The Vauxhall Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer (facelift 2019) 1.2 Turbo, producing 110 horsepower, represents a key variant within the seventh generation of the Astra, specifically the station wagon (estate) body style. Introduced with the 2019 facelift, this model ran through November 2021. It occupied a mid-range position in the Astra lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability. The Sports Tourer, as the estate version is known, aimed to provide family-oriented buyers with a more spacious alternative to the hatchback, while maintaining the Astra’s reputation for competent handling and modern features. This variant was primarily marketed in Europe, where station wagons retain significant popularity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 Turbo (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | November, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.3-5.6 l/100 km (44.4 – 42 US mpg, 53.3 – 50.4 UK mpg, 18.9 – 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 102 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (143.82 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F12SHL |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Max. weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 660 kg (1455.05 lbs.) |
| Length | 4702 mm (185.12 in.) |
| Width | 1809 mm (71.22 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2042 mm (80.39 in.) |
| Height | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front overhang | 960 mm (37.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1080 mm (42.52 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.25 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 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 suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 276 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 264 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra variant is the F12SHL, a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine belongs to Vauxhall/Opel’s Small Engine Family (SEF), known for its compact design and efficiency. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. It also features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing engine performance across a wider RPM range. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a boost in power and torque, compensating for the relatively small displacement. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance of fuel economy and acceptable acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 Turbo 110 hp engine, when coupled with the manual transmission, provides adequate performance for everyday driving. While not a particularly sporty setup, it offers sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 10.5 seconds. The turbocharger does introduce a slight amount of turbo lag, but the engine delivers a usable amount of torque from around 2000 rpm, making it relatively easy to drive in urban environments. Compared to higher-output Astra variants, such as those with larger engines, this version feels less responsive. However, it excels in fuel economy, offering a significant advantage over more powerful options. The manual gearbox is generally well-matched to the engine, providing smooth and precise shifts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 Turbo 110 hp Sports Tourer typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Tech Line’ or ‘Elite’, added features like automatic climate control, parking sensors, a rearview camera, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. Dashboard configuration was consistent across the range, featuring a modern design with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Sports Tourer utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, measuring 276mm in diameter, while the rear brakes are solid discs, measuring 264mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.2 Turbo 110 hp Astra Sports Tourer was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical choice. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.5-liter diesel variants, the 1.2 Turbo offered a smoother and quieter driving experience, but with slightly lower fuel economy. Against the more powerful gasoline engines, it provided a more affordable entry point into the Astra range, albeit with reduced performance. Reliability reports suggest that the F12SHL engine is generally robust, although regular servicing is essential to maintain optimal performance.
Legacy
The F12SHL engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain, and examples of the 1.2 Turbo Astra Sports Tourer continue to appear on the used car market. While not a performance icon, this variant represents a sensible and practical choice for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and spacious estate car. Its relatively simple engine design and readily available parts contribute to reasonable maintenance costs. The Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer, in general, has established a reputation as a well-rounded and dependable vehicle, and the 1.2 Turbo 110 hp variant remains a viable option for those seeking an affordable and practical family car.
