The Opel Corsa E 5-door 1.4 (90 hp) Automatic was a variant of the fifth-generation Corsa, produced between May 2018 and June 2019. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering within the Corsa E lineup, it aimed to provide affordable and convenient transportation with the ease of an automatic transmission. This model played a significant role in the European market, where small, fuel-efficient hatchbacks are highly popular. It represented Opel’s attempt to cater to buyers prioritizing practicality and ease of use over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa E 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (90 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | May, 2018 |
| End of production | June, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8-8.2 l/100 km (30.2 – 28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4-5.7 l/100 km (43.6 – 41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3-6.6 l/100 km (37.3 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 143-150 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 4000 rpm (95.88 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D14XEL |
| Engine displacement | 1398 cm3 (85.31 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1173 kg (2586.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1660 kg (3659.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 487 kg (1073.65 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1120 l (39.55 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%) | 800 kg (1763.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Length | 4021 mm (158.31 in.) |
| Width | 1746 mm (68.74 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1944 mm (76.54 in.) |
| Height | 1481 mm (58.31 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 | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14; 185/65 R15; 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15; 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Opel Corsa E, launched in 2014, represented a significant redesign for Opel’s popular supermini. The 1.4-liter, 90 hp Automatic variant, introduced in 2018, was designed to appeal to drivers seeking a comfortable and easy-to-drive city car. Built on the General Motors’ 1HX0/A3 platform (shared with the Vauxhall Corsa and Chevrolet Trax), the Corsa E aimed to improve upon its predecessor in terms of interior space, technology, and overall refinement. This particular engine and transmission combination was positioned as a practical choice for urban commuting and shorter journeys.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Corsa E 1.4 Automatic was powered by the D14XEL engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine featured multi-point fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The D14XEL is a naturally aspirated engine, meaning it doesn’t utilize a turbocharger or supercharger. The engine produced 90 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency and smooth operation over outright performance. The automatic transmission was a six-speed unit, offering relatively smooth shifts but not the responsiveness of a manual gearbox. This transmission was chosen for its convenience, particularly in congested urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Corsa E 1.4 Automatic was characterized by its ease of use and comfortable ride. Acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time of around 13.2 seconds. The automatic transmission, while convenient, resulted in a less engaging driving experience compared to the manual versions. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than sporty performance, meaning the engine often felt strained during quick acceleration or when climbing hills. The power delivery was linear, but the lack of turbocharging meant that the engine needed to be revved to access its full potential. Compared to the more powerful 1.0 Turbo or 1.4 Turbo variants, the 1.4 Automatic felt noticeably slower, but it offered a smoother and more relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Corsa E 1.4 Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Energy’ or ‘Sport’, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, a touchscreen infotainment system, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple and functional dashboard layout. Optional extras included parking sensors, a rearview camera, and a more advanced audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa E featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were disc brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes – a cost-saving measure common in this segment. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The electric power steering offered light and easy steering, making it ideal for maneuvering in tight spaces. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corsa E 1.4 Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its comfortable ride, ease of use, and fuel efficiency, but criticized its lack of performance and somewhat dated interior design. Compared to rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo, the Corsa E was often seen as less refined and less engaging to drive. However, it offered a competitive price point and a good level of standard equipment. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures ranging from 6.3 to 6.6 l/100 km (37.3 – 35.6 US mpg). The 1.4 Automatic was generally considered more reliable than the more complex turbocharged engines in the Corsa E range, but it lacked the punch and responsiveness that many drivers desired.
Legacy
The Opel Corsa E 1.4 Automatic has become a relatively affordable and practical used car option. The D14XEL engine is known for its reliability, although regular maintenance is essential. The automatic transmission, while not the most sophisticated, has proven to be generally durable. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and occasional electrical glitches. Today, these Corsas are often sought after by first-time drivers, city commuters, and those looking for a low-cost, reliable runabout. While it may not be the most exciting car on the road, the Corsa E 1.4 Automatic offers a comfortable and convenient driving experience at an attractive price point.
