The Opel Combo Life E 1.2 Turbo (130 hp) Automatic is a five-seater minivan produced from July 2019 to January 2022. Part of the Combo Life E generation, it represents Opel’s entry into the leisure activity vehicle (LAV) segment, sharing its platform and many components with the Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Rifter. This variant occupied a mid-range position within the Combo Life lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, practicality, and a more accessible price point compared to higher-powered or more extensively equipped models. The Combo Life E aimed to provide a versatile and affordable transportation solution for families and individuals needing a spacious and adaptable vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Combo |
| Generation | Combo Life E |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2019 |
| End of production | January, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.9-7.1 l/100 km (34.1 – 33.1 US mpg, 40.9 – 39.8 UK mpg, 14.5 – 14.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 156-164 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6.0-6.2 l/100 km (39.2 – 37.9 US mpg, 47.1 – 45.6 UK mpg, 16.7 – 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.7-5.0 l/100 km (50 – 47 US mpg, 60.1 – 56.5 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.2-5.5 l/100 km (45.2 – 42.8 US mpg, 54.3 – 51.4 UK mpg, 19.2 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 119-122 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 186 km/h (115.58 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1750 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F12XHT |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410-1474 kg (3108.52 – 3249.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090-2310 kg (4607.66 – 5092.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 680-836 kg (1499.14 – 1843.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 597 l (21.08 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2126 l (75.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100-150 kg (220.46 – 330.69 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 975-1200 kg (2149.51 – 2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 740-750 kg (1631.42 – 1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50-74 kg (110.23 – 163.14 lbs.) |
| Length | 4403 mm (173.35 in.) |
| Width | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2107 mm (82.95 in.) |
| Height | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2785 mm (109.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1553 mm (61.14 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1567 mm (61.69 in.) |
| Front overhang | 892 mm (35.12 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 726 mm (28.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 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 | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Combo Life E 1.2 Turbo Automatic is powered by Opel’s F12XHT engine, a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Opel’s Small Engine Family (SEF) and utilizes direct fuel injection combined with a turbocharger and intercooler to deliver a respectable 130 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine features a compression ratio of 10.5:1 and four valves per cylinder. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which was designed to optimize fuel efficiency and provide smooth gear changes. This transmission is a crucial component in delivering a comfortable driving experience, particularly in urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 Turbo Automatic powertrain delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 10.7 seconds, and the top speed is 186 km/h (115.58 mph). While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, contributing to a responsive feel. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, it may feel slightly less engaging for drivers who prefer more control. Compared to the more powerful 1.5-liter diesel options, this variant prioritizes refinement and fuel economy over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Combo Life E 1.2 Turbo Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and basic safety features like ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a larger touchscreen, navigation system, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials. The Combo Life E was designed with practicality in mind, offering a flexible interior with sliding rear seats and a large cargo area.
Chassis & Braking
The Combo Life E utilizes a conventional front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. The braking system consists of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride quality. The steering is electrically assisted, offering light and precise control. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis is designed to accommodate the vehicle’s practical nature, prioritizing space and versatility over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Combo Life E 1.2 Turbo Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable family vehicle. It was praised for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Volkswagen Caddy or Renault Kangoo, the Combo Life E offered a competitive price point and a generous amount of standard equipment. Fuel economy figures of 6.9-7.1 l/100 km (34.1-33.1 US mpg) were considered respectable for its class. Reliability reports suggest that the F12XHT engine is generally reliable, although regular maintenance is essential.
Legacy
The Opel Combo Life E 1.2 Turbo Automatic has established itself as a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for families and individuals seeking a versatile and affordable vehicle. The F12XHT engine has proven to be relatively durable, and the eight-speed automatic transmission has generally held up well over time. However, as with any used vehicle, it is important to check for signs of wear and tear and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The Combo Life E continues to be a practical and economical option for those needing a spacious and adaptable minivan.
