Vauxhall Corsa Guide
The latest version of the Corsa is quite different from its predecessors; it looks a little like a baby Astra, which is no bad thing.
The Corsa comes in 2 basic body types; 3 and 5-door and each version is quite unique.
The 3-door hatchback looks very much like a coupe. It has a very low slung seating position and the rear window inclines gently giving it a very sleek and sporty look.
The 5-door, looks the same as the 3-door from the front but the windows lead to a squarer roofline at the back. This has allowed Vauxhall to provide space for larger rear windows.
Both versions are available in a bewildering array of specifications.
Interior
Both models are spacious despite their sports styling and, once inside, the interior is well laid out and has a solid, quality feel.
The increased body size that comes with the latest 5 door models gives much more leg and headroom for the driver and passengers and access for the driver and passengers has been improved due to the relatively high roofline.
Even the basic 3 door models offer tilting and sliding seats which make getting in and out of the Corsa a breeze. Seat height adjustment adds to driver comfort.
The dashboard is simple but extremely well laid out and the main console is easily accessible. Unusually in this class, the Corsa offers controls on the steering wheel the fact that the switches are illuminated makes them a joy to use at night.
The Corsa has a huge range of trim and fabric options offering enough choice for even the most discerning buyer.
All Corsa models come with a good quality, great sounding radio/CD player as standard and, thanks to a sensible layout; it is positioned quite high on the dashboard and is easy to use without taking your eyes off the road.
If you opt for a higher specification model you can get a higher quality output and iPod/MP3 compatibility.
For the driver that travels greater distances satellite navigation is also an option.
Storage
The Corsa driver has no shortage of storage space; the boot has a split floor design and, when combined with folding rear seats, offers an impressive 700 litres of potential storage space. There are also a number of storage nooks and crannies scattered around the Corsa's cabin.
One of the most popular options offered with the Corsa is the Flex-fix system. Flex-fix is a rear cycle carrier which can be used to secure two bikes and it is integrated into the rear bumper.
When you pull on a handle in the boot the carrier slides out.
Driving & Handling
Parking in the Corsa is a straightforward affair. The carís light weight, small dimensions and power steering all combine to make the Corsa supremely maneuverable.
These same characteristics make for responsive and agile steering around city streets and country back roads.
Speaking of country roads, the Corsa is no slouch in the handling department and can deal with uneven road surfaces better than most cars in its class.
Engine Options
The Corsa is available in a choice of three petrol and three diesel engines.
Even the basic entry level 1.0-litre petrol engine offers reasonable and affordable performance for a small car. But, if you want more power, 1.2 and 1.4 Litre engines are available.
The diesel engines come in 2 sizes; 1.7 Litre and 1.3 Litre. The 1.3 offers 2 two power output options.
Safety & Security
The Corsa's standard safety features are impressive and include:
- ABS
- Straight line Stability control
- Cornering Brake Control
- Drag Torque Control - this stabilizes the car if the driver takes their foot off the accelerator too sharply
- Emergency Brake Assist is combined with Adaptive Brake Lights activate the brake lights whenever the ABS is employed
An additional option is ESP with traction control which helps to improve hill starts.
The basic Expression and Life models have 2 front airbags but, as you move up the range, side airbags are included.
The Corsa merits an impressive maximum Euro NCAP rating of 5.
From a security perspective the Vauxhall Corsa is well equipped and all models, except the entry level Expression, come with engine immobilizers and remote central locking.
Running Costs
Being a small car you might expect the Corsa's fuel consumption to be low but an extra urban consumption of over 60 mpg is impressive by anyones standards.
CO2 emissions of 139g/km keep the Corsa in the £100 Road Tax bracket and a low insurance group rating of 2 helps to keep the running costs down.
The Vauxhall Corsa should appeal to a variety of buyers with its low purchase price and running costs, combined with an agile and responsive engine.