The Opel Agila II 1.0 (68 hp) ecoFLEX start/stop, produced from 2008 to 2014, represented an entry-level offering within the second generation of the Opel Agila (marketed as the Vauxhall Agila in the UK). This variant was specifically designed with fuel efficiency in mind, leveraging Opel’s ecoFLEX technology and a start/stop system to minimize emissions and maximize economy. Positioned as the most affordable Agila II, it targeted budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and economical city car. The Agila II itself was built upon the GM Gamma platform, shared with other small vehicles like the Chevrolet Kalos and Matiz.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Agila |
| Generation | Agila II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 (68 Hp) ecoFLEX start/stop |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 106 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 90 Nm @ 4800 rpm (66.38 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K10B |
| Engine displacement | 996 cm3 (60.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.9 l (3.06 US qt, 2.55 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt, 3.87 UK qt) |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Length | 3740 mm (147.24 in.) |
| Width | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Height | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2360 mm (92.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion Engine |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Agila II 1.0 ecoFLEX was the K10B engine, a 996cc inline three-cylinder petrol engine. This engine was part of a family of small displacement engines developed by Suzuki and utilized by General Motors in various global markets. The K10B featured multi-point fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio of 11:1 was a compromise between efficiency and the ability to run on readily available fuel grades. The ecoFLEX designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies, most notably the start/stop system which automatically shut off the engine when the vehicle came to a halt, reducing idle fuel consumption. The five-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 68 hp output and 90 Nm (66.38 lb-ft) of torque meant the Agila II 1.0 was not a performance-oriented vehicle. Acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 14-15 seconds. However, the engine proved surprisingly willing and responsive within the city limits. The five-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing for reasonable progress in urban traffic. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often needed to be revved to extract maximum performance. Compared to the more powerful 1.2-liter engine offered in other Agila II variants, the 1.0 felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded or on inclines. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to nimble handling and a comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Agila II 1.0 ecoFLEX start/stop typically came with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS brakes, a driver’s airbag, and basic cloth upholstery. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were electric front windows and a radio/CD player. The interior was functional and utilitarian, with hard-wearing plastics dominating the cabin. Higher trim levels, available with the 1.2-liter engine, offered features like alloy wheels, upgraded upholstery, and more sophisticated audio systems. The focus with the 1.0 was on providing a no-frills, affordable transportation solution.
Chassis & Braking
The Agila II utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of MacPherson struts, while the rear employed a torsion beam setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. Braking was handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. ABS was standard, providing enhanced stopping power and stability. The Agila II’s relatively light weight helped to compensate for the less powerful braking system. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles, helping to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Agila II 1.0 ecoFLEX start/stop was generally well-received by critics for its exceptional fuel economy and low running costs. It was praised as an ideal city car for those seeking an affordable and practical mode of transportation. However, its lack of power and basic equipment levels were also noted. Compared to other small hatchbacks on the market, such as the Fiat Panda and Renault Twingo, the Agila II offered a competitive fuel economy figure and a spacious interior for its size. The 1.2-liter Agila II offered a noticeable performance improvement, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption and a higher price tag. The 1.0 ecoFLEX appealed to a specific segment of buyers prioritizing economy above all else.
Legacy
The Opel Agila II 1.0 ecoFLEX start/stop has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the K10B engine generally regarded as durable and long-lasting. The simplicity of the engine and drivetrain contributes to its robustness. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear on components like the clutch and suspension. On the used car market, these Agilas are often available at very affordable prices, making them an attractive option for first-time car buyers or those seeking a cheap and economical runabout. While not a particularly exciting vehicle, the Agila II 1.0 ecoFLEX fulfilled its intended purpose as a fuel-efficient and practical city car, leaving a legacy as a sensible and affordable transportation solution.
