Vauxhall Corsa Review

Vauxhall Corsa Review

I can’t speak for the rest of the team but I have never been a fan of the Vauxhall Corsa…until now.

Recently named as ‘Best Supermini’ and ‘Car of the Year’ at the 2007 What Car? awards, the New Corsa is Vauxhall’s first overall winner since 1980. That in itself is telling but the proof is in the feel and drive of the new car.

The New Corsa is more than just a re-modelling exercise - it feels like a completely different animal to its predecessor. Looking somewhat like a baby Astra, the difference between the 3- and 5-door versions is very distinct.

The three-door hatch has the appearance of a coupe. It sits low, has a low roofline and a high shoulder-line similar to the Astra Sport Hatch. The rear end has a tapered rear window that matches the shape of the lower part of the tailgate and is more gently raked than the 5-door.

The 5-door, on the other hand, is the same as the three from the front bumper to the ‘A-pillars’, which have a steeper angle leading to a more squared-off roofline at the back, to allow for larger rear windows. Both cars are larger than the outgoing models and have a more sportier, muscular look.

The interior has undergone some changes too resulting in a solid, quality feel. With the increase in body size comes improved leg, shoulder and headroom. The fascia is simple and the centre console is nicely angled to make it easy to reach the comfort and audio controls, some of which are translucent and illuminated. The colour of the centre console surround depends on the trim level. For instance, the Expression and Life models have a satin stone-effect, which also makes an appearance as steering wheel inlays. This is also the case for Club models fitted with Charcoal or Asia blue interiors. Alternatively, the Club with Indian Red Interior has a smart-looking Piano-black console, which is standard in the Design and the SXi has a Matt-chrome surround.

When it comes to audio systems, the Expression and Life models have a simple radio/CD player, while the other three trims have MP3 compatibility built in and steering wheel-mounted controls. Satellite navigation will be available in conjunction with the CD60 audio system at some point in the near future.

Vauxhall Corsa