The Opel Corsa E 3-door 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC (95 hp) start/stop 6M was a subcompact hatchback produced from January 2015 to June 2018. Positioned as an entry-level diesel offering within the Corsa E range, it aimed to provide fuel efficiency and reasonable running costs to budget-conscious buyers. This variant was part of the fifth generation Corsa (Corsa E), built on the General Motors Gamma II platform, and represented Opel’s attempt to compete in the increasingly competitive European small car segment. The three-door body style offered a slightly sportier aesthetic compared to the five-door model, appealing to a younger demographic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa E 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC (95 Hp) start/stop 6M |
| Start of production | January, 2015 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg, 83.1 UK mpg, 29.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 101 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 | 177 km/h (109.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 81.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B13DTE |
| 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 | 16.25:1 |
| 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) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1162 kg (2561.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 503 kg (1108.93 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1090 l (38.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1150 kg (2535.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Length | 4021 mm (158.31 in.) |
| Width | 1736 mm (68.35 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1944 mm (76.54 in.) |
| Height | 1479 mm (58.23 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 | 11.00 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 88H; 185/70 R14 88T |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15; 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Corsa E 1.3 CDTI utilized the B13DTE engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was part of Opel/Fiat’s family of small-displacement diesel engines, known for its fuel efficiency. It featured a turbocharger with intercooling to boost power output, and a common rail direct fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery. The engine produced 95 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 3500 rpm. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 16.25:1 contributed to its efficiency. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a good balance between fuel economy and drivability. The start/stop system further enhanced fuel savings in urban driving conditions by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle was stationary.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 CDTI 95 hp engine, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, offered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.7 seconds, and top speed was 177 km/h (109.98 mph). While not particularly sporty, the engine provided sufficient torque for comfortable cruising and overtaking on highways. The gear ratios were well-chosen to maximize fuel efficiency, but this sometimes came at the expense of outright acceleration. Compared to higher-output Corsa E variants, such as the 1.4 Turbo, the 1.3 CDTI felt noticeably slower. However, it offered significantly better fuel economy. The manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience than the optional automatic, allowing drivers to better control the engine’s power delivery.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC 95 hp model typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on practicality and affordability. Standard features included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Enjoy’ and ‘Cosmo’, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, a touchscreen infotainment system, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, and heated seats.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa E featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling. The relatively lightweight construction of the Corsa E contributed to its nimble handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Corsa E 1.3 CDTI was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and low running costs. It was seen as a practical and affordable option for urban commuters and first-time car buyers. However, some reviewers criticized its lack of power and somewhat basic interior. Compared to other diesel-powered subcompacts, such as the Volkswagen Polo and the Ford Fiesta, the Corsa E offered a competitive level of fuel economy and value for money. The 1.3 CDTI was often seen as a more sensible choice than the higher-powered petrol variants, particularly for drivers who prioritized fuel efficiency over performance.
Legacy
The 1.3 CDTI engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Owners should ensure the vehicle is used on longer journeys periodically to allow the DPF to regenerate effectively. The Corsa E 1.3 CDTI has become a popular choice in the used car market due to its affordability and fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with diesel engines, particularly as they age. Overall, the Corsa E 1.3 CDTI remains a practical and economical option for those seeking a small, fuel-efficient hatchback.
