Vauxhall Corsa Road Test

Vauxhall Corsa

I was advised that the diesels had more power but I was mightily impressed with the one we had. Officially, the 1.2i produces 80PS (79bhp) at 5,600rpm and 110Nm (81lb ft) of torque at 4,000rpm. It takes 13 seconds to reach 60mph from standstill and the top speed is 104mph. These statistics are recorded using the 5-speed manual gearbox for the Easytronic 5-speed automatic with sequential shift, you can add 1.4 seconds to the sprint time, while the 4-speed automatic box isn’t available with this engine size.

This little engine is surprisingly willing and able, especially in the flexible lower gears, however, motorway overtakes require dropping from 5th to 4th gear for the best effect.

Being a small engine, the fuel consumption figures are pretty impressive, too; 36.7mpg and 60.1 mpg for the urban and extra-urban results in a combined of 48.7 mpg. What is more, the CO2 emissions are 139g/km putting the test car in VED Band C (£100) and the 2E insurance group rating makes it even more viable for people on a budget. The test car responded well to being driven with gusto. The positive and speed-sensitive steering offers plenty of feedback, while the stiffer body makes the car feel very stable and agile.

Standard safety features include the now ubiquitous ABS with EBD, Straight line Stability control (SCS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Drag Torque Control (DTC), which helps to stabilise the car if the accelerator pedal is suddenly released, EBA or Emergency Brake Assist and Adaptive Brake Lights that automatically flash when the ABS is activated. ESP with traction control is available as a £400 option or, as part of the Hill Start Assist Pack on Easytronic equipped models.

For the Expression and Life models, the driver and front passenger have only dual-stage airbags but from the Club upwards, these are joined by front-seat-side and curtain airbags.

I was impressed by the New Corsa despite the fact that there is nothing really outstanding about the car. It is simply very driveable, has a great feeling of solidity and, when the circumstances are right, fun, to the point that I would consider buying one. I might need to put aside a week to study the specification and options list but it’s worth it.

Vauxhall Corsa