The Vauxhall Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer 1.6 EcoTec (200 hp) start&stop, produced from 2015 to 2019, represents a significant offering within the seventh generation of the Astra series, known as the ‘J’ generation. This variant, a practical station wagon (estate) body style, aimed to combine fuel efficiency with a respectable level of performance. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level within the Sports Tourer range, it catered to buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle with a more engaging driving experience than the lower-powered engine options. It was a key model for Vauxhall in the UK and European markets, competing with rivals like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Estate.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 EcoTec (200 Hp) start&stop |
| 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) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 142 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp, 151.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 4700-5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 125.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1700-4700 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1700-4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B16SHT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.5 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1318 kg (2905.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 642 kg (1415.37 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 680 kg (1499.14 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Astra Sports Tourer 1.6 EcoTec is the B16SHT engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Vauxhall/Opel’s ‘EcoTec’ family, designed for efficiency and reduced emissions. It features direct fuel injection, which precisely meters fuel into the combustion chamber, improving combustion efficiency and reducing knock. The engine utilizes a single-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The valvetrain employs variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust sides, optimizing engine performance across the rev range. The 200 hp output is achieved through careful calibration of the engine management system. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The start&stop system further enhances fuel economy by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
Driving Characteristics
The 200 hp 1.6 EcoTec engine provides a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered Astra Sports Tourer variants. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.3 seconds, making it a relatively quick estate car. The turbocharger provides a good amount of low-end torque, making it responsive in everyday driving situations. However, the peak torque of 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) is available from 1700-4700 rpm, meaning the engine needs to be revved slightly to access its full potential. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, offering precise shifts and allowing the driver to maintain optimal engine speed. Compared to the 1.4L turbo or diesel variants, this 1.6L offers a more spirited driving experience, but at the cost of slightly higher fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 EcoTec Sports Tourer typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like heated seats, parking sensors, a navigation system, and upgraded upholstery. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Sports Tourer utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The suspension was tuned to offer a slightly firmer ride than the standard Astra, reflecting the higher performance of the 1.6 EcoTec engine. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) are standard features, enhancing safety and stability. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Sports Tourer 1.6 EcoTec (200 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its combination of performance, practicality, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be a little noisy under hard acceleration. Compared to the 1.4L turbo variant, the 1.6L offered more power but slightly lower fuel economy. The diesel variants provided even better fuel economy but lacked the responsiveness of the gasoline engine. In terms of reliability, the EcoTec engines have proven to be generally reliable, although some owners have reported issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The Vauxhall Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer 1.6 EcoTec (200 hp) remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of practicality, performance, and relatively low running costs makes it an attractive option for families and individuals alike. The engine, while not without its potential issues, is generally considered to be durable and reliable. Parts availability is good, and maintenance costs are reasonable. As a well-rounded and versatile estate car, the Astra Sports Tourer 1.6 EcoTec continues to offer good value for money.
