The Opel Corsa D (Facelift, produced from 2011 to August 2014) 3-door 1.3 CDTI, equipped with a 95 horsepower diesel engine, represented a key offering in the European subcompact market. This variant, powered by the A13DTR engine, was positioned as an economical and practical choice for buyers seeking low running costs and reasonable performance in a small package. It sat within the broader Corsa D range, which was based on the GM Gamma platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), and aimed to appeal to a broad demographic, particularly first-time car buyers and those needing an efficient city vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa D (Facelift 2011) 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 CDTI (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | August, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp, 84.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 168.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A13DTR |
| 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 | 16.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1130 kg (2491.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1555 kg (3428.19 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3999 mm (157.44 in.) |
| Width | 1737 mm (68.39 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1944 mm (76.54 in.) |
| Height | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2511 mm (98.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Corsa variant is the 1.3-liter (1248 cc) A13DTR inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a common rail direct injection (CDTI) unit, meaning fuel is delivered to the cylinders at extremely high pressure via a common rail system, optimizing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The A13DTR features a turbocharger with an intercooler, which forces more air into the engine, boosting power output. The engine produces 95 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This torque curve provides good low-end responsiveness, making it suitable for everyday driving. The engine’s 16.8:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its efficiency. The engine was paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this trim level.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 CDTI 95 hp Corsa D offered a balance between fuel economy and usability. While not a performance-oriented model, the engine provided adequate power for city driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 12.3 seconds, and top speed was approximately 173 km/h (107.5 mph). The 6-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal torque band, maximizing efficiency and responsiveness. Compared to higher-output Corsa variants, such as those with larger gasoline engines, this diesel model prioritized fuel economy over outright speed. The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, with a relatively long final drive to further enhance fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3-door Corsa D 1.3 CDTI 95 hp typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on practicality and affordability. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS brakes, driver and passenger airbags, and basic audio system. Higher trim levels, available as options, could add features like air conditioning, alloy wheels, electric windows, and a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. The 3-door configuration emphasized a sportier aesthetic, appealing to younger buyers or those prioritizing a more compact footprint.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa D utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were typically disc brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes on the base models, with disc brakes available on higher trim levels. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The relatively lightweight nature of the Corsa D contributed to its agility and maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Corsa D 1.3 CDTI 95 hp was generally well-received in the European market as a practical and economical choice. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but some noted its modest performance. Compared to other subcompact diesels, such as the Volkswagen Polo or Peugeot 207, the Corsa offered a competitive price point and a good level of standard equipment. The 1.3 CDTI engine was known for its reliability, although regular maintenance was essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Fuel economy figures of around 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg) were typical, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Legacy
The A13DTR engine, found in this Corsa variant, proved to be a relatively durable and reliable unit when properly maintained. Today, used examples of the Corsa D 1.3 CDTI are still relatively common on the used car market. While age and mileage can affect reliability, these cars generally offer good value for money. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and potential problems with the turbocharger. However, with regular servicing and attention to maintenance, these Corsas can provide years of reliable transportation. The Corsa D 1.3 CDTI remains a popular choice for those seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient city car.
