Opel Corsa E B14XER engine

Overview

The B14XER is a 1.4-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine used in the Opel/Vauxhall Corsa E, produced between 2014 and 2019. It forms part of Opel’s Ecotec engine family, known for combining efficiency, durability, and ease of maintenance. The engine is positioned transversely at the front and powers the front wheels, following a front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout.

With a displacement of 1,398 cm³, the B14XER delivers approximately 90 horsepower (66 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 130 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. While not a performance engine, it offers a smooth and predictable power delivery, well-suited for city driving and light highway use.

Technical Specifications

  • Configuration: Inline-4, DOHC, 16 valves (4 per cylinder)
  • Fuel System: Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
  • Aspiration: Naturally aspirated (no turbocharger)
  • Compression Ratio: 10.5 : 1
  • Bore × Stroke: 73.4 mm × 82.6 mm
  • Emission Standard: Euro 6 compliant
  • Timing System: Chain-driven camshafts
  • Lubrication: Wet-sump system, oil capacity ≈ 4.0 L
  • Cooling System: Water-cooled, coolant capacity ≈ 5.1 L

The undersquare geometry (longer stroke than bore) contributes to better low-end torque, making it flexible in stop-and-go traffic. The DOHC design and variable valve timing improve combustion efficiency and emissions compliance.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Performance is modest but balanced. The Corsa E 1.4 Ecotec (B14XER) accelerates from 0–100 km/h in about 13–14 seconds, depending on transmission and trim level, with a top speed around 170–175 km/h.

Fuel consumption figures average:

  • Urban: 6.6 L/100 km
  • Extra-urban: 4.3 L/100 km
  • Combined: 5.2 L/100 km

These numbers position the B14XER as a fuel-efficient and reliable everyday engine for compact car users who prioritise practicality over power.

Reliability and Maintenance

The B14XER has earned a reputation for robustness and longevity, especially when serviced regularly. Its timing chain eliminates the need for frequent belt replacements, although proper oil quality is vital to prevent chain wear or tensioner noise.

Common owner feedback highlights:

  • Low maintenance costs and good part availability.
  • Minimal oil consumption when serviced regularly.
  • Possible valve-train ticking at high mileage if oil changes are delayed.
  • No known chronic failures under normal conditions.

Routine maintenance includes oil changes every 10,000–15,000 km, replacing spark plugs, air filters, and ensuring coolant health.

Driving Characteristics

The B14XER delivers smooth and predictable power, with decent low-to-mid-range response ideal for urban use. Although its 90 hp output may feel modest on highways or in steep terrain, its linear throttle response and quiet operation make it comfortable for daily commuting.

The engine pairs well with both manual and automatic transmissions, providing a balance of control and convenience. Drivers appreciate the absence of turbo lag, simple mechanical layout, and overall reliability in long-term use.

Summary

In conclusion, the Opel Corsa E B14XER engine is a reliable, efficient, and easy-to-maintain powerplant. It combines traditional naturally aspirated simplicity with modern fuel-injection and valve-timing technology. While it won’t excite performance enthusiasts, it excels as a dependable engine for urban and mixed driving, offering low running costs, Euro 6 emissions compliance, and proven durability within the Ecotec range.