Vauxhall Corsa E 1.4i Turbo ecoFLEX (100 Hp) startstop

The Vauxhall Corsa E 1.4i Turbo ecoFLEX (100 Hp) start/stop: A European Supermini Standard-Bearer

The Vauxhall Corsa E, produced from 2014 to April 2018, represents the fifth generation of a highly successful supermini (B-segment) vehicle primarily marketed in Europe. Badged as an Opel Corsa across most of the continent, it was sold as a Vauxhall in the United Kingdom, a market where the Corsa has consistently ranked among the best-selling cars for decades. This generation built upon its predecessors’ reputation for affordability, practicality, and urban maneuverability, introducing significant updates in design, technology, and powertrain efficiency. The specific variant under examination, the Vauxhall Corsa E 1.4i Turbo ecoFLEX (100 Hp) start/stop, epitomized the model’s push towards downsized, turbocharged engines combined with advanced fuel-saving technologies, aiming to deliver a compelling balance of performance and economy for the discerning European driver.

Engineering and Performance: The Heart of the Vauxhall Corsa E 1.4i Turbo ecoFLEX (100 Hp) start/stop

At the core of this particular Corsa E model was a modern, transversely mounted 1.4-liter (1364 cm³ or 83.24 cu. in.) inline-four gasoline engine, internally designated B14NEJ. This powerplant was a prime example of the automotive industry’s trend towards smaller displacement engines bolstered by turbocharging and intercooling to achieve both robust performance and improved fuel efficiency. Delivering 100 horsepower (Hp) at a broad range of 3500-6000 rpm, the engine provided ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. More significantly, it produced a healthy 147.51 lb.-ft. of torque, available from a low 1850 rpm and sustained up to 3500 rpm. This wide torque band ensured responsive acceleration and reduced the need for frequent gear changes, enhancing the driving experience.

The ecoFLEX designation highlighted Vauxhall’s commitment to environmental responsibility. This was further emphasized by the inclusion of a Start/Stop system, which automatically shut off the engine when the vehicle was stationary in traffic and seamlessly restarted it upon clutch engagement or brake release. This technology, combined with the efficient turbocharger, contributed to impressive fuel economy figures: an estimated 36.8 US mpg in urban settings, 54.7 US mpg on the highway, and a combined 46.1 US mpg. With CO2 emissions of 119 g/km, the Corsa E 1.4i Turbo ecoFLEX met the stringent Euro 6 emission standards, showcasing its ecological credentials. Power was delivered to the front wheels via a precise 6-speed manual transmission, offering driver engagement and optimizing the engine’s power delivery across various speeds. Performance metrics included a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 10.5 seconds and a top speed of 114.95 mph, making it a capable performer within its segment.

Design and Features

The Corsa E retained the familiar 5-door hatchback body style, a popular choice in the supermini segment for its blend of compact dimensions and practical interior space. Measuring 158.31 inches in length, 76.54 inches in width (including mirrors), and 58.31 inches in height, the Corsa E was designed for agile urban navigation. Its 98.82-inch wheelbase provided a stable ride while maintaining a tight minimum turning circle of 36.09 feet, making parking and maneuvering in crowded cityscapes remarkably easy.

Inside, the Corsa E offered seating for five occupants, a testament to its clever packaging. The interior design represented a significant step up from its predecessor, featuring higher-quality materials, improved ergonomics, and a more modern aesthetic. Standard and optional features for the era included an infotainment system with a touchscreen display, connectivity options, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. While not equipped with the most advanced autonomous driving aids found in premium vehicles, the Corsa E included essential safety systems such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, ensuring secure braking performance. The vehicle’s practicality was further underscored by its versatile cargo capacity: a minimum trunk space of 9.89 cubic feet, expandable to a generous 38.49 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, catering to varying passenger and cargo needs.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Vauxhall Corsa E continued the model’s illustrious legacy in the highly competitive European supermini segment. It faced formidable rivals such as the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, Peugeot 208, and Skoda Fabia, all vying for market share among consumers seeking compact, efficient, and well-equipped vehicles. Despite the intense competition, the Corsa E maintained its strong sales performance, particularly in the UK, where it consistently ranked among the top-selling cars. Its reputation for being a reliable, affordable, and practical choice made it a popular option for first-time car buyers, small families, and urban commuters alike.

The Corsa E generation was particularly significant for its enhanced interior quality and refinement, addressing previous criticisms and bringing it more in line with segment leaders. The introduction of downsized, turbocharged engines like the 1.4i Turbo ecoFLEX, coupled with fuel-saving technologies like Start/Stop, underscored a broader industry shift towards efficiency and lower emissions. This focus on modern powertrain technology, combined with improved ride comfort and handling dynamics, helped the Corsa E remain relevant and appealing throughout its production run. Its success solidified Vauxhall’s position in the UK market before the brand, along with Opel, became part of Groupe PSA (now Stellantis) in 2017, marking a new chapter for the Corsa line. The Vauxhall Corsa E 1.4i Turbo ecoFLEX (100 Hp) start/stop, therefore, stands as a testament to effective engineering and market positioning, providing a practical and environmentally conscious option that resonated deeply with its target audience in Europe.