Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Opel Astra J 1.7 CDTI (125 Hp)
Overall Rating
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 Overview:
Opel Astra (J). With 280 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It boasts low fuel consumption (~5.7 l/100km). With a weight of 1515 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 11.5 s). The top speed reaches 195 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.
The Opel Astra J achieved a strong 5-star Euro NCAP rating, demonstrating excellent adult occupant protection and a good level of overall safety for its time.
1.7 CDTI (125 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Good all-round performance, offering a strong mid-range torque suitable for both urban and highway driving.
Fuel Economy
Excellent fuel economy, making it a very economical choice for those covering higher mileage.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Wide range of efficient engines, including strong diesels and capable petrol turbos.
- • Comfortable and composed ride quality, especially on longer journeys.
- • High Euro NCAP safety rating (5 stars).
- • Practical interior with good boot space for its class.
- • Solid build quality and refined cabin.
Cons:
- • Some engines, particularly the lower-powered naturally aspirated ones, can feel underpowered.
- • Automatic transmissions can dull performance and increase fuel consumption.
- • Infotainment system can feel dated compared to newer rivals.
- • Rear visibility can be somewhat restricted due to design.
- • Heavier than some rivals, impacting agility slightly.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(H (facelift 2007): 2008 - 2009).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Opel |
| Model: | Astra |
| Generation: | J |
| Modification (Engine): | 1.7 CDTI (125 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2009 |
| End of production: | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Hatchback |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Engine systems: | Particulate filter |
| Power: | 125 Hp @ 4000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 74.1 Hp/l [170mm more] |
| Torque: | 280 Nm @ 2300 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | A17DTR More details about the engine A17DTR |
| Engine displacement: | 1686 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5.4 l |
| Coolant: | 7.1 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 79 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 86 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 18:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 5.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 4.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 4.7 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 5 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 195 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.4 kg/Nm, 184.8 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 10.9 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1515 |
| Max. weight: | 2065 |
| Max load: | 550 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1235 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 370 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 56 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4419 mm mm [170mm more] |
| Width: | 1814 mm mm [61mm more] |
| Height: | 1510 mm mm [50mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2685 mm mm [71mm more] |
| Width including mirrors: | 2013 mm |
| Front track: | 1541 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1551 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 160 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.4 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Opel Astra!