The Opel Combo Life E 1.5d (130 hp) Start/Stop Automatic is a compact minivan produced by Opel from September 2018 to January 2022. Part of the Combo Life E generation, this variant occupied a mid-range position within the lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability. It was primarily marketed in Europe as a versatile family vehicle, competing with other small MPVs like the Citroën Berlingo and Renault Kangoo. The Combo Life E is based on the PSA Group’s EMP2 platform, shared with the Peugeot Rifter and Citroën Berlingo, and represents Opel’s entry into the increasingly popular leisure activity vehicle (LAV) segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Combo |
| Generation | Combo Life E |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5d (130 Hp) Start/Stop Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2018 |
| End of production | January, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.6-4.8 l/100 km (51.1 – 49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.3 l/100 km (57.4 – 54.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3-4.5 l/100 km (54.7 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 113-118 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D15DTH, F15DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| 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) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 597 l (21.08 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2126 l (75.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Length | 4403 mm (173.35 in.) |
| Width | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1921 mm (75.63 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2107 mm (82.95 in.) |
| Height | 1841 mm (72.48 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 | 10.8-11.0 m (35.43 – 36.09 ft.) |
| Wading depth | 584 mm (22.99 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Combo Life E 1.5d (130 hp) utilizes a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine, specifically the D15DTH or F15DTH engine code depending on the specific production run. This engine is part of the PSA Group’s DV5 family of diesel engines, known for its relatively compact size and efficiency. The engine employs a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output and improve combustion. Fuel is delivered via a common rail direct injection system, allowing for precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. The engine features four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and power delivery. Paired with the engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and contributing to the vehicle’s overall refinement. The Start/Stop system further enhances fuel economy by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
Driving Characteristics
The 130 hp diesel engine, coupled with the eight-speed automatic transmission, provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 10.8 seconds, and the vehicle has a top speed of 114.33 mph. While not particularly sporty, the powertrain delivers sufficient torque (300 Nm or 221 lb-ft) at low engine speeds, making it easy to navigate urban environments and maintain comfortable cruising speeds on the highway. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and responsive shifts. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6-liter diesel variants, the 1.5d offers a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness. However, it doesn’t match the performance of the more powerful petrol engines available in the Combo Life E range. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, prioritizing economy over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Combo Life E 1.5d (130 hp) 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 (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a larger touchscreen display, navigation system, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Optional extras included panoramic sunroof, alloy wheels, and various driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Combo Life E utilizes a conventional front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday use. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels in most configurations. The vehicle is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) as standard, enhancing safety and stability. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Combo Life E 1.5d (130 hp) Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. It was praised as a versatile family vehicle, offering ample space and a flexible interior. However, some critics noted that the interior materials were somewhat basic and that the driving experience wasn’t particularly engaging. Compared to the lower-powered diesel variants, the 1.5d offered a significant improvement in performance, making it a more appealing option for those who frequently carry passengers or cargo. Its fuel economy was competitive with other small MPVs in its class, and its reliability was generally considered to be good.
Legacy
The Opel Combo Life E 1.5d (130 hp) Start/Stop Automatic has established itself as a reliable and practical used car option. The 1.5-liter diesel engine, while not known for being exceptionally long-lived, is generally robust when properly maintained. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly on vehicles used primarily for short journeys. The eight-speed automatic transmission has proven to be relatively reliable. Today, these vehicles represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and versatile family vehicle. The Combo Life E’s enduring popularity is a testament to its practicality and efficiency.
