Opel Astra J (facelift 2012) 1.6 (180 Hp) Turbo Ecotec


Overall Rating

7.3 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 2.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Opel Astra:

The Opel Astra is a compact car/small family car developed and produced by the German automaker Opel since 1991, currently at its sixth generation. It was first launched in September 1991 as a direct replacement to the Opel Kadett. As of 2025, the car slots between the smaller Corsa supermini and the larger Frontera subcompact crossover SUV.
Initially, the Astra was available in hatchback, saloon, and estate forms. A panel van and a convertible also appeared in the early 1990s. These body styles were later followed by a coupé in 2004, and the sporty Astra OPC appeared in 2005. The Twin Top retractable hardtop convertible replaced the soft top convertible in 2006, while the Caravan was renamed to Astra Sports Tourer since 2009....(Read more on Wikipedia)

J (facelift 2012) Overview:

Opel Astra (J (facelift 2012)). With 230 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8.85 l/100km). Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.5 s). The top speed reaches 221 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

1.6 (180 Hp) Turbo Ecotec Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Strong, sporty performance, making it the most engaging petrol option.

Fuel Economy

Higher fuel consumption, reflecting its performance orientation.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast / Highway / Mixed

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Comfortable ride and refined cabin ambiance.
  • • Wide range of efficient and capable engines, especially the diesels.
  • • Excellent 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
  • • Spacious interior and practical boot capacity.
  • • Solid build quality and appealing exterior design.

Cons:

  • • Some entry-level petrol engines can feel underpowered.
  • • Interior can appear cluttered with numerous buttons.
  • • Automatic transmissions often compromise performance and fuel economy.
  • • Rear visibility can be somewhat limited due to design.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(J GTC: 2011 - 2018).

General:
Brand:Opel
Model:Astra
Generation:J (facelift 2012)
Modification (Engine):1.6 (180 Hp) Turbo Ecotec
Start of production:2012
End of production:2015
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:180 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:112.6 Hp/l [47mm less]
Torque:230 Nm @ 2200-5500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:A16LET More details about the engine A16LET
Engine displacement:1598
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Engine oil capacity:4.5 l
Coolant:5.6 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:79 mm mm
Piston Stroke:81.5 mm mm
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:8.8-8.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:6.8 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:8.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:8.5 sec
Maximum speed:221 km/h
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:8.1 sec
Space:
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1235 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:370 l
Fuel tank capacity:56 l
Size:
Length:4419 mm mm [47mm less]
Width:1814 mm mm [26mm less]
Height:1510 mm mm [28mm more]
Wheelbase:2685 mm mm [10mm less]
Width with mirrors folded:1831 mm
Width including mirrors:2013 mm
Front track:1541 mm
Rear (Back) track:1551 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.4 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size205/60 R16
Wheel rims size16

Behind the wheel of the Opel Astra. How does it handle on the road?