The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer (facelift, introduced in 2012) 1.7 CDTI, equipped with the Ecotec start/stop system and producing 130 horsepower, represented a significant offering in the European compact station wagon segment. Produced from 2012 through 2014, this variant occupied a middle ground within the Astra J Sports Tourer lineup, balancing fuel efficiency with reasonable performance. It was positioned as a practical and economical choice for families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle. The Astra J generation, built on the GM Delta platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), aimed to improve upon its predecessor with enhanced refinement, technology, and a more contemporary design.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J Sports Tourer (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTI (130 Hp) Ecotec start/stop |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 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) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A17DTF |
| 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt, 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt, 6.25 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 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) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4698 mm (184.96 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1831 mm (72.09 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2013 mm (79.25 in.) |
| Height | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra Sports Tourer is the A17DTF engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Opel/Vauxhall’s Ecotec family, known for its focus on efficiency and reduced emissions. The A17DTF utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure. This, combined with a variable geometry turbocharger and intercooler, allows for a good balance of power and torque. The engine produces 130 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a more substantial 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 2500 rpm. The start/stop system, a key feature of this variant, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to further improve fuel economy. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement. While an automatic transmission was offered on other Astra J models, it wasn’t typically paired with this specific 1.7 CDTI engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7 CDTI with the manual gearbox provides a reasonably responsive driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the 300 Nm of torque provides ample pulling power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal torque band. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 10.9 seconds, which is typical for a diesel-powered compact wagon. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 CDTI variants, this 1.7 CDTI feels less urgent, but it offers significantly better fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over outright acceleration. The suspension setup is geared towards comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, although it may exhibit some body roll during spirited cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CDTI Sports Tourer typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Enjoy’ or ‘Cosmo’, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, automatic climate control, and a more comprehensive 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 Sports Tourer body style itself offered a significant advantage in terms of cargo space, with 500 liters (17.66 cu ft) of space with the rear seats up and 1550 liters (54.74 cu ft) with them folded down.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J Sports Tourer utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are typically drum brakes on this variant, a cost-saving measure compared to the disc brakes found on higher-spec models. The electric power steering provides a light and easy steering feel, making it well-suited for urban driving. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical choice. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, with combined fuel consumption figures of around 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg). Compared to the more powerful 2.0 CDTI variants, the 1.7 CDTI offered a lower purchase price and lower running costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to competitors like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Estate, the Astra J Sports Tourer offered a competitive level of equipment and practicality.
Legacy
The A17DTF engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Proper servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are crucial to prevent DPF issues. The Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI remains a relatively affordable option on the used car market. Its fuel efficiency and practicality continue to make it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and economical station wagon. While not a particularly exciting vehicle to drive, it represents a solid and dependable choice for everyday transportation.
