With a little Gallic assistance, Vauxhall has rejuvenated its Corsa supermini to make sure it stays relevant to buyers in this crowded market. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Review

Time, perhaps, to change the way you feel about Vauxhall's Corsa. This fifth generation version has been a huge sales success for the brand, frequently the UK's best selling car. But it needed a bit more showroom appeal, hence the importance of this mid-term update, which brings the front end look into line with the brand's other models and introduces some new electrified drivetrain tech for both combustion and EV variants.

Background

The 'F' generation of Vauxhall's Corsa, introduced in 2019, has proved to be a bit of a surprise hit for the Stellantis Group in the UK, frequently the nation's best seller. Which must be gratifying for that parent conglomerate because the costs of developing it weren't too huge, pretty much all the engineering shared with the current Peugeot 208 (as well as with the DS 3), both those French models sharing this Vauxhall's CMP platform. Here, we're looking at the facelifted version of this current Corsa (actually the sixth generation Corsa for Opel but the fifth generation for Vauxhall). This update arrived in mid-2023 and aims to keep this supermini at the head of the sales charts. Let's take a closer look.

Driving Experience

There are some key drivetrain changes with this revised model. For the first time, the Corsa gains mild hybrid tech, a 48V system offered with a new generation 1.2-litre three cylinder petrol unit developing either 100PS or 136PS and coupled with a dual-clutch 6-speed electrified auto gearbox that incorporates an electric motor. Most mainstream Corsas though, will still be sold with the old un-electrified 1.2-litre petrol unit from the earlier version of this fifth generation design, offering 100PS. The other drivetrain option is the full-EV Corsa Electric derivative. That variant's original 50kWh battery and 136PS electric motor combination continues, offering up to 221 miles of range. But EV Corsa customers can also now choose a more sophisticated 51kWh battery paired with a more powerful 156PS motor, this set-up boosting EV range to as much as 266 miles. Expect moderately rapid performance, with 62mph dispatched in under 9 seconds. Bear in mind that the Corsa Electric is around 350kgs heavier than the ordinary version. Otherwise, things are as before with this MK5 Corsa's drive dynamics. These haven't been tuned specifically to British roads - as the brand has very effectively done with previous generation Corsa models, but that wasn't possible this time round. Something evidenced, for example, by the way the slightly over-light steering hasn't been tweaked for the twistier, more challenging tarmac common in our market - as previously, it might usually have been. The ride quality can't match the kind of thing you get in a rival Volkswagen Polo - few superminis can do that - and the fairly basic torsion beam rear suspension that all small cars feature means you'll certainly feel speed humps and crumbling pot holes. Overall though, what's served up in this Corsa is a firm but supple standard of damping that works as well on the open road as it does around town.

Design and Build

This updated Corsa now fits visually in with the rest of the latest Vauxhall range, thanks to the adoption of the brand's distinctive 'Vizor'-style front grille, a single solid black panel with a restyled Grifin badge. That panel's flanked by slightly more squared-off slimline LED headlights which on top variants can feature the brand's 'IntelliLux matrix pixel tech. As before, it all sits on Peugeot 208 underpinnings, which means the Stellantis Group's 'CMP' 'Common Modular Platform' and body panels fashioned from a range of high-strength steels. Inside with this updated model, the infotainment system has been upgraded to a 10-inch screen that runs a more sophisticated user interface powered by Qualcomm's 'Snapdragon Cockpit' platform. Wireless 'Apple CarPlay' and 'Android Auto' smartphone-mirroring is now included, as is 'Connected 3D' navigation, over-the-air software updates and "Hey Vauxhall" voice control. The 7-inch digital instrument screen has also been improved, with sharper graphics: and a wireless charging mat is being offered for the first time. Other cabin changes include fresh upholstery choices, a redesign for the steering wheel and gear selector - and a revised high-resolution wide-view rear camera. As before, space is at a bit of a premium for those in the rear seat, but the curvature of the front seat backs is designed to improve knee room, there's a notably low centre transmission tunnel and there's lots of room to poke your feet beneath those front chairs. The boot is 309-litres in size, regardless of your choice between combustion or EV power. It's quite a usable, squarically-sized space, with 885mm of length and 867mm of width. Folding the straightforward 60:40-split rear bench reveals 1,118-litres of capacity when you load to the roof.

Market and Model

If you'd got used to Corsa pricing for base models being in the £14,000 to £16,500 bracket (which is where it's been in recent years), you might need a cup of hot sweet tea after perusal of the figures being asked for this fifth generation French-inspired version, which start from around £19,000 for the feeblest 1.2-litre base-spec petrol variant. That's for base 'YES'-spec. Affordable 'Design' spec is next, then mid-range 'GS' trim and then top 'Ultimate' trim, which with a combustion engine now costs from around £26,000. The Hybrid versions start from around £23,000. The Corsa Electric sells in the £27,000-£35,000 bracket across for trim levels ('YES', 'Design', 'GS' and 'Ultimate'). With a Corsa Electric in 'YES' trim, you can only have the old 136PS powertrain; with the other trim levels, there's the option of finding around £1,400 more for the Long Range 156PS powertrain. Got that? Good. Across the range, five doors are mandatory of course. On combustion models, there's the option of auto transmission - around £1,700 more on petrol versions only. Even the most basic 'Design' derivatives are quite well equipped, fitted with an Automatic Emergency Braking function featuring Pedestrian Detection. Plus LED headlights with daytime running lights, High Beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Cruise Control with Intelligent Speed Limiter and a 10-inch colour touchscreen with Bluetooth, AM/FAM/DAB digital radio as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.

Cost of Ownership

Huge efforts have gone in here to improve running cost efficiency by saving weight. As a result, expect the unelectrified 1.2-litre PureTech petrol variants that many still will want to be very acceptably clean and frugal. With the 100PS model, you can expect to manage 57.6mpg on the WLTP combined cycle and return a CO2 reading of up to 118g/km, which is pretty good going for a car in this segment. For the Hybrid version, it's up to 62.8mpg and up to 104g/km. But of course if you're really interested in ecological efficiency, there'll be just one variant of this car that'll interest you, the Corsa Electric. For the 50kWh version of this derivative, Vauxhall claims a WLTP-rated driving range between charges of between 215-221 miles. The newer 51kWh version of this powertrain boosts that figure to 262-266 miles. All the latest Corsa Electric models come as standard with an 11kW on-board charger, allowing for a 0-100% charge to be completed in 5hrs and 15 minutes. The same full charge using a 7kW home wallbox is estimated to take 7hrs and 30 minutes. Supporting 100kW rapid charging, a typical 10%-80% charge will take just 30 minutes.

Summary

Ultimately, what we're looking at here is a Corsa that can. It can be fun to drive. It can deliver a big car feel. And it can stack up well on the balance sheet. It's a small Vauxhall for which no apologies need to be made. All that will worry obvious supermini rivals. After all, in its original form, this MK5 model was already a best seller. In this updated form, it aims to become a supermini that sells on more than just sheer value. It's not perfect of course. It doesn't lead its class in terms of either space, efficiency or driving dynamics. And the truth is that for all the electrified headlines here, most sales will still be of models fitted with either an aging unelectrified 1.2-litre petrol unit or the older version of the Stellantis Group's EV powertrain. But things are changing - and this Corsa is too. Add to that the wide model line-up and the likely deals on offer and you've a supermini that more than ever, needs to remain high on any family's shopping list.

Body Glass

Rear wiper

Rain sensitive windscreen wipers

Two speed windscreen wipers with variable intermittent wipe

Solar heat absorbing windscreen

Glazed tailgate and heated rear window with wash/wipe facility

Windscreen and side window demist vents

Electrically operated front and rear windows with safety auto reverse and one touch up/down facility

Brakes

Traction control

Cornering brake control

Emergency brake assist

Electronic parking brake

Anti-lock braking system (ABS)

EBD - Electronic brakeforce distribution

Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection

Drag torque control

Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)

Hill hold and start system

Straight line stability control

Carpets/Rugs

Standard floor mats

Communication

E-call

Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto

Driver Aids

Speed sensitive power steering

Lane keep assist

Rear parking distance sensors

Front camera system

Driver drowsiness alert system

Speed sign recognition

Lane departure warning

Cruise control with intelligent speed limiter

Drive modes (sport, normal, eco)

Driver Convenience

Start/stop system

Breakdown call (b-call)

Driver Information

Multi function trip computer

Service indicator

Lights on audible warning

Central facia display with digital clock, outside air temperature and audio information

Vauxhall connect box

Engine oil life indicator

Smartphone projection

RDS with traffic programme

Instrumentation - Speedometer, rev counter, low fuel gauge warning light + water temperature gauge warning light

3.5" colour digital instrument cluster

Driving Mirrors

Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors

Electrochromic automatic anti-dazzle rear view mirror

Black door mirror housings

Embellishment Trims

Akoya grey fascia with high gloss black insert

Engine

Petrol Particulate Filter

Electronic returnless fuel system

Under body shield for aero

Entertainment

DAB Digital radio

Six speakers

Steering wheel audio, phone and cruise controls

USB type C port

Bluetooth A2DP audio streaming

AM/FM stereo radio

Multimedia with 10-inch touchscreen

Exterior Body Features

Body colour door handles

Body colour front and rear bumpers

Bonnet/headlight/wiper structure

Flexible roof mounted aerial

Black lower side window mouldings

Body colour roof and A pillar

Rear side wing doors

Chrome-effect Griffin logo and Black vizor frame

Corsa lettering in tailgate

Exterior Lights

Rear fog lamp

Automatic headlight control system

LED daytime running lights

High beam assist

Rear reversing lights

Hazard warning lights

Headlamps for left side traffic

3rd brake light

Intelli-LED headlights

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Four adjustable facia vents

Air conditioning with air recirculation facility

Cabin particulate filter - removes dust, airborne particles and pollen

4 speed fan with illuminated controls

Interior Features

Front cupholder

Cloth upholstery

Internal chrome door handles

Rear cupholder

Gearshift paddles

Reach and rake adjustable steering column

12V power sockets

IP plastic insert single piece

Polyurethane gear knob/lever

Right hand drive (RHD)

Illuminated glovebox with lid

Two litre open door pockets

Flat bottomed leather effect steering wheel

Interior Lights

Interior courtesy light

LED boot light

Single dome lamp with dual front reading lamps

Safety

Seatbelt pretensioners

3 rear 3 point seatbelts

Tyre deflation detection system

Single tone horn

Forward collision alert

Front seatbelt unfastened audible warning and warning light

Electrical child lock system in rear door latch

ISOFIX child seat mountings incorporating top tether anchor points located on second row rear seats

Deactivation switch for front passenger's airbag

Driver and front passenger airbags, front seat side impact airbags, full size curtain airbags

Seats

Front headrests

Rear headrests

Height adjustable head restraints

60/40 split folding rear seat

Comfort front seats

Single front passenger seat

3 bench rear seats in 2nd row

6 way manual adjustable driver seat height up/down, reach fore/aft, backrest upright/recline

4 way manual co-driver seat reach fore/aft, backrest upright/recline

Security

Locking wheel nuts

Visible vehicle identification number

Freewheeling door locks

Steering column lock

Remote locking fuel filler flap

Remote control central locking

Engine deadlock and immobiliser

Electronically protected audio equipment

2 keys one folding with integral remote

Vanity Mirrors

Driver/passenger sunvisors with vanity mirrors + covers

Wheels - Alloy

16" Grey alloy wheels

Emissions - ICE

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

Noise Level dB(A): 65

CO: 0.52

HC: 0.025

NOx: 0.014

HC+NOx: N

Particles: 0.0002

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low: 89

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium: 91

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High: 91

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High: 122

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 102

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - TEL: 86

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - TEH: 104

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - TEL: 87

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - TEH: 105

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - TEL: 86

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - TEH: 104

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - TEL: 116

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - TEH: 136

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 104

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 102

Engine and Drive Train

Cylinders - Bore (mm): 75

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 90.5

CC: 1199

Cylinders: 3

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Number of Valves: 12

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: TURBO INJECTION

Catalytic Convertor: No

Compression Ratio: 11.5:1

Transmission: SEMI-AUTO

Gears: 6 SPEED

Engine Code: EB2LTEDH2

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

WLTP - MPG - Low: 70.6

WLTP - MPG - Medium: 70.6

WLTP - MPG - High: 70.6

WLTP - MPG - Extra High: 52.3

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 62.8

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEL: 74.1

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEH: 61.1

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEL: 73.3

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEH: 60.3

WLTP - MPG - High - TEL: 74.2

WLTP - MPG - High - TEH: 60.9

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEL: 55.1

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEH: 46.8

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEL: 62.8

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEH: 61.4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low: 4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium: 4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High: 4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High: 5.4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 4.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEL: 3.8

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEH: 4.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEL: 3.9

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEH: 4.7

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEL: 3.8

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEH: 4.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEL: 5.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEH: 6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 4.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 4.6

General

Coin Series: Design

Coin Description: Turbo Hybrid

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 60000

Manufacturers Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 6

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Based On ID: N

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 20D

Service Interval Mileage: 16000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 12

Timing Belt Interval Mileage: 120000

Timing Belt Interval Frequency - Months: 120

Badge Power: 100

Badge Engine CC: 1.2

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Generation Mark: 6

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Performance

0 to 62 mph (secs): 10.7

Top Speed: 116

Engine Power - BHP: 100

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 74

Engine Power - RPM: 5500

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 151

Engine Torque - NM: 205

Engine Torque - RPM: 1750

Engine Torque - MKG: 20.9

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 195/55 R16

Tyre Size Rear: 195/55 R16

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Wheel Type: 16" ALLOY

Wheel Style: N

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: 0

Vehicle Dimensions

Length: 4060

Width: 1745

Wheelbase: 2538

Width (including mirrors): 1960

Height: 1433

Height (including roof rails): N

Weight and Capacities

Minimum Kerbweight: 1192

Gross Vehicle Weight: 1690

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 45

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 1200

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 423

Max. Loading Weight: 498

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 309

No. of Seats: 5

Max. Roof Load: 70

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1118

Exterior Body Features

Premium paint

Gloss metallic paint

Additional gloss metallic paint

Paint - Metallic

Gloss metallic - Carbon black

Gloss metallic - Crystal silver

Gloss metallic - Crimson red

Gloss metallic - Voltaic blue

Paint - Solid

Solid - Arctic white

Paint - Special

Premium paint - Graphic grey

Trim - Cloth

Cloth - Fresez black

Wheels - Spare

Provision for spare wheel fitment