Opel Combo Life, 1.6 (115 hp), А6
- Manufacturer -PSMA Rus LLC, Russia
- Year of issue — 2021
- In operation “Behind the wheel” – from August 2021
- Mileage at time of report – 16,000 km
The tester had the chance to experience a Combo with a 1.6 diesel engine rated at 90 hp. The most noticeable contrast with the 115 hp petrol variant is the powertrain pairing: the diesel is exclusively paired with a manual transmission, while the automatic option does not match. This setup partly explains why the gasoline version shows significantly higher fuel consumption in real-world use.
Real-world fuel data reveal that the combined cycle with the petrol engine and automatic transmission averages about 12 l/100 km on a mix of city and highway driving. By comparison, the diesel with a manual transmission consumes roughly one and a half times less fuel. As a practical takeaway, each thousand kilometers driven with the diesel translates to substantial savings in fuel costs, especially in regions where diesel prices are favorable.
On longer highway runs, the tester found that maintaining an efficient pace with the Combo Life could yield fuel consumption around 7–10 l/100 km. With the diesel, even under similar conditions, consumption tended to stay under seven litres per 100 kilometres. The factory figures suggest the petrol engine can accelerate more quickly from a standstill, but the diesel feels notably more responsive in everyday driving, depending on the load and grade. In cabin noise levels, the diesel proves competitive, sometimes even quieter in certain modes. Overall, the diesel engine is solid, though the manual transmission remains a notable trade-off for those seeking automatic comfort.
Inside the cabin, sound levels remain restrained, and the overall driving experience is comfortable for daily errands and longer trips alike. The engine’s refinement and torque delivery contribute to a confident drive, particularly when the vehicle is loaded or climbing grades. The user opinion is that the auto version would add significant convenience, but the current pairing is reliable and straightforward for drivers who prefer a manual gearbox.
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- Additional editorial notes discuss how Opel handles winter conditions and cold starting in various climates.
- Future articles will cover more insights from the editorial fleet and related models.