Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk V Estate |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTi (80 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 132 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 | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.1 kg/Hp, 62 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm, 131 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 47.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 169 Nm @ 1800 rpm (124.65 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z17DTL |
| 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 | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1905 kg (4199.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 615 kg (1355.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4515 mm (177.76 in.) |
| Width | 1753 mm (69.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2033 mm (80.04 in.) |
| Height | 1496 mm (58.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2703 mm (106.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 871 mm (34.29 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 941 mm (37.05 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 | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Vauxhall Astra Mk V Estate 1.7 CDTi, produced from 2004 to 2011, was a popular choice in the British market, representing an entry-level option within the Mk V Estate range. It was designed for buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and practicality over outright performance. Built on the GM Delta platform – shared with Opel/Vauxhall and Chevrolet models – this variant offered a significant improvement in interior space and refinement compared to the previous generation Astra Estate. It filled a crucial niche, providing the versatility of an estate car at a more accessible price point than the more powerful petrol or diesel alternatives.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Astra Estate 1.7 CDTi’s engine is the Z17DTL, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of a family of diesel engines developed by Isuzu and widely used by General Motors in Europe. It employs a common rail direct injection system, injecting fuel at very high pressure to enhance combustion efficiency and reduce emissions. A turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, boosts power output despite the engine’s relatively small displacement. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a single overhead camshaft. The 80 horsepower peak is reached at 4400 rpm, while maximum torque of 169 Nm (124.65 lb-ft) is available from a low 1800 rpm, emphasizing low-end power for everyday driving. The engine is mounted transversely at the front of the vehicle. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard, chosen for its simplicity and contribution to fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7 CDTi 80 hp Astra Estate wasn’t built for performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 11.1 seconds, and the top speed was around 111.85 mph. However, the engine’s strong low-end torque made it suitable for daily commutes and carrying loads. The gear ratios were geared towards fuel economy, which meant the engine could feel strained when pushed. Compared to the 1.9 CDTi versions, which offered considerably more power, this variant felt noticeably slower, especially when carrying a full load. The manual transmission provided a direct connection to the engine, but the shift quality wasn’t particularly sporty. The overall driving experience prioritized comfort and economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CDTi typically represented the base trim level for the Astra Estate. Standard features usually included central locking, electric front windows, a basic audio system, and ABS brakes. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard design was functional but not luxurious. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, climate control, and rear electric windows. The interior ambiance was practical and durable, rather than opulent.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Mk V Estate used a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup offered a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to minimize body roll during cornering. The relatively light weight of the 1.7 CDTi variant helped to offset the limitations of the torsion beam rear suspension.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Mk V Estate 1.7 CDTi was well-received by buyers looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient estate car. Reviewers praised its practicality, spacious interior, and low running costs. However, the engine’s lack of power was often mentioned. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, the 1.7 CDTi offered lower performance but also better fuel economy and lower insurance costs. It competed with other mainstream estate cars like the Ford Focus Estate and Peugeot 307 SW.
Legacy
The Z17DTL engine, while not known for being particularly exciting, proved to be reasonably reliable. Common issues included turbocharger failure and problems with the fuel injection system, but these weren’t widespread. Today, the Astra Mk V Estate 1.7 CDTi is a very affordable used car option. Its fuel efficiency and practicality continue to appeal to budget-conscious buyers. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively low, making it a sensible choice for those seeking a dependable and economical estate car.
