1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo
The new generation three-cylinder engine that powers the new Corsa has been developed from a white sheet of paper. It is the first of a new family of small gasoline three and four-cylinder units that will be progressively introduced in the Opel range. A three-cylinder architecture has been selected to reach new levels of fuel efficiency for gasoline-powered cars. As some customers hesitate to opt for a three cylinder engines due to their rather high level of noise and vibrations, the 200 engineers who developed Opel's new generation unit in Rüsselsheim over the last three and a half years put comfort at the top of their development priority list. As a result, Opel's three cylinder is the most silent and the quietest three-cylinder unit on the market place. Numerous sound engineering measures contribute to the engine's benchmark refinement, as 40 components and sub-groups have been acoustically-optimized from the beginning of the development - such as the cylinder block as well as the structurally isolated fuel injection system and crankshaft. In addition, a sump-mounted counter-rotating balance shaft further reduces noise and vibrations. This is a universally unique feature for a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine.
Second development priority of the new-generation 1.0-liter, three-cylinder engine was to deliver excellent responsiveness - so, not only the quietness, but also the pleasure provided should surprise customers. Both versions with 66 kW/90 hp and 85 kW/115 hp excel in delivering strong low-end torque with extreme efficiency, pumping out 170 Nm from just 1,800 rpm. This is particularly evident during acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h, a decisive speed range for overtaking, when this compact powerhouse belies its size by delivering strong power from low rpm. Propelled by the 115 hp version, the Corsa makes this transition in just 10.4 seconds.
Start/Stop technology is fitted as standard with both versions of the 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo. This helps them to boast excellent fuel economy: the 90 hp, three-door Corsa consumes just 4.3 l/100 km over the combined cycle, equating to only 100 g/km CO2 emissions.
State-of-the-art technologies in Opel's new generation three-cylinder engine include high-pressure direct fuel injection, an ultra-compact turbocharging system and continuously variable valve timing (intake and exhaust sides). Lightweight, all-aluminum construction, with a cylinder head-integrated exhaust manifold, contributes to low weight: the 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo tips the scales at just 106 kg. The engine is mated to an all-new, compact six-speed manual gearbox. Highlights include greater efficiency, thanks to low friction design and a precise shift feel.