The Vauxhall Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid e-DCT, launched in November 2025, represents a significant step in Vauxhall’s electrification strategy. This variant is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) based on the Astra Mk VIII platform (often referred to as the A3 platform within the Stellantis group). Positioned as a mid-range to premium offering within the Sports Tourer (estate) body style, it combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, aiming to deliver both fuel efficiency and a usable all-electric range. The Sports Tourer body style itself is a popular choice in Europe, offering practicality and cargo space, and this PHEV version expands its appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Turbo (195 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid e-DCT |
| Start 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) | 2.3 l/100 km (102.3 US mpg, 122.8 UK mpg, 43.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 51-53 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e-bis |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209.7 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 17.2 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 81-82 km (50.33 – 50.95 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 125 Hp @ 2500 rpm |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 195 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| System torque | 360 Nm @ 1750 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 250 Nm @ 1750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.71 m (35.14 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission e-DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| 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 is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, internally designated as a member of the PSA (now Stellantis) PureTech engine family. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The engine features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust valves. Coupled with this is a 125 horsepower electric motor, positioned between the engine and the transmission. The electric motor draws power from a 17.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The combined system output is 195 horsepower and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (e-DCT), chosen for its quick and smooth gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid e-DCT offers a refined driving experience. In pure electric mode, it provides silent and smooth acceleration, suitable for urban commutes and shorter journeys. The all-electric range of 81-82 km (50-51 miles) allows for significant emissions-free driving. When the battery is depleted or when more power is demanded, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in, providing a combined output that delivers a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 8 seconds. The e-DCT transmission contributes to responsive acceleration and efficient power delivery. Compared to the non-hybrid Astra variants, this model prioritizes fuel economy and reduced emissions over outright performance. The added weight of the battery pack does slightly impact handling compared to lighter models, but the well-tuned suspension maintains a comfortable and controlled ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid e-DCT typically comes with a generous level of standard equipment. Features commonly include Vauxhall’s IntelliLux LED headlights, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery is typically a combination of cloth and synthetic leather, with higher trims offering full leather options. Optional extras often include a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and heated seats. Trim levels vary by market, but generally position this variant as a well-equipped, mid-to-high range offering.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension incorporates a coil spring and anti-roll bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. The car is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electronic brakeforce distribution, and brake assist. The electric steering system offers light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid e-DCT has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Its fuel efficiency, all-electric range, and comfortable ride have been praised. Compared to the petrol and diesel variants, the PHEV model offers significantly lower running costs, particularly for drivers who can regularly charge the battery. However, the higher purchase price and slightly increased weight are drawbacks. Compared to other PHEV estate cars in its class, the Astra offers a competitive combination of performance, practicality, and value.
Legacy
The long-term reliability of the 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid powertrain remains to be fully established, as it is a relatively new technology. However, the PureTech engine has a generally good reputation for reliability, and the e-DCT transmission has proven to be durable in other Stellantis vehicles. On the used car market, these models are expected to hold their value reasonably well, particularly as demand for PHEVs continues to grow. The combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and technology makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a versatile and environmentally friendly estate car.
