The Vauxhall Astra Mk VIII 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic, produced from November 2021 to November 2025, represents a significant step in the Astra’s evolution, blending internal combustion with electric power. This variant, built on the 1HX0 platform shared with Peugeot and Citroën models, was positioned as a mid-range offering within the Mk VIII Astra lineup, appealing to buyers seeking improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions without fully committing to a fully electric vehicle. It aimed to bridge the gap between traditional gasoline models and the fully electric Astra-e. The plug-in hybrid powertrain offered a compelling combination of performance and economy, making it a popular choice in the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VIII |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Turbo (180 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 2021 |
| End of production | November, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.1-1.4 l/100 km (213.8 – 168 US mpg, 256.8 – 201.8 UK mpg, 90.9 – 71.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 24-26 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 214.5 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 12.4 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 56.3 km (34.98 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 16 kWh/100 km (25.75 kWh/100 mi, 131 MPGe, 6.3 km/kWh, 3.9 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 110 Hp @ 2500 rpm (320 Nm @ 500-2500 rpm / 236.02 lb.-ft. @ 500-2500 rpm) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 180 Hp @ 6000 rpm (360 Nm @ 6000 rpm / 265.52 lb.-ft. @ 6000 rpm) |
| Internal combustion engine Power | 150 Hp @ 6000 rpm (250 Nm @ 1750 rpm / 184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F16XHR |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1678 kg (3699.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 305 l (10.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1122 l (39.62 cu. ft.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4374 mm (172.2 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2062 mm (81.18 in.) |
| Height | 1441 mm (56.73 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in.) |
| Front overhang | 933 mm (36.73 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 869 mm (34.21 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.51 m (34.48 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Vauxhall Astra Mk VIII 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic, launched in late 2021, is a key component of Vauxhall’s strategy to offer a wider range of electrified vehicles. This model builds upon the foundation of the eighth-generation Astra, which debuted with a new design language and a focus on lightweight construction. The plug-in hybrid variant specifically targets environmentally conscious buyers who desire the practicality of a hatchback with the benefits of reduced emissions and the potential for all-electric driving. It utilizes a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with an electric motor and a 12.4 kWh battery pack, offering a combined output of 180 horsepower. This powertrain configuration was available throughout the model’s production run, from 2021 to 2025.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Astra 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid is the F16XHR engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine featuring direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with intercooling. This engine produces 150 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. The engine utilizes a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) to optimize performance and efficiency. The electric motor, positioned between the engine and the 8-speed automatic transmission, contributes an additional 110 horsepower and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output is 180 horsepower and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. The 12.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located under the rear seats, minimizing impact on cabin space. The automatic transmission is a conventional torque-converter type, optimized for smooth operation and efficiency in hybrid mode. The powertrain operates in several modes, including EV (electric only), Hybrid, and Sport, allowing the driver to prioritize fuel economy or performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Astra 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. In EV mode, the vehicle offers silent and emission-free driving for up to 56.3 km (34.98 miles) on the WLTP cycle. The electric motor provides instant torque, resulting in brisk acceleration from a standstill. When the battery is depleted or when more power is demanded, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in, providing a smooth transition. The 8-speed automatic transmission offers quick and precise gear changes, contributing to a responsive feel. Compared to the standard gasoline-powered Astra models, the plug-in hybrid variant feels slightly heavier due to the added weight of the battery pack. However, the combined power output provides adequate performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.3 seconds. Compared to higher-output Astra variants, such as those with more powerful gasoline engines, this version prioritizes efficiency over outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic was typically offered in well-equipped trim levels, often including features such as Vauxhall’s IntelliLux LED matrix headlights, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. Standard interior features included comfortable cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and automatic climate control. Optional extras included premium upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a more advanced sound system. The trim level often dictated the availability of features like heated seats and parking assist.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Mk VIII utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The plug-in hybrid variant features a slightly modified suspension setup to accommodate the added weight of the battery pack. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are standard features. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. Tire sizes typically ranged from 225/45 R17 to 225/40 R18, depending on the trim level.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Vauxhall Astra 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the battery pack reduced trunk space compared to the standard Astra hatchback. Compared to the gasoline-powered Astra models, the plug-in hybrid variant offered significantly improved fuel economy and lower emissions, but at a higher purchase price. Compared to other plug-in hybrid hatchbacks in the same segment, such as the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid and the Volkswagen Golf eHybrid, the Astra offered a competitive combination of performance, efficiency, and value.
Legacy
The Astra Mk VIII 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic represents an important step in Vauxhall’s transition towards electrification. The powertrain, while not without its compromises (such as reduced trunk space), proved to be reliable in early reports. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and efficient hatchback with the benefits of plug-in hybrid technology. The success of this variant paved the way for Vauxhall to expand its range of electrified vehicles, including the fully electric Astra-e, solidifying its commitment to a more sustainable future.
