The Vauxhall Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer (facelift 2019) 1.2 Turbo, producing 130 horsepower, represents a significant iteration within the Astra lineup. Introduced in 2019 and continuing through November 2021, this variant occupied a middle-ground position, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, practicality, and reasonable performance for the European market. It was built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, shared with other Stellantis/PSA group vehicles. This station wagon (estate) body style aimed to provide family-oriented buyers with increased cargo capacity compared to the hatchback version, while maintaining the Astra’s core values of affordability and everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 Turbo (130 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 | 216 km/h (134.22 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F12SHT |
| 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%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 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 F12SHT engine, a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine. This engine belongs to Vauxhall/Opel’s Small Engine Family (SEF), known for its compact size and efficiency. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. A single turbocharger with an intercooler provides forced induction, boosting power output. The engine features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance across the rev range. The 130 horsepower output is achieved at 5500 rpm, while peak torque of 225 Nm (165.95 lb.-ft.) is available from 2000 to 3500 rpm. This engine was paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 Turbo 130 hp engine, coupled with the six-speed manual gearbox, provided a reasonably responsive driving experience. While not a performance-oriented variant, it offered sufficient power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, but the three-cylinder engine lacks the smoothness of a four-cylinder unit. The manual transmission allows for driver engagement and control, but the gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration. Compared to higher-output Astra variants, such as those with larger engines, this version felt less eager to rev and had a more modest acceleration profile. However, it offered a more economical and refined driving experience than lower-powered versions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 Turbo 130 hp Sports Tourer typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and basic safety features like ABS and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Tech Line’ or ‘Elite’, added features like automatic climate control, parking sensors, a rearview camera, and more advanced safety systems. 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 utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension employed a semi-independent torsion beam setup, which was a cost-effective solution that offered a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The steering system was an electric power-assisted rack and pinion setup, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Vauxhall Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer 1.2 Turbo 130 hp was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical family car. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the three-cylinder engine could feel strained under heavy load and that the manual transmission, while competent, wasn’t as refined as those found in more expensive vehicles. Compared to the diesel-powered Astra variants, the 1.2 Turbo offered lower running costs in terms of fuel, but potentially higher maintenance costs due to the complexity of the turbocharger system. Against competitors like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Estate, the Astra offered a competitive package in terms of price, features, and practicality.
Legacy
The F12SHT engine has proven to be a relatively reliable unit, although, like all turbocharged engines, it requires regular maintenance and quality oil changes. Common issues reported include occasional turbocharger failures and problems with the direct injection system. The Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer, in general, has established a reputation as a dependable and affordable used car. The 1.2 Turbo 130 hp variant remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and economical estate car, offering a good balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and value for money. Its continued presence in the used car market reflects its enduring appeal as a versatile family vehicle.
