The Vauxhall Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer 1.4 EcoTec (125 hp) was a popular estate car produced between 2015 and 2019. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the seventh-generation Astra (designated ‘J’ internally by Opel/Vauxhall, and built on the GM Delta platform), it aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and reasonable performance for family buyers. This variant represented a key part of the Sports Tourer lineup, offering a more accessible entry point compared to higher-powered engine options like the 1.6 CDTi diesel or the more potent 1.4T versions. It was marketed towards those prioritizing economy and space over outright speed.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 EcoTec (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 130 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 100.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 4000-5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (180.7 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B14XFL |
| Engine displacement | 1399 cm3 (85.37 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.3 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1247 kg (2749.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1890 kg (4166.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 643 kg (1417.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1630 l (57.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal | 10.56 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1403 kg (3093.09 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Length | 4702 mm (185.12 in.) |
| Width | 1809 mm (71.22 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1871 mm (73.66 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2042 mm (80.39 in.) |
| Height | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1548 mm (60.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Front overhang | 960 mm (37.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1080 mm (42.52 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.05 m (36.25 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, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra variant is the 1.4-liter (1399cc) B14XFL inline-four cylinder engine. This engine belongs to the ‘EcoTec’ family developed by Opel/Vauxhall, emphasizing efficiency and reduced emissions. It features direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler, allowing for a good balance of power and fuel economy. The B14XFL engine produces 125 horsepower at 4000-5600 rpm and 245 Nm (180.7 lb-ft) of torque between 2000-3500 rpm. The engine utilizes a timing chain, intended to reduce maintenance compared to timing belts. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement. While an automatic transmission was available on other Astra trims, it wasn’t offered with this specific 125 hp engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 EcoTec (125 hp) Sports Tourer offers a comfortable and practical driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.1 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t provide particularly sporty performance. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, but the engine doesn’t feel overly stressed. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, offering precise shifts and allowing the driver to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.4T versions, this variant feels less eager to rev and requires more gear changes to maintain speed, especially when loaded. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces, although it can feel slightly soft in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 EcoTec (125 hp) Sports Tourer typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Tech Line’ or ‘Energy,’ added features like a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over stylistic flair.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Sports Tourer utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Brakes are disc brakes all around, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. Steering is rack and pinion, offering precise and responsive control. The weight distribution is fairly balanced, contributing to stable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Sports Tourer 1.4 EcoTec (125 hp) was generally well-received by automotive 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 underpowered, especially when the car was fully loaded. Compared to the 1.6 CDTi diesel, the 1.4 EcoTec offered less torque and slightly lower fuel economy, but it was quieter and smoother. Against the more powerful 1.4T petrol versions, it provided a more affordable entry point into the Astra Sports Tourer range, albeit with a noticeable performance deficit.
Legacy
The B14XFL engine, while not known for being exceptionally robust, has proven to be reasonably reliable in the Astra Sports Tourer. Common issues include occasional turbocharger problems and potential oil leaks. However, with regular maintenance, these engines can provide many years of service. On the used car market, the 1.4 EcoTec (125 hp) Sports Tourer represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and economical estate car. Its lower purchase price and reasonable running costs make it an attractive option for families and individuals who prioritize affordability and fuel efficiency over outright performance.
