The Vauxhall Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer (facelift 2019) 1.5 Turbo D (105 hp) represents a significant iteration within the Astra range, specifically targeting the European market with a focus on fuel efficiency and practicality. Introduced as part of the facelifted Mk VII generation, produced from 2019 until November 2021, this variant occupied a middle-ground position in the Sports Tourer (estate) lineup, offering a balance between running costs and everyday usability. It was built on the GM’s Delta platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform, shared with other Opel/Vauxhall and Chevrolet models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Turbo D (105 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) | 4.3-4.6 l/100 km (54.7 – 51.1 US mpg, 65.7 – 61.4 UK mpg, 23.3 – 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 90 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 3250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F15DVC |
| Engine displacement | 1496 cm3 (91.29 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| 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) |
| 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Vauxhall Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer 1.5 Turbo D (105 hp) was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and economical family vehicle. Positioned within the broader Mk VII Astra range – a generation known for its improved refinement and technology compared to its predecessors – the Sports Tourer body style offered increased cargo capacity without sacrificing the Astra’s core driving characteristics. The 2019 facelift brought updated styling, enhanced safety features, and improvements to the infotainment system. This particular engine and transmission combination was aimed at those prioritizing fuel economy and lower running costs over outright performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Astra variant lies the F15DVC engine, a 1.5-liter inline-three cylinder turbocharged diesel. This engine is part of Vauxhall/Opel’s ‘Small Diesel’ family, known for its compact design and efficiency. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at high pressure directly into the combustion chamber for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque delivery. The engine features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient gas exchange. Paired with this engine is a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement. The engine’s design incorporates features like a particulate filter to meet stringent Euro 6d emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 105 hp output and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque provide adequate performance for everyday driving. While not a particularly sporty configuration, the engine delivers a usable amount of power, particularly in the mid-range where the torque is readily available. Acceleration is modest, but sufficient for merging onto highways and overtaking slower traffic. The six-speed manual transmission allows drivers to maintain optimal engine speed for efficiency or performance. Compared to higher-output Astra variants, such as those equipped with more powerful diesel engines or petrol options, this 1.5 Turbo D feels less responsive. However, the trade-off is significantly improved fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing lower engine speeds at cruising speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 Turbo D (105 hp) Sports Tourer typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags were standard. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Design’ or ‘Elite’, added features like automatic climate control, a larger touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim materials. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Mk VII 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, while the rear brakes are solid discs measuring 264mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, making it well-suited for long journeys. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Sports Tourer 1.5 Turbo D (105 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical choice. Reviewers praised its fuel efficiency and spacious interior, but noted that the engine lacked the punch of more powerful alternatives. Compared to the 1.6-liter petrol variants, the 1.5 Turbo D offered significantly better fuel economy, but with a slight compromise in performance. Against competitors like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Estate, the Astra offered a competitive package in terms of price, equipment, and running costs. Reliability reports suggest that the 1.5 Turbo D engine is generally reliable, although regular servicing is essential to maintain optimal performance.
Legacy
The 1.5 Turbo D engine has proven to be a relatively durable and reliable unit, and examples of the Astra Mk VII Sports Tourer with this powertrain continue to be found on the used car market. Its fuel efficiency and practicality make it an attractive option for buyers seeking an affordable and economical estate car. While not a performance-oriented variant, the 105 hp version offers a comfortable and capable driving experience for everyday use. The engine’s relatively simple design and readily available parts contribute to its long-term maintainability, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers.
