Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VI Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTI (110 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) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.8 kg/Hp, 56.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 132.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 2550 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 2550 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A17DTJ |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 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 track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The Vauxhall Astra Mk VI Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI, produced from 2010 to 2015, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient station wagon within the Astra J (Mk VI) lineup. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it aimed to provide the versatility of an estate car combined with the economy of a diesel engine. This variant, powered by the A17DTJ engine producing 110 horsepower, was a common sight on European roads, offering a balance between running costs and everyday usability. The Sports Tourer body style, essentially the wagon version of the Astra, aimed to provide increased cargo capacity without sacrificing the Astra’s relatively compact footprint.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI is the A17DTJ engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine belongs to the A17D family developed by GM/Opel, and was widely used across various Vauxhall and Opel models. It features a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, mitigating the typical lag associated with smaller displacement diesel engines. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its relatively efficient power output. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The gear ratios were tuned for maximizing fuel efficiency during highway cruising, while still offering adequate acceleration for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque produced by the 1.7 CDTI engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.4 seconds, making it suitable for commuting and general transportation. The engine’s torque peak at 2550 rpm meant that usable power was readily available from low engine speeds, making it easy to drive in urban environments. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 Turbo petrol or 2.0 CDTI diesel variants, the 1.7 CDTI felt noticeably less responsive, particularly when overtaking or climbing hills. However, the manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain control and extract the most from the engine’s powerband. The Sports Tourer’s suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, although it wasn’t particularly sporty in handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CDTI Sports Tourer typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system, 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. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was typical of the Astra J, with a clear instrument cluster and logically arranged controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Mk VI Sports Tourer utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good compromise between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The electric power steering provided light and precise steering feel. The 17-inch alloy wheels, often fitted to this trim level, were paired with 215/50 R17 tires, offering a good balance between grip and rolling resistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical family car. Its fuel economy of around 52.3 US mpg combined was a major selling point. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, the 1.7 CDTI offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. The manual transmission was praised for its smooth operation and precise shift quality. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, a common problem with modern diesel engines. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Estate, the Astra offered a competitive package in terms of price, fuel economy, and practicality.
Legacy
The A17DTJ engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be a relatively durable and reliable unit when properly maintained. Today, used Astra Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI models represent an affordable and economical option for buyers seeking a practical family car. Regular servicing, including oil changes and DPF maintenance, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. The Astra J Sports Tourer, in general, has established itself as a sensible and dependable choice in the used car market, offering a good balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability.
