The fifth-generation Opel/Vauxhall Corsa comes with new engines and transmissions, a totally redesigned chassis lowering the central of gravity, lots of gadgets but the same compact dimensions as before. But can it beat the Fiesta?
It's nice to see a small car actually remaining small in the long run. Vauxhall's research concluded that buyers like the maneuverability that comes with the current Corsa's 157.4 inch length, so the new one is the same size despite having all new body panels. Well done!
Just like the Adam, the new Corsa is getting GM's 1-liter three-cylinder direct-injection turbo with either 90 or 115 horsepower and 125 ft lb of torque available from 1,800rpm. Start/stop comes as standard.
Other engine options include a 1.4 turbo engine with 100 hp and 147 ft lb. The base engines are the naturally aspirated ones with either 1.2 or 1.4 of displacement, while the current Corsa's 1.3 CDTi diesel has been upgraded to meet to Euro 6 emissions standards. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual while a six-speed automatic is optional.
All suspension components are new and the Corsa's center of gravity was lowered by 0.2 inches while the front sub-frame is also stiffer for more precise handling.
The steering is speed sensitive now, the dampers are adjustable and Vauxhall claims to have cured understeer, too, despite the lack of a proper differential. Electronic nannies include hill start assist, self parking and tire pressure monitoring.
Inside, there's a new instrument panel with a 7-inch touchscreen in the middle featuring IntelliLink with BringGo, Stitcher and TuneIn. The system knows both Apple and Android phones and incorporates voice command, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free and FlexDock.
The new model will also be available with heated front seats, steering wheel and windscreen, ambient lighting and a full-size panoramic roof. The top of the range Corsa will also have sensors giving drivers blindspot alert, high beam assist, lane departure warning, bi-xenons and a rear-view camera.
Because you really need that in a 4 meter long car...