The latest Vauxhall Corsa is miles better than the car it replaced, offering a much more convincing combination of performance, economy, comfort and fun to drive. It has good looks, boasts one of the best petrol engines in its class, and has benefited greatly from the thoroughly modern platforms shared with the latest version. Peugeot 208.
All the technology on board is up to date as well, but we can’t help but feel that the whole package is a bit pricey; Main competitors like Ford Fiesta and Renault Clio similarly rounded, but better to drive and cheaper to buy.
About Vauxhall Corsa
VauxhallThe latest Corsa is one of the first to emerge after the British brand was taken over by PSA Group. Underneath the Corsa’s all-new bodywork is a shared platform with Peugeot 208along with an all-new petrol engine also shared with its French cousin Corsa.
However, there’s a lot to separate the two closely linked cars. Inside and out, the Vauxhall looks and feels unique; Sharp, modern lines mean the Corsa looks better than ever, while a comfortable interior boasts plenty of good-quality trim and up-to-date technology.
Vauxhall has cut back on previous extended trim levels, though there are still three spec options available, including the Low-end Design, the sporty GS Line, and the flagship Ultimate. The all-electric Corsa-e has a slightly different trim line from only the GS Line and Ultimate. While the range starts at around £17,000, that could push the price to over £29,000 for a top spec tram.
Gasoline engine options include a 1.2-liter, 74-horsepower three-cylinder or a 1.2-liter turbo with either 99 hp or 128 hp. The 99bhp PSA gear won Engine of the Year in 2018 and with good reason; it’s our pick for the balance between surprisingly powerful performance and excellent fuel economy.
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A 1.5-litre diesel was also previously offered in the range, delivering 101bhp, but it is no longer available to order, while those prioritizing lower running costs may find the Corsa- The electric 134bhp e is more appealing.
A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the 74bhp petrol version, while a six-speed manual is available on the 99bhp petrol and 101bhp diesel engines. An eight-speed automatic transmission is offered as an option for the 99-hp petrol version, though is standard with the 128-hp model.
Corsa has been completely reworked from the ground up to take on its rivals in one of the most fiercely competitive market segments. Its closest rivals are excellent ones Ford Fiesta and Renault Clio (ours Supermini of the year), both are at the top of their class as all-rounders, while other capable opponents include slightly older people Volkswagen Polothat is SEAT Ibiza and of course, the Peugeot 208 shares a lot of its mechanics with the Corsa.
Used and almost new
Since its introduction in the UK in 1993, the Vauxhall Corsa has achieved more than two million sales, so there should be a ready supply of used or near-new models to choose from. It’s really the Vauxhall Nova being the first supermini to wear the Griffin badge, with Corsa introduced to attract more buyers. The sporty three-door models are less utilitarian than the family-friendly five-door versions, but if you’re after something wild, then it’s GSi and VXR variations are subject to appeal.
History of Vauxhall Corsa
Vauxhall Corsa Mk4: 2014-2020
The fourth-generation 2014 Corsa (Corsa E) is not an all-new car, but a heavily reworked version of the 2006 model (Corsa D). This means it maintains a spacious, spacious interior and a choice of petrol and diesel engines to match. Equipment level has been enhanced with technology like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included, while you can also specify luxury items like a heated steering wheel, heated seats and automatic climate control. Read our full Mk4 Corsa buyer guide here…
Other Vauxhall Corsa Models
Corsa D: 2006: 2014
The third-generation, three-door Vauxhall Corsa models are marked with sportier trim, while the five-door sedans offer more space for the family. The 2006 model increased the length slightly to just four meters, and Vauxhall introduced working for ECO engine technology with a fuel-saving start/stop system.
Corsa C: 2000 to 2006
The Corsa 2000 model range is similarly styled to the previous line, although Vauxhall has increased in size compared to the original Corsa B, meaning buyers benefit from more interior space. The bodywork is now fully galvanized, while the optional four-valve Ecotec petrol engine and new direct-injection turbo diesel engine deliver increased power, lower fuel consumption and better CO2 emissions. .
Corsa B: 1993 to 2000
With a more curved design, the first Vauxhall Corsa looks completely sophisticated and modern than the Nova supermini. It also offers more interior space and brings new technology that helps it compete with Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo and Peugeot 205. ABS brakes, front airbags and side impact protection mean it offers a new level of safety, while the GSi 16v and turbocharged diesel models also appeal to buyers.
For an alternative review of Vauxhall Corsa, visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk…
