The Vauxhall Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer GSe 1.6 Turbo (225 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid e-DCT is a station wagon introduced in November 2025 as part of the Astra Mk VIII generation (launched in 2022). Positioned as a performance-oriented and efficient variant within the Sports Tourer (estate) body style, it combines a turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor and a plug-in hybrid system. This model represents Vauxhall’s commitment to electrification and sporty driving dynamics within the compact family car segment. It builds upon the A3 platform shared with Peugeot, Opel, and Citroën vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | GSe 1.6 Turbo (225 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) | 53 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e-bis |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 206.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 17.2 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 79 km (49.09 mi) |
| Max speed (electric) | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 125 Hp @ 2500 rpm |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 225 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| System torque | 360 Nm @ 1750 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| 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 | 1746 kg (3849.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2170 kg (4784.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 424 kg (934.76 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Astra GSe 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid utilizes a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine (code likely to be a variant of the PSA EP6 engine family) paired with an electric motor integrated between the engine and the 7-speed e-DCT (efficient Dual-Clutch Transmission). The gasoline engine produces 180 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, while the electric motor adds 125 horsepower. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 225 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. The engine features direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance. The e-DCT transmission provides quick and smooth gear changes, optimizing both fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The 17.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack allows for an all-electric range of up to 79 km (49 miles) under WLTP testing.
Driving Characteristics
The 225 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7.3 seconds. In electric mode, the Astra offers near-silent and emission-free driving, ideal for urban commutes. The e-DCT transmission is tuned for efficiency, with gear ratios optimized for both electric and hybrid operation. Compared to lower-powered Astra variants (like the 1.2L turbo), the GSe offers significantly more performance. While not as overtly sporty as a dedicated performance model, the combined output provides ample power for overtaking and highway cruising. The electric motor provides instant torque, filling in gaps in the gasoline engine’s power delivery. The weight of the battery pack does impact handling slightly, but the McPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension provide a comfortable and controlled ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GSe trim level, even as a base for the plug-in hybrid, typically includes a generous amount of standard equipment. This includes features like Vauxhall’s IntelliLink infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, 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 is typically a combination of cloth and synthetic leather, with GSe-specific badging and styling cues. Optional extras may include a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and upgraded interior trim materials.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra Sports Tourer GSe utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension consists of independent McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup. This configuration balances ride comfort and handling. The braking system features ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brakeforce distribution. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer GSe 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Its combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality has been praised. Compared to other plug-in hybrid estate cars in its class, such as the Peugeot 308 SW Hybrid and the Skoda Octavia iV Combi, the Astra offers a competitive balance of features and price. The Astra’s fuel economy is a key selling point, with the ability to travel significant distances on electric power alone. Reliability data is still emerging, but the PSA-derived powertrain is generally considered to be robust.
Legacy
The Astra Mk VIII Sports Tourer GSe 1.6 Turbo Plug-in Hybrid represents a significant step in Vauxhall’s transition towards electrification. The powertrain, while relatively new, is expected to offer good long-term reliability, benefiting from the advancements in hybrid technology. On the used car market, these models are likely to hold their value well due to their fuel efficiency and low emissions. As battery technology continues to improve, the Astra GSe will likely become an increasingly attractive option for buyers seeking a practical and environmentally friendly family car.
