The Vauxhall Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer 1.6 Turbo (180 hp) Plug-in Hybrid Automatic, launched in February 2022 and produced through November 2025, represents a significant step in the Astra lineage, blending the practicality of a station wagon with the efficiency of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level within the Mk VIII Sports Tourer range, it offered a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline or diesel models, appealing to buyers seeking reduced emissions and the benefits of electric driving. This variant is built on the Stellantis EMP2 platform, shared with other Peugeot and Citroën models, and aimed to compete with rivals like the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports Hybrid and the Skoda Octavia iV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Turbo (180 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2022 |
| End of production | November, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.1 l/100 km (213.8 US mpg, 256.8 UK mpg, 90.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 24-26 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp, 104.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209.7 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) | 67.6 km (42 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 |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 180 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| System torque | 360 Nm @ 6000 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 6000 rpm) |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 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 | 1717 kg (3785.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2170 kg (4784.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 453 kg (998.69 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 516 l (18.22 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1553 l (54.84 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4642 mm (182.76 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2062 mm (81.18 in.) |
| Height | 1443 mm (56.81 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2732 mm (107.56 in.) |
| Front overhang | 906 mm (35.67 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1004 mm (39.53 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive the 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid lies a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated the F16XHR. This engine produces 150 hp and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a variable valve timing (VVT) system to optimize efficiency and performance. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, specifically an Aisin-sourced unit known for its smooth operation. Supplementing the gasoline engine is an 110 hp electric motor integrated between the engine and transmission. The combined system output is 180 hp and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels. The 12.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is positioned under the rear seats, minimizing impact on cabin space. The battery supports rapid charging, allowing for a relatively quick recharge time via a compatible charging station.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic offers a refined driving experience. In electric-only mode, it provides near-silent operation and brisk acceleration for urban commutes, with a WLTP-rated range of approximately 42 miles. Switching to hybrid mode seamlessly blends the power of the gasoline engine and electric motor, delivering responsive performance and good fuel economy. While not as overtly sporty as some of the higher-powered Astra variants, the 180 hp powertrain provides adequate acceleration – 0-60 mph in 7.7 seconds – for most driving situations. The 8-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a comfortable ride. The weight of the battery pack does add some mass, which is noticeable in handling compared to lighter Astra models, but the well-tuned suspension helps to mitigate this effect.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Automatic trim typically included a generous level of standard equipment. Features commonly found in this variant include Vauxhall’s IntelliLux LED matrix headlights, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or a combination of cloth and leather-effect materials. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. The suspension setup is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The car is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and brake assist. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and generous equipment levels. However, some reviewers noted that the battery pack added weight, slightly impacting handling. Compared to the gasoline-only Astra variants, the plug-in hybrid offered significantly improved fuel economy and lower emissions, but at a higher purchase price. Against competitors like the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports Hybrid, the Astra offered a more engaging driving experience, while the Skoda Octavia iV provided more interior space.
Legacy
The 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. The longevity of the battery pack is a key consideration for potential used car buyers, but Vauxhall offers an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery. On the used car market, this variant commands a premium over the gasoline-only models due to its fuel efficiency and environmental benefits. As concerns about emissions and fuel costs continue to grow, the Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and efficient station wagon.
