The Vauxhall Astra Mk VI Sports Tourer 1.4 VVT (120 hp) was a popular estate car produced between 2010 and 2015. Part of the Astra J generation (internally designated as A04), the Sports Tourer – Vauxhall’s name for its station wagon – aimed to provide practicality and fuel efficiency within the competitive European C-segment. This particular variant, powered by the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine and paired with a six-speed manual transmission, occupied a mid-range position in the Astra Sports Tourer lineup, offering a balance between performance and running costs. It was marketed towards families and individuals needing a versatile vehicle without the expense of higher-powered models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VI Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 VVT (120 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) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 144 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 4800 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A14NEL |
| Engine displacement | 1398 cm3 (85.31 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 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.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2013 mm (79.25 in.) |
| Height | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 117 mm (4.61 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE to Front Wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual 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 | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra variant is the A14NEL 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine belongs to Vauxhall/Opel’s family of small-displacement, turbocharged petrol engines. It features direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The engine also utilizes a variable valve timing (VVT) system, optimizing valve timing for different engine speeds and loads. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a boost in power and torque, compensating for the relatively small engine displacement. The six-speed manual transmission was a common pairing, offering drivers good control over the engine’s power band. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, with a relatively long sixth gear for efficient cruising on highways.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 hp Astra Sports Tourer with the manual transmission offered a reasonably engaging driving experience. While not particularly quick – 0-60 mph in around 10.6 seconds – the turbocharger provided a noticeable surge of power in the mid-range, making overtaking maneuvers manageable. The manual gearbox allowed for precise control, and the relatively light weight of the vehicle (around 3071 lbs) contributed to a feeling of agility. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter turbo or diesel variants, this 1.4-liter model felt less stressed during everyday driving, and the fuel economy benefits were significant. However, drivers seeking more spirited performance would likely find it lacking compared to its more potent siblings.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 VVT Sports Tourer typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system with auxiliary input, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as Tech Line or SE, added features like automatic climate control, parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded upholstery. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, satellite navigation, and leather seats.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Sports Tourer utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Electric power steering provided a light and responsive feel. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, making it well-suited for long journeys and everyday driving. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.4 VVT Astra Sports Tourer was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical estate car. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.6-liter turbo, the 1.4 offered lower running costs but less performance. The diesel variants, while more expensive to purchase, provided even better fuel economy and torque. The 1.4 VVT appealed to buyers who prioritized value for money and practicality over outright performance.
Legacy
The A14NEL engine proved to be generally reliable, although like any turbocharged engine, it required regular maintenance and quality oil changes. The Astra J Sports Tourer, as a whole, has established a reputation as a dependable and affordable used car. The 1.4 VVT variant remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and economical estate car. While not the most exciting model in the lineup, its balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability has ensured its continued presence on the used car market.
