The Opel Corsa E 5-door 1.0 Turbo ECOTEC (115 hp) start&stop was a popular subcompact hatchback produced from January 2015 to June 2018. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Corsa E lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance. This variant was a key component of Opel’s strategy to offer a modern, technologically advanced small car to European consumers. It represented the fourth generation of the Corsa, built on the General Motors Gamma II platform, also shared with other vehicles like the Chevrolet Trax and Buick Encore. The 1.0 Turbo ECOTEC engine was a significant departure from previous Corsa engines, introducing direct injection and turbocharging to the model range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa E 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 Turbo ECOTEC (115 Hp) start&stop |
| Start of production | January, 2015 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 151.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5000-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 115.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 1800-4500 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B10XFT |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.4 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1124 kg (2478 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 541 kg (1192.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1120 l (39.55 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Length | 4021 mm (158.31 in.) |
| Width | 1746 mm (68.74 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1944 mm (76.54 in.) |
| Height | 1481 mm (58.31 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 | 185/70 R14 88T; 185/65 R15 88H |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14; 6.0J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Corsa variant is the B10XFT, a 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine. This engine is part of Opel’s ECOTEC family, known for its focus on efficiency and reduced emissions. The B10XFT utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that precisely meters fuel into the combustion chamber, improving combustion efficiency and reducing knock. The engine also features a single-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler, which helps to increase power output by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine’s aluminum block contributes to weight savings. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a good balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s torque output at lower RPMs, aiding in everyday drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 115 hp 1.0 Turbo ECOTEC engine provided adequate performance for typical urban and highway driving. While not a sports car, it offered a noticeable improvement in acceleration compared to the naturally aspirated engines available in earlier Corsa models. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.8 seconds is respectable for a car in this class. The turbocharger does introduce a slight amount of turbo lag, but the engine pulls strongly once it spools up. The manual transmission allows for precise control, and the gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s powerband. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 Turbo models, this variant prioritized fuel economy over outright speed. The handling was typical of a small hatchback – nimble and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Corsa E 1.0 Turbo ECOTEC (115 hp) typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Enjoy’ or ‘Cosmo’ offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa E utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent 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 typically solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise steering feel. The chassis was designed to be lightweight, contributing to the car’s overall efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corsa E 1.0 Turbo ECOTEC (115 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and modern features. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel a bit strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other engines in the Corsa E lineup, such as the 1.4 Turbo, this variant offered a more affordable entry point with a focus on economy. It competed with other subcompact hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Renault Clio.
Legacy
The B10XFT engine proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although like any turbocharged engine, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes with the correct specification oil. The Corsa E 1.0 Turbo ECOTEC (115 hp) remains a popular choice on the used car market, particularly for buyers looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient city car. Its combination of practicality, economy, and modern features has ensured its continued appeal. While not a performance icon, it represents a significant step forward in terms of technology and efficiency for the Opel Corsa.
