Like the Ford Fiesta, the Vauxhall has been a popular car for many years in the UK, and has been a mainstay in the supermini class. However, the fourth generation car was starting to look tired, and dated, so it was clear it was time for a new model. The fifth generation has been revealed today, featuring a lower weight, more technology, plus there will be the choice to buy an electric version.
More efficient
As well as offering a refreshed looks, the new Corsa has been on a diet, and as a result it’s 10% lighter than the car before, weighing in as little as 980kg. Not only will this make the car more nimble – and theoretically more fun to drive – but it will lower both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
It’s pretty easy on the eye then, but it should also be pretty easy on your wallet, as you would expect a Corsa to be. Despite the car losing its weight, it’s around the same size as the outgoing model, but the latest version is only available as a five-door.
What powertrains will be available?
As mentioned, there will be an electric version available, but what about those of you who crave all things ICE? There will be three engines to choose from; two petrol and one diesel. The entry level petrol will be a 1.2 litre unit which offers 75hp, but I imagine the majority of buyers will opt for the more powerful, turbocharged 1.2 unit which offers 100hp.
Representing the diesel contingent is a 1.5 litre diesel which offers 100hp with 250Nm of torque. The 75hp petrol is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox, whereas the more powerful unit can either be mated to a 6-speed manual, or an 8-speed automatic. Vauxhall has made no mention of the transmissions available for the 1.5 litre diesel, but that’s likely to have the 6-speed manual, and possibly an 8-speed manual.
More tech
One thing I find to be lacking in the last Corsa, but Vauxhall have addressed for the new model as it will be able to boast features such as matrix LED headlights (a first in class), autonomous emergency braking, speed limiter, lane keep assist, and traffic sign recognition. There will also be the choice of either a seven inch or ten inch touchscreen as well as the Vauxhall Connect infotainment system which features navigation with real-time traffic information, plus a direct link to breakdown assistance and emergency service call.
