The Opel Corsa D (Facelift, produced from 2011 to 2014) 3-door 1.6 LER (192 hp) represents a performance-oriented variant within the fourth generation of the Corsa. Positioned as a sporty offering, it aimed to attract drivers seeking a more engaging experience than the standard Corsa models. This version, equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, was a relatively late addition to the Corsa D lineup, capitalizing on advancements in engine technology to deliver a significant power boost. It primarily served the European market, where the Corsa was a popular choice in the subcompact hatchback segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa D (Facelift 2011) 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 LER (192 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 169.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 192 Hp @ 5850 rpm |
| Power per litre | 120.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1980-5800 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1980-5800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A16LER |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1130 kg (2491.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1555 kg (3428.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3999 mm (157.44 in.) |
| Width | 1737 mm (68.39 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1944 mm (76.54 in.) |
| Height | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2511 mm (98.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | 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 |
| Tires size | 215/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Corsa D 1.6 LER is the A16LER engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler. This engine is a member of Opel’s ‘Family 1’ engine family, known for its compact design and efficiency. The A16LER utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The turbocharger provides a significant boost in power output compared to naturally aspirated versions of the 1.6-liter engine. The engine’s control unit (ECU) manages fuel delivery, ignition timing, and boost pressure to optimize performance and emissions. The 6-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option available with this engine, providing precise gear changes and enhancing the driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 192 hp output of the 1.6 LER transforms the Corsa D’s driving dynamics. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 7.2 seconds, making it noticeably quicker than the base models. The turbocharger delivers a surge of torque at lower engine speeds, providing strong acceleration in everyday driving situations. The 6-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. While the suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, the increased power requires more attentive driving, especially when cornering. Compared to the lower-powered Corsa variants, the 1.6 LER offers a more engaging and sporty driving experience, but it comes at the cost of slightly increased fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 LER variant was typically offered with a higher level of standard equipment compared to the entry-level Corsas. This often included features such as alloy wheels, sports seats, air conditioning, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and electric windows. Optional extras could include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a sporty design. The dashboard layout was consistent with other Corsa D models, but the 1.6 LER often featured unique trim accents and badging to distinguish it from other trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa D 1.6 LER utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The braking system consists of ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The chassis was reinforced slightly to handle the increased power output of the 1.6 LER engine. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing responsive and accurate handling. The 215/45 R17 tires offer good grip and contribute to the car’s overall handling performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corsa D 1.6 LER was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance and engaging driving dynamics. However, some reviewers noted that the fuel economy was not as competitive as some of its rivals. Compared to other Corsa D variants, such as the 1.3 CDTi diesel, the 1.6 LER offered significantly more power but at the expense of fuel efficiency. Against competitors like the Ford Fiesta ST or Renault Clio RS, the Corsa 1.6 LER offered a good balance of performance and practicality, but it wasn’t quite as focused on outright performance as those dedicated hot hatches.
Legacy
The Opel Corsa D 1.6 LER has established a reputation as a reliable and enjoyable small hatchback. The A16LER engine, while turbocharged, is generally considered to be robust and durable when properly maintained. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential oil leaks. In the used car market, the 1.6 LER variant commands a slightly higher price than the lower-powered Corsa models, reflecting its performance advantage. It remains a popular choice for drivers seeking a sporty and affordable hatchback with a bit more punch than the standard Corsa.
