• So as to make the loss of the Astravan
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auto more bearable, it was replaced for a few days by the latest addition to the range, the 1.7 DTI. Despite its 300cc deficiency compared with the two-litre, it produces 74hp, just llip less. Torque output Is 165km, 20km less, but produced over a wider range, 1,801]-3,000mm. The old 1.7 ID's figures were 67hp and 132Nni. On the road, the performance improvement over the old model is greater than the bare numbers suggest and, while obviously slower than the two-litre in ultimate terms, it's still more than adequate for the real world.
The new engine is net just about power, though—it also has greatly reduced emissions and fuel consumption. Installed in the Astra car, the 1.7 DTI is one of very few engines that cracked 70mpg on the official government extra-urban fuel consumption test. Chi's fuel consumption testing is more realistic though. Fully laden around our Kent test route with its mix of roads from motorways to congested town centres, the 1.7 DTI managed a highly respectable 50.3mpg in far from perfect conditions, with lots of baulking.
The very red example tested was in the basic trim, known as Envoy. Compared to the LS, the Envoy misses out on the adjustable steering column and driver's seat, roof rails and upper load-restraint mesh, and also has a lower spec radio-cassette unit. Despite this, the Envoy's equipment list could never be described as spartan.
On the road, the biggest difference was in the brakes. Although adequate, the non-ABS disc/drum setup on the 1.7 was no match for that on the two-litre. The higher profile tyres gave a more comfortable ride at the expense of ultimate grip, but overall the ride and handling is as good as the range-topper.
We know of some operators who have been put off the two-litre because it has too much power. This latest addition should answer their needs as the best allrounder in the range.