The Opel Corsa E 3-door 1.4 Turbo (100 hp) was a front-wheel-drive hatchback produced between May 2018 and June 2019. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Corsa E lineup, it aimed to provide a balance between fuel efficiency and performance for buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than the base models. This variant was primarily sold in European markets, where the Corsa had long been a popular supermini. It represented the fifth generation of the Corsa, built on the GM’s Common Platform (Gamma II), and was a key competitor in the highly contested subcompact car segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa E 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 Turbo (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | May, 2018 |
| End of production | June, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 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) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6-5.0 l/100 km (51.1 – 47 US mpg, 61.4 – 56.5 UK mpg, 21.7 – 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5-5.8 l/100 km (42.8 – 40.6 US mpg, 51.4 – 48.7 UK mpg, 18.2 – 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 125-132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 3500-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 3000-4500 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 3000-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D14NEJ |
| Engine displacement | 1364 cm3 (83.24 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.5 mm (2.85 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1139 kg (2511.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1680 kg (3703.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 541 kg (1192.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l (9.89 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| 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 | 11.2 m (36.75 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 brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14; 185/65 R15; 195/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15; 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Corsa E 1.4 Turbo utilized the D14NEJ engine code, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was part of Opel/Vauxhall’s family of small displacement turbocharged engines, designed to offer a balance of power and efficiency. It featured multi-point fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance. The engine’s valvetrain employed double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high specific output. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing precise gear changes and a more engaging driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s torque delivery, offering reasonable acceleration and highway cruising ability.
Driving Characteristics
The 100 hp 1.4 Turbo engine provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered naturally aspirated engines available in the Corsa E range. While not a sports car, the 1.4 Turbo offered brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 10.5 seconds. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power during mid-range acceleration, making overtaking maneuvers easier. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, and the gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s powerband. Compared to the more economical 1.0-liter engine, the 1.4 Turbo offered a more refined and responsive driving experience. However, it didn’t possess the outright performance of the higher-spec models, such as those equipped with larger engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Turbo trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, cruise control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a more advanced audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa E 3-door featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Corsa E 1.4 Turbo was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its responsive engine, comfortable ride, and relatively low running costs. Compared to other superminis in its class, such as the Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta, the Corsa E 1.4 Turbo offered a competitive level of equipment and performance. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined fuel consumption figures ranging from 5.5 to 5.8 liters per 100 kilometers. Reliability was generally considered average, with some reports of minor issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection system. However, these issues were not widespread.
Legacy
The Opel Corsa E 1.4 Turbo remains a relatively affordable and practical used car option. The D14NEJ engine is generally considered reliable, provided it has been properly maintained. Regular oil changes and adherence to the manufacturer’s service schedule are crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. The availability of spare parts is good, and the Corsa E is relatively easy to repair. While it may not offer the same level of refinement or technology as more modern superminis, the Corsa E 1.4 Turbo provides a solid and dependable driving experience for those seeking a budget-friendly and fuel-efficient hatchback.
