The Vauxhall Astra Mk VI Sports Tourer 1.3 CDTI, produced from 2010 to 2015, represented an entry-level diesel option within the broader Astra J (Mk VI) Sports Tourer lineup. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical estate car, it catered to buyers prioritizing economy and space over outright performance. This variant utilized a small-displacement turbocharged diesel engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission, making it a common sight on European roads. It was part of the A3/1HX0 platform generation, sharing components with other Opel/Vauxhall and Fiat models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VI Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 CDTI (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 174 km/h (108.12 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.7 kg/Hp, 68.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1750 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A13DTE |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1393 kg (3071.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 567 kg (1250.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 4698 mm (184.96 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Height | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra Sports Tourer is the A13DTE engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of the Fiat-developed Multijet family, licensed to General Motors for use in various European models. It features a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances power output. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow. The five-speed manual transmission was a standard offering, providing a relatively long gearing setup geared towards fuel economy rather than rapid acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 CDTI engine, producing 95 horsepower and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque, provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 13.9 seconds, and top speed was limited to 108 mph. The engine’s torque peak at 1750 rpm meant that it felt reasonably responsive in everyday driving situations, particularly for overtaking at lower speeds. However, the long gearing of the five-speed manual transmission meant that the engine could feel strained when climbing hills or carrying a full load. Compared to the 1.7 CDTI or the more powerful 2.0 CDTI variants, this 1.3-liter engine offered significantly less performance, but it excelled in fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 CDTI Sports Tourer typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on practicality. Standard features included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Excite’ or ‘Sportive’, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Optional extras included parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, and a more advanced infotainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Sports Tourer’s chassis featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The suspension was tuned for comfort and load-carrying capacity, reflecting the car’s estate body style.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.3 CDTI Sports Tourer was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical estate car. Its fuel economy figures – around 57.4 US mpg combined – were a major selling point. However, its relatively slow acceleration and lack of refinement compared to more expensive trims were noted. Compared to the 1.7 CDTI, the 1.3 offered better fuel economy but less power. The 2.0 CDTI provided significantly more performance but at the cost of increased fuel consumption and higher running costs. The 1.3 CDTI appealed to buyers who prioritized economy and practicality over driving excitement.
Legacy
The A13DTE engine, while not known for being particularly robust, proved to be generally reliable with regular maintenance. Common issues included turbocharger failure and problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), particularly on cars that were primarily used for short journeys. Today, the Astra Mk VI Sports Tourer 1.3 CDTI represents an affordable and economical used car option. Its fuel efficiency and spacious interior continue to appeal to buyers looking for a practical estate car. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure that the car has been properly maintained.
