THE latest Vauxhall Corsa is new from end to end, with big input from new owner Stellantis (Peugeot/Citroen) and an all-electric version that’s grabbing all the headlines.
But despite ageing design, the previous three and five door models offer a version to suit almost every pocket and need, and of course, they are much cheaper!
Apart from the GSi and VXR at the top of the range, most sold between 2014 and 19 offer fairly lowly performance from 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol engines.
But that means they come with low insurance compared to some competitors, down as low as Group 3, making them more affordable for younger or new drivers.
This Corsa is good looking in both three and five door forms and it has decent interior space with comfort and refinement.
All are good to drive because of that comfortable ride, decent noise insulation, and good handling with well weighted power steering.
In the last 2018 revamp, there are no diesels, but among the wide choice of engines from 2014 to 18 was an impressive 1.3 with 73 or 95bhp, and capable of 74 miles per gallon.
Petrol power starts with the 69bhp 1.2, and its government average is 52mpg. Next is the 1.4 already mentioned with either 75 or 88bhp that is slightly more economical and improves on acceleration, bringing up 60 miles an hour from rest in a best of 12.8 seconds.
Then there are two versions of the same 1.4 with added turbo giving either 100 or 150bhp and capable of 55 and 48mpg respectively. They sprint to 60 in very respectable times of 10.6 and 8.6 seconds
Finally, there is a three cylinder 1.0-litre turbo with 90 or 113bhp and it has an offical economy of 57mpg while reaching 60 in 11.5 or 10 seconds.
Both 1.0 and 1.4T units are smooth and peppy, but most models out there will have either the 69bhp 1.2 or the non-turbo 1.4.
Some models have sports suspension and this can spoil the otherwise good ride, and while they might improve the looks to some eyes, larger wheels and lower profile tyres also have a detrimental effect on comfort.
The Corsa is often among the top sellers in the sales charts so there are plenty to choose from both in the dealers and privately.
Only consider the very best you can find with full service history, and don’t be bamboozled by the large number of special editions. Dealers will tell you they have added spec, but that’s not worth much a couple of years down the line.
The Corsa is nimble and safe through corners, with excellent grip and tenacious roadholding allied to neutral handling.
Inside, there is loads of seat adjustment for the driver and a folding rear seat to get larger items in more easily.
Design models and above have the easy to use Vauxhall Intellilink touch screen for media, sat nav where fitted, USB connection and Bluetooth.
There are eight trim levels plus all the special editions, and most come with a good level of equipment.
All have cruise control and a very useful heated windscreen for the winter months. Base Active also comes with remote locking, electric front windows, hill start assist, alloy wheels and USB and Bluetooth connections.
Energy models add air con, the Intellilink touch screen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, automatic lights and wipers and electric mirrors.
Pay about £6,350 for a ’16 16-reg 1.4 SRi five door, or £8,600 for a ’18 18-reg 1.0T ecoflex Energy three door.
Source: https://www.eurekar.co.uk/articles/2021-12-31/vauxhall-corsa—used-car-review