The Vauxhall Astra Mk V CC 1.8, produced between 2004 and 2009, represented a key offering within the broader Astra Mk V (H) range. Positioned as a mid-range option, this variant combined a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine with a five-speed manual transmission, aiming to provide a balance of performance and affordability for the UK and European markets. The “CC” designation signified a Comfort/Club trim level, offering a step up in features compared to the base models. This generation Astra, built on the GM Delta platform, was a significant model for Vauxhall, aiming to compete directly with established rivals like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk V CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg, 27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 185 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 103.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 3800 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z18XE |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.2 mm (3.47 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1203 kg (2652.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max load | 557 kg (1227.97 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 |
| 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 1.8 was the Z18XE engine, an 1796cc inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine was a mainstay of Vauxhall/Opel’s lineup for several years, known for its relative simplicity and durability. It featured a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allowed for reasonable power output and efficient combustion. The Z18XE produced 125 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts and contributed to the car’s overall driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel economy, prioritizing usability over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8-liter engine, paired with the manual transmission, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.5 seconds, and the top speed was approximately 116.82 mph. While not a particularly sporty setup, it offered sufficient power for overtaking and merging onto highways. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter Turbo or the diesel variants, the 1.8 felt less responsive, particularly at higher speeds. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to better handling and a more balanced feel in corners. The five-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s powerband, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal rev range for most driving situations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra Mk V CC 1.8 typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. The “CC” trim level added features like alloy wheels, body-colored bumpers and door handles, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Mk V CC 1.8 utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The car rode on 205/55 R16 tires, providing a good balance of grip and comfort. The steering was precise and responsive, making the car easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Mk V CC 1.8 was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable family car. It offered a good balance of features, performance, and fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the more powerful variants. Compared to the 2.0-liter Turbo, the 1.8 offered significantly lower performance but also better fuel economy and lower running costs. The diesel variants provided even better fuel economy but were generally more expensive to purchase and maintain. The Astra Mk V CC 1.8 represented a sensible choice for buyers looking for a reliable and economical hatchback.
Legacy
The Z18XE engine, found in the Astra Mk V CC 1.8, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While not without its potential issues (such as occasional oil leaks and timing chain wear), it is generally considered a durable engine when properly maintained. Today, these Astras are readily available on the used car market at affordable prices. They represent a good value for buyers looking for a practical and economical car, although potential buyers should be aware of the age-related issues that may arise with any older vehicle. The Astra Mk V CC 1.8 remains a popular choice for first-time drivers and those seeking a dependable and affordable mode of transportation.
