Opel Astra J GTC 1.8 (140 Hp) Ecotec


Overall Rating

8.5 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 4.8 / 5
Value 3.9 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 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 GTC Overview:

Opel Astra (J GTC). With 175 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8.95 l/100km). Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 10.7 s). The top speed reaches 200 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.

1.8 (140 Hp) Ecotec Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Acceptable performance (0-100 km/h in 10.7 seconds), but feels less responsive than its turbocharged counterparts.

Fuel Economy

Decent fuel economy (6.8-6.9 l/100 km combined), though slightly less efficient than the 1.4 Turbo with similar power.

Best Use Case: City Driving / Budget Conscious

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Striking design and sporty aesthetics
  • • Wide range of engine options, including a potent OPC model
  • • Good handling and driving dynamics
  • • Practical hatchback versatility
  • • Solid build quality for its class

Cons:

  • • Rear visibility can be limited due to design
  • • Firm ride on sportier trims, especially with larger wheels
  • • Rear passenger space is tighter than the 5-door Astra
  • • Some interior plastics feel dated compared to rivals
  • • Fuel economy on high-performance models can be significant

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(J Sports Tourer: 2010 - 2012).

General:
Brand:Opel
Model:Astra
Generation:J GTC
Modification (Engine):1.8 (140 Hp) Ecotec
Start of production:2011
End of production:2012
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:3
Engine:
Power:140 Hp @ 6300 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:78 Hp/l [232mm less]
Torque:175 Nm @ 3800 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:A18XER More details about the engine A18XER
Engine displacement:1796
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:4.5 l
Coolant:5.6 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:80.5 mm mm
Piston Stroke:88.2 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:8.9-9.0 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.5-5.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:6.8-6.9 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:10.7 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:10.7 sec
Maximum speed:200 km/h
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:10.2 sec
Space:
Max. weight:1880
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1165 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:380 l
Size:
Length:4466 mm mm [232mm less]
Width:1840 mm mm [26mm more]
Height:1482 mm mm [53mm less]
Wheelbase:2695 mm mm [10mm more]
Width including mirrors:2020 mm
Front track:1584 mm
Rear (Back) track:1588 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):112 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 gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering

Fuel, speed, and comfort: How does the Opel Astra rank in your book?