The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer 1.4 Turbo (140 hp) Automatic, produced between 2010 and 2012, represents a key variant within the broader Astra J series, Opel’s compact family car. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the Sports Tourer (estate/wagon) body style, this model aimed to balance fuel efficiency with reasonable performance and practicality. It was a significant vehicle for Opel, particularly in European markets, where the Astra consistently ranked among the best-selling vehicles in its class. The Astra J generation (2009-2015) was built on the GM Delta II platform, also known internally as the 1HX0/A3 platform, and the Sports Tourer variant expanded the Astra’s appeal to buyers needing increased cargo capacity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 Turbo (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 146 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4900-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1850-4900 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1850-4900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A14NET |
| Engine displacement | 1398 cm3 (85.31 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 4698 mm (184.96 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2013 mm (79.25 in.) |
| Height | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Front overhang | 974 mm (38.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1039 mm (40.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 109 mm (4.29 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra J Sports Tourer is the A14NET engine, a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Opel/Vauxhall’s family of small-displacement, direct-injection turbocharged engines. The A14NET utilizes multi-port fuel injection, a slightly older technology compared to direct injection found in some later iterations of this engine family. It produces 140 horsepower at 4900-6000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque between 1850 and 4900 rpm. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a noticeable boost in power compared to naturally aspirated 1.4-liter engines. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with the A14NET is a six-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts but prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. This transmission isn’t known for particularly quick gear changes, but it’s generally reliable.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 Turbo Automatic Astra J Sports Tourer delivers a comfortable and generally refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.1 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly sporty performance. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving style, but can feel somewhat hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The turbocharger provides a useful surge of power in the mid-range, making highway cruising relatively effortless. Compared to the 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine offered in some Astra J models, the 1.4 Turbo provides significantly more torque and a more responsive feel. However, it lacks the outright punch of the 1.6 Turbo or the diesel variants. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can sometimes feel strained when climbing hills or carrying a full load.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Turbo Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system with auxiliary input, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, often denoted by names like ‘Sport’ or ‘SE’, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, automatic headlights and rain sensors, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather available on higher-spec models. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, satellite navigation, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J Sports Tourer utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and easy driving experience. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra J Sports Tourer 1.4 Turbo Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient family car. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and decent fuel economy (around 34.6 US mpg combined). However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times and that the engine lacked the excitement of some of its rivals. Compared to the 1.6-liter petrol and 1.7/2.0-liter diesel variants, the 1.4 Turbo Automatic offered a compromise between performance and economy. The diesel models provided superior fuel economy and torque, while the 1.6 Turbo offered more spirited acceleration.
Legacy
The A14NET engine, while generally reliable, is known to have some potential issues with oil consumption in higher mileage examples. Regular oil level checks are recommended. The six-speed automatic transmission is also generally durable, but requires regular servicing to ensure smooth operation. Today, the Astra J Sports Tourer 1.4 Turbo Automatic represents a relatively affordable and practical used car option. Its fuel efficiency and spaciousness make it a good choice for families or individuals needing a versatile vehicle. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are reasonable, making it a sensible choice in the used car market.
