Vauxhall Corsa ReviewJanuary 14 2009

The current Vauxhall Corsa, unlike its somewhat un-exciting predecessor, provides excellent stability, decent body control and positive steering. It’s reassuringly easy to drive, (a characteristic noted by Driving Instructors who voted the Corsa the “Best Car to Learn In“, last year) even if it doesn’t raise the adrenalin levels like a hot hatch.

The 1.3-litre diesel version, while not exactly fast, offers a decent amount of punch in its mid-range. With a six-speed gearbox, there’s no need to use all the revs (handy, as this model is a bit noisy at higher engine speeds). The 1.6-litre turbo of the Sri model, meanwhile, has plenty of ‘oomph’, and provides a lively, exciting driving experience.

Racy & Stylish

From the front, both three-door and five-door Corsas look very similar. Further back, the three-door’s arched profile is racy and stylish, the five-door version in an attempt to appeal in the family market, perhaps, looks a bit more conservative.

What marks the Corsa out from its rivals is its sporty range of SXi and SRi models: Vauxhall seems keener to satisfy those drivers who are looking for hotter performance and aspirational styling from a mainstream car. Interior finish too is high quality for a car in the super-mini class.

The apparently small details, like translucent switches, piano-black surrounds, chrome trim and a ’speckle’-effect upper dash, with well designed, easy to read and stylish dials add up to a ‘look’ which is more in keeping with more up-market offerings.

Driving position is excellent, and a good range of wheel and seat movement is possible
Running costs for the Corsa are competitive and servicing costs are very low; intervals between services are long, too! The diesel’s official overall economy is an impressive average of 61.4mpg.

Perrys is a top Vauxhall Dealer, and has some great deals available on both new and used Corsas – take a look!