The Vauxhall Corsa first entered the market boring enthusiasts and car reviewers. The older generation may have not been that bad, but it paled in comparison against its more prominent competitors. The Corsa would have to upgrade itself in all aspects to make a significant mark in its reentry.

Pros

The latest Corsa enters the market with much larger size. It’s definitely not compact with its almost four metres long size and this new look takes some time to take in. The major changes continue in the different design variations of the three-door and five-door Corsa versions. The three-door pulls of a sporting look thanks to the raked rear window similar to the previous generation and the rear wheel arch bulges. The five-door version offers a family-friendly look, particularly through the large glass portion and an upright tailgate to give the vehicle a more spacious look for the interior.

Compared to the Punto, the Corsa sports the same chassis pressings, power steering system, and suspension via a rear torsion bar and MacPherson front struts. Corsa’s advantage, however, is its ability to provide shorter-travel with its tightly damped settings and long-travel via absorbent suspension.

The interiors boast of wider spaces that offer a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. Quality and durability are guaranteed through the materials used. Seats offer a very supportive shape and are large enough to provide all around comfort. The centre console is sleek, the window switches transculent lit, and the dials are beautifully backlit in certain Corsa models. All Corsa variations offer spacious and comfortable rear seat accommodations. There’s enough space for two adults out back and two average sized adults in the front. There’s a parcel shelf that can be folded back behind the rear; if you need more luggage space, other models include 150 litres extra via a false booth floor.

The VXR’s power delivery is quiet progressive. Sensible is the word to best describe the throttle mapping: no distractions like the sudden turbo-surge heard in the previous generation. The brakes are another great improvement. It only takes 2.63 seconds for the car to stop from going 60mph. The stop smooth yet not too sudden, assuring drivers and passengers of a safe and comfortable ride.

Cons

The Corsa’s engine choices are either three petrols or four diesels. We recommend staying away from the 1.2 and 1.0 petrols for anyone regularly going on motorway speeds—the Corsa is no lightweight that will limit itself to such small capacities. There’s a 1.3 diesel option as well, but is impractical for its expensive price. It’s smarter go for the 1.4 petrol out of all the choices.

The five-door vehicle tends to give out the most wind noise, while the three-door has noticeable noise around the flanks. Most engine choices are quiet, save for the slight rumble heard from the 1.7 and 1.3 engines.

The larger vehicle models are smooth on motorway speeds, but the controls tend to disappoint for the smaller sized variations. The power steering, although accurate and direct in performance, is way too light and gets in the way of smoother driving.

Vauxhall Corsa, from its launch in 2000, has been known as an elegant-looking hatchback entry-level vehicle. With its 2006 release, many fans of the Vauxhall brand are keen on discovering whether this car lived up to the reputation not just of the first generation Corsa but of its sister cars as well. Boasting of comfort and practicality, the Corsa is also an affordable car. With space big enough to fit a family with multiple children, it is great for short-distance travels with its small engine. Despite the wide space, the interiors are also stylishly designed. For a family car, this is definitely a wise choice.

With a 1.4L petrol engine, the Corsa is powerful. Compared to Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio, this car certainly has the edge. What’s even great is that it has a lifetime warranty, providing its users with the necessary help that they need if anything goes wrong with their car. All in all, this car can be considered as an entry level supermini. One doesn’t need to expect too much of it as it is moderately priced and has a modest engine. For those who want a simple yet comfy ride, the Vauxhall Corsa is a great choice.