The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI, producing 125 horsepower, was a popular variant of Opel’s Astra J series, specifically the station wagon (estate) body style. Introduced in 2010 and remaining in production through 2012, this model occupied a key position in the Astra J lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, practicality, and reasonable performance. It was primarily marketed in Europe as an alternative to traditional hatchbacks, catering to buyers needing increased cargo capacity. The Astra J generation (2009-2015) represented a significant step forward for Opel in terms of design, technology, and overall refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTI (125 Hp) |
| 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) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 89.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 2300 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A17DTR |
| Engine displacement | 1686 cm3 (102.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1393 kg (3071.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 567 kg (1250.02 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 | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 the Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI was the A17DTR engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was part of Opel/Vauxhall’s family of small-displacement diesel engines, known for their fuel efficiency and relatively low emissions. The A17DTR featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure. This, combined with a turbocharger and intercooler, allowed for a good balance of power and economy. The engine utilized a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a good spread of gears for both city driving and highway cruising. The engine oil capacity was 5.4 liters, and it required a specific oil specification to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Driving Characteristics
The 125 hp and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.7 CDTI engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.1 seconds, and top speed was approximately 119 mph. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter Turbo petrol or the 2.0-liter CDTI diesel variants, the 1.7 CDTI felt noticeably less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the engine’s torque delivery was strong from low RPMs, making it well-suited for everyday driving and hauling loads. The manual transmission offered precise shifts, and the gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s characteristics. Fuel economy was a major strength, with combined figures around 52.3 US mpg, making it an attractive option for drivers prioritizing efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CDTI Sports Tourer typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Enjoy’ and ‘Cosmo’, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, automatic climate control, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Optional extras included parking sensors, a sunroof, and a navigation system. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with clear instrumentation and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J Sports Tourer featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The 1.7 CDTI variant, being one of the lighter engine options, generally benefited from slightly more agile handling compared to the heavier diesel models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its more powerful counterparts. Compared to the 1.6 Turbo petrol, the 1.7 CDTI offered significantly better fuel economy but less performance. The 2.0 CDTI diesel provided more power and torque but at the expense of fuel efficiency and increased running costs. The 1.7 CDTI appealed to buyers seeking a cost-effective and practical estate car for everyday use.
Legacy
The A17DTR engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not properly maintained. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are crucial for preventing DPF blockages. The Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for those seeking a fuel-efficient and spacious estate car. Its relatively simple mechanicals and readily available parts contribute to its affordability and ease of maintenance. While not a performance icon, the 1.7 CDTI variant represents a sensible and practical option within the Astra J lineup.
