The Opel Cascada 2.0 CDTI (165 Hp) Ecotec Automatic, produced from January 2013 to August 2015, represents a mid-range offering within the Cascada lineup. The Cascada itself was Opel’s entry into the mid-size convertible market, aiming to provide a stylish and relatively affordable alternative to premium brands. This particular variant, powered by the A20DTH engine and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a comfortable and efficient grand tourer, appealing to buyers prioritizing ease of driving over outright performance. It was built on the GM Delta platform, shared with other Opel/Vauxhall and Chevrolet models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Cascada |
| Generation | Cascada |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (165 Hp) Ecotec Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 2013 |
| End of production | August, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 163-164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 205.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1956 cm3 (119.36 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 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 (turning diameter) | 12.2 m (40.03 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 | 6 gears, automatic 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 2.0 CDTI Automatic lies the A20DTH engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Opel’s Ecotec family, known for its focus on efficiency and refinement. The A20DTH utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with intercooling further enhances performance, providing increased air intake to the engine. The engine produces 165 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This torque output is a key characteristic of diesel engines, providing strong pulling power at lower engine speeds. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smooth shifting and responsiveness. It’s a conventional torque converter automatic, prioritizing comfort over the more aggressive shifts found in dual-clutch transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 CDTI Automatic Cascada offers a relaxed and comfortable driving experience. The automatic transmission effectively manages the engine’s torque, providing smooth acceleration in most situations. While not a sports car, the 165 hp engine provides adequate power for highway cruising and overtaking. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.9 seconds is respectable, but noticeably slower than the more powerful 2.0 Turbo petrol variants. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning it doesn’t always hold gears as long as a manual transmission would for maximum acceleration. The focus is on providing a refined and effortless driving experience, making it well-suited for long journeys. The steering is light and precise, contributing to the car’s ease of handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cascada 2.0 CDTI Automatic typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as Sport or Elegance, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and upgraded sound systems. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on base models, with leather available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was clean and modern, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Cascada’s chassis is based on the GM Delta platform, providing a good balance of comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link setup. This configuration helps to absorb bumps and provide a stable ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The Cascada’s weight, ranging from 1701 to 1816 kg (3750 to 4003 lbs), is relatively high for a mid-size convertible, which impacts handling agility to some extent.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Cascada 2.0 CDTI Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined engine, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that it wasn’t as engaging to drive as some of its rivals, and the interior quality, while good, didn’t quite match that of premium competitors. Compared to the petrol-powered Cascada variants, the 2.0 CDTI offered significantly better fuel economy. Against other diesel-powered convertibles in its class, the Cascada provided a competitive combination of price, features, and efficiency. The 1.4 Turbo petrol version was a more affordable entry point, while the 2.0 Turbo offered more performance but at a higher cost.
Legacy
The A20DTH engine, in general, has proven to be a reliable unit when properly maintained. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly on vehicles used primarily for short journeys. Regular servicing, including oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for long-term reliability. The six-speed Aisin automatic transmission is also generally robust. On the used car market, the Cascada 2.0 CDTI Automatic represents a relatively affordable and practical convertible option. Its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride make it a good choice for buyers looking for a stylish and economical grand tourer. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential DPF issues and ensure the vehicle has been well-maintained.
