The Vauxhall Astra Mk VI CC 1.6 Ecotec (115 hp) Automatic, produced between 2009 and 2015, represented a key entry point into the Astra range for buyers seeking a comfortable and economical hatchback. Part of the Astra J generation (internally designated as the Mk VI CC), this variant aimed to balance affordability with practicality, offering a convenient automatic transmission option. It occupied the lower-mid range of the lineup, positioned below the more powerful petrol and diesel variants, and above the base-level trims. The “CC” designation signified a coupe-cabriolet body style, though this model was primarily sold as a five-door hatchback.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VI CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Ecotec (115 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 165 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp, 88.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm, 118.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72 Hp/l |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A16XER |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1305 kg (2877.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1235 l (43.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1020 kg (2248.72 lbs.) |
| Length | 4419 mm (173.98 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2013 mm (79.25 in.) |
| Height | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra variant is the 1.6-liter (1598 cc) A16XER inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine belongs to Vauxhall/Opel’s Ecotec family, known for its focus on fuel efficiency and refinement. The A16XER utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration helps optimize breathing and contributes to the engine’s power output. The engine produces 115 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and enhancing driving convenience. This transmission was a common choice for drivers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Ecotec Automatic Astra delivers a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.3 seconds, and top speed is rated at 113.71 mph. The automatic transmission, while convenient, does slightly diminish the engine’s responsiveness compared to the manual gearbox options. Gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine can feel somewhat strained during brisk acceleration or when climbing hills. However, for everyday commuting and relaxed cruising, the powertrain provides adequate performance. The steering is light and precise, making the Astra easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Ecotec Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio stereo system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as Excite or Tech Line, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for more premium materials available on higher-spec models. Optional extras could include parking sensors, a sunroof, and a more advanced infotainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Mk VI CC features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The Astra’s chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to its fuel efficiency and agility. Electric power steering provides a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 Ecotec Automatic Astra was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable family car. It offered a good level of equipment for the price and was praised for its comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked outright punch and that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times. Compared to the 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol or the 1.7-liter diesel variants, the 1.6 Ecotec Automatic offered less performance but typically better fuel economy than the turbo petrol and lower maintenance costs than the diesel. It appealed to buyers who prioritized comfort and convenience over sporty driving dynamics.
Legacy
The A16XER engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to timing chain wear, particularly if oil changes are neglected. The automatic transmission, if properly maintained, is also considered relatively durable. Today, the Astra Mk VI CC 1.6 Ecotec Automatic represents an affordable and practical used car option. Its relatively simple mechanicals and readily available parts make it a relatively easy car to maintain. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential timing chain issue and ensure that the car has been regularly serviced.
