Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa E 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC (95 Hp) Easytronic start/stop |
| Start of production | January, 2015 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg, 83.1 UK mpg, 29.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3 l/100 km (78.4 US mpg, 94.2 UK mpg, 33.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.1 l/100 km (75.9 US mpg, 91.1 UK mpg, 32.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 84 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp, 84.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B13DTE |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.25:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1124 kg (2478 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 541 kg (1192.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1090 l (38.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1150 kg (2535.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Length | 4021 mm (158.31 in.) |
| Width | 1736 mm (68.35 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1944 mm (76.54 in.) |
| Height | 1479 mm (58.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2510 mm (98.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.00 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Easytronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 88H; 185/70 R14 88T |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15; 5.5J x 14 |
The Opel Corsa E 3-door 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC (95 hp) Easytronic start/stop was a subcompact hatchback produced from January 2015 to June 2018. It represented an entry-level diesel offering within the broader Corsa E range (2014-2019), which was the fourth generation of the popular Corsa supermini. This particular variant aimed to provide fuel efficiency and affordability, targeting buyers seeking a practical and economical city car. The Corsa E platform, derived from General Motors’ Gamma II architecture, brought a redesigned exterior and interior, along with updated technology compared to its predecessor.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Corsa variant is the 1.3 CDTI (B13DTE) engine, a four-cylinder diesel utilizing common-rail direct injection and a turbocharger with intercooling. This engine was a mainstay in several Opel/Vauxhall and Fiat models. The 1248cc displacement, combined with the turbocharger, allowed for a reasonable 95 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque available from 1500 to 3500 rpm. The high compression ratio of 16.25:1 is typical for diesel engines, contributing to efficiency. The Easytronic 5-speed automatic transmission is a semi-automated manual gearbox. It uses actuators to shift gears, offering a degree of automation without the full complexity (and cost) of a traditional torque-converter automatic. It’s known for being less smooth than conventional automatics, but it contributes to improved fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 CDTI Easytronic Corsa E offered a practical, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.8 seconds, and top speed was 113 mph. The Easytronic transmission, while improving convenience, resulted in noticeable gear changes and a less refined feel compared to manual or higher-powered Corsa models. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than outright performance. The torque delivery, however, was adequate for everyday driving, providing sufficient pull for overtaking and navigating city streets. Compared to the 1.0-liter petrol versions, the 1.3 CDTI offered significantly more torque, making it feel more effortless at lower speeds. However, it lacked the responsiveness of the more powerful 1.4-liter turbo petrol engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 CDTI Easytronic typically fell into the mid-range of the Corsa E trim levels. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features like ESP (Electronic Stability Program) were also standard. Optional extras included alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, parking sensors, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. Higher trim levels added features like cruise control, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa E utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between comfort and handling. The front brakes were discs, while the rear brakes were also discs on most versions, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corsa E 1.3 CDTI Easytronic was generally well-received as an economical and practical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs. However, the Easytronic transmission received mixed reviews, with some finding it jerky and slow to respond. Compared to the petrol-powered Corsas, the diesel offered superior fuel economy, but at the cost of some refinement. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Renault Clio, the Corsa E offered a competitive package, particularly in terms of value for money. The diesel engine, while efficient, was often seen as less desirable than the more modern petrol options due to concerns about diesel emissions.
Legacy
The 1.3 CDTI engine, while reliable, is not without its potential issues. Common problems include issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), particularly on vehicles used primarily for short journeys. The Easytronic transmission can also be prone to wear and tear, requiring occasional maintenance. However, with regular servicing, these engines can prove durable. On the used car market, the Corsa E 1.3 CDTI Easytronic represents an affordable option for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical hatchback. Its relatively low purchase price and running costs make it an attractive choice for those on a budget, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues with the DPF and transmission.
