The Vauxhall Astra Mk V CC 1.8 VVT 16V Automatic, produced between 2004 and 2009, represented a mid-range offering within the broader Astra Mk V (H) generation, known internally as the H-platform. This five-door hatchback aimed to provide a balance between performance, fuel economy, and comfort for the UK and European markets. Positioned above the entry-level 1.4L models and below the more potent 2.0L Turbo variants, the 1.8L automatic catered to buyers seeking a refined driving experience without sacrificing practicality. The “CC” designation signified a comfort and convenience focused trim level.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk V CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 VVT 16V (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 187 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 141.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 3800 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z18XER |
| 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 capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1235 kg (2722.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs.) |
| Max load | 755 kg (1664.49 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 | 4 gears, automatic 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 VVT was the Z18XER engine, a 1.8-liter (1796 cc) inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine belonged to the Ecotec family, known for its relatively lightweight construction and use of dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The “VVT” designation indicates Variable Valve Timing, a technology employed to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. The Z18XER utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine produced 140 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth, if not particularly sporty, gear changes. This transmission was a conventional hydraulic automatic, lacking the more advanced features found in later transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8L automatic Astra offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.8 seconds, making it adequate for everyday driving but not particularly quick. The four-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or a more modern automatic with additional gears. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and comfort rather than outright performance. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic suffered a slight performance penalty due to the transmission’s inherent inefficiencies. The 1.8L also felt noticeably less powerful than the 2.0L Turbo models, which offered significantly more torque and quicker acceleration. However, it provided a more refined and less stressed driving experience than the lower-powered 1.4L variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra Mk V CC 1.8 VVT Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a CD player, and alloy wheels. The “CC” trim level emphasized comfort, often including features like upgraded upholstery and a more comprehensive infotainment system. Optional extras available for this trim included a sunroof, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with the option of leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Mk V CC 1.8 Automatic featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in a relatively soft ride. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering, though the effect was less pronounced than on the sportier Astra variants.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Mk V CC 1.8 VVT Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and comfortable family hatchback. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for its class, averaging around 30.2 US mpg in combined driving. However, some reviewers noted that the four-speed automatic transmission felt dated compared to the more advanced transmissions offered by competitors. Compared to the 1.4L models, the 1.8L offered a noticeable performance improvement, while remaining more affordable than the 2.0L Turbo variants. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the electronic throttle control system.
Legacy
The Z18XER engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. The four-speed automatic transmission, however, is often considered the weak link in the powertrain. Today, used Astra Mk V CC 1.8 Automatic models are relatively affordable and represent a good value for buyers seeking a practical and comfortable hatchback. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, although sourcing parts for the older automatic transmission can sometimes be challenging. The car’s simplicity and relatively robust construction contribute to its continued presence on the used car market.
