The Vauxhall Astra Mk V CC 1.7 CDTi, produced between 2004 and 2009, represented an entry-level diesel option within the broader Astra Mk V (H) range, known internally as the H-platform. This five-door hatchback aimed to provide fuel efficiency and practicality for the European market, particularly appealing to buyers seeking lower running costs. The “CC” designation signified the coupe-cabriolet body style, though this variant was primarily a traditional hatchback. Positioned as a more affordable alternative to the petrol-powered models and higher-output diesel variants, the 1.7 CDTi offered a balance between economy and usability, though with a noticeable compromise in outright performance. It was a key model in Vauxhall’s lineup during a period of increasing diesel popularity in Europe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk V CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTi (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 135 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.2 kg/Hp, 75.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 182.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 2300 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z17DTH |
| 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 | 18.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1317 kg (2903.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1855 kg (4089.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 538 kg (1186.09 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1270 l (44.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4249 mm (167.28 in.) |
| Width | 1753 mm (69.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2033 mm (80.04 in.) |
| Height | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2614 mm (102.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra Mk V CC 1.7 CDTi was the Z17DTH engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine belonged to Vauxhall/Opel’s family of common-rail direct injection diesels. The Z17DTH featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The common-rail system, supplied by Bosch, allowed for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The engine utilized four valves per cylinder and a single overhead camshaft. The 100 horsepower output was achieved at 4400 rpm, while peak torque of 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) was available from 2300 rpm. This torque curve provided reasonable low-end grunt for everyday driving. The engine was typically paired with a five-speed manual transmission, although a four-speed automatic was also available, albeit less common. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, did impact fuel economy and acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7 CDTi-equipped Astra Mk V CC offered a decidedly economy-focused driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for merging onto highways and overtaking, but it wasn’t a particularly quick car. The 0-60 mph time of around 10.9 seconds reflects this. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to make the most of the available power, while the automatic version felt somewhat sluggish, particularly when attempting quicker maneuvers. The engine was relatively quiet for a diesel, but the characteristic diesel clatter was still noticeable, especially during cold starts. The suspension provided a comfortable ride, prioritizing smoothness over sporty handling. Compared to the more powerful 1.9 CDTi variants, the 1.7 CDTi felt significantly less responsive, but it offered a noticeable improvement in fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra Mk V CC 1.7 CDTi typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included central locking, electric front windows, a basic audio system, and driver and passenger airbags. Higher trim levels, such as Life, Design, and Sport, added features like alloy wheels, air conditioning, a CD player, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included parking sensors, a sunroof, and leather upholstery. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. The overall interior design was typical of early 2000s European hatchbacks – practical and durable, but not particularly luxurious.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Mk V CC utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The braking system was adequate for the car’s weight and performance, but it wasn’t particularly powerful. The standard tire size was 205/55 R16. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Mk V CC 1.7 CDTi was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. It was praised for its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but criticized for its lack of outright performance. Compared to the 1.9 CDTi models, the 1.7 CDTi offered significantly lower fuel consumption but at the expense of power and responsiveness. The petrol-powered Astra models offered a more refined driving experience, but they were less fuel-efficient. The 1.7 CDTi appealed to buyers who prioritized economy and practicality over performance.
Legacy
The Z17DTH engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be relatively reliable. Common issues included turbocharger failure and problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), particularly on cars that were primarily used for short journeys. However, with regular maintenance, these engines could provide many years of service. Today, the Astra Mk V CC 1.7 CDTi can be found on the used car market at very affordable prices. It remains a viable option for buyers seeking a cheap and economical hatchback, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and the importance of regular servicing.
