The Opel Cascada 1.6 Turbo Ecotec start/stop, produced from November 2013 to April 2018, was a mid-range offering within the Cascada lineup. Positioned as a stylish, open-top grand tourer, the Cascada aimed to recapture some of the spirit of Opel’s earlier droptop models like the Kadett Cabrio. This particular variant, powered by the A16SHT or B16SHT engine, offered a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, targeting buyers who desired a comfortable and relatively economical convertible experience. The Cascada itself was built on the GM Delta platform, shared with models like the Buick Verano and Chevrolet Cruze, but uniquely tailored for the convertible market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Cascada |
| Generation | Cascada |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (200 Hp) Turbo Ecotec start/stop |
| Start of production | November, 2013 |
| End of production | April, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7-5.8 l/100 km (41.3 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7-6.8 l/100 km (35.1 – 34.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 158-160 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1650-3500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A16SHT, B16SHT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.5 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1701-1816 kg (3750.06 – 4003.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2105-2200 kg (4640.73 – 4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 384-404 kg (846.58 – 890.67 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l (9.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 630 l (22.25 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1250-1300 kg (2755.78 – 2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4696 mm (184.88 in.) |
| Width | 1839 mm (72.4 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1443 mm (56.81 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2695 mm (106.1 in.) |
| Front track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Cascada 1.6 Turbo Ecotec lay the A16SHT or B16SHT engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine was part of Opel’s Ecotec family, known for its focus on efficiency and refinement. The engine featured direct injection, a turbocharger with an intercooler, and variable valve timing. The direct injection system allowed for precise fuel delivery, improving both power and fuel economy. The turbocharger boosted power output to 200 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1650 and 3500 rpm. The engine’s start/stop system further enhanced fuel efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle came to a halt. The engine was transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing drivers with direct control over the engine’s power.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter turbo engine provided adequate performance for the Cascada, achieving a 0-60 mph time of around 8.7 seconds. While not a sports car, the engine offered sufficient power for comfortable cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power, but some turbo lag was present, particularly at lower engine speeds. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter turbo variants, the 1.6-liter engine offered a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. The manual transmission, while engaging, didn’t offer the seamlessness of some dual-clutch transmissions found in competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cascada 1.6 Turbo Ecotec start/stop typically came with a respectable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated seats, a navigation system, and a premium sound system. The Cascada’s interior was designed with comfort in mind, offering supportive seats and a well-laid-out dashboard. The convertible top was electrically operated and could be lowered or raised in around 30 seconds. Optional extras included parking sensors, a rearview camera, and advanced safety features like lane departure warning.
Chassis & Braking
The Cascada featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety in emergency braking situations. The Cascada’s chassis was reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, ensuring structural rigidity and minimizing body flex.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Cascada 1.6 Turbo Ecotec start/stop was generally well-received by critics, who praised its stylish design, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.6-liter engine could feel underpowered at times, particularly when fully loaded. Compared to other convertibles in its class, such as the Ford Mustang Convertible and the BMW 2 Series Convertible, the Cascada offered a more affordable price point and a more relaxed driving experience. Its fuel economy was competitive, but its performance lagged behind some of its rivals. Reliability reports were generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Opel Cascada, while not a massive sales success, remains a popular choice among used car buyers looking for a stylish and affordable convertible. The 1.6-liter Turbo Ecotec engine has proven to be relatively reliable, with proper maintenance. Parts availability is generally good, and repair costs are reasonable. The Cascada’s comfortable ride and well-equipped interior make it a pleasant grand tourer, and its convertible top allows drivers to enjoy open-air motoring. Today, the Cascada represents a final chapter in Opel’s history of producing stylish and accessible convertibles.
