Cool Supermini Or Boring Instructor’s Car!?
For anyone who learnt to drive in the UK, there’s a fairly a high chance that you will have done so in a Vauxhall Corsa. There are some good reasons why driving schools like this famous super-mini, but their admiration is not necessarily conducive to a ‘sexy’ image!
That said, I think the compact, smart design of the Corsa is actually quite attractive. Plus, it has so many other benefits, not least fuel efficiency and cheap running costs, that no-one should rule it out just because it was their first experience of driving!
New Vauxhall Corsa Review
Exterior Styling
Although it’s fair to say that the Corsa has a pretty no-nonsense design, it has been well done. Available in 3 or 5-door models, the Corsa has an organized, solid look about it.
There’s a recognizable chrome bar across the front grille, complete with Griffin badge. The lower grille has been enlarged for this latest model, giving an effect of a smiling face (well, I leave you to make your own mind up about that one!). Chrome finished headlights round off the front of the car neatly.
Is It Fun To Drive?
Vauxhall have made quite a big deal of the ‘fun’ element of the Corsa in their promotion of the car. But does that have any connection with reality, or is it just an empty advertizing line?
Well, in actual fact, the Corsa can indeed be a lot of fun on the right roads. There are some really nice pieces of engineering that have contributed to this. The ride height, damping, suspension and steering have all been retuned to good effect. The electric power-assisted steering, in particular, gives great control at high speeds.
The ABS system (anti-lock braking system) is pretty sophisticated. Any hint of slide when cornering and the ABS kicks in to apply the perfect amount of braking to each wheel to correct things. The same technology comes into force when the Corsa goes off course when braking in a straight line. This both produces a high level of control and adds to the safety of the car.
When driving the new Vauxhall Corsa I’ve also found that it is beautifully quiet inside. There’s very little rattling of any kind. Combined with the power assisted, this really does create a feeling of stability when driving the Corsa.
How Does It Look and Function Inside?
Most Corsas are pretty vibrant and fun inside, thanks to the available colour combinations. You can even choose to match up the trims for the dash and doors.
The cockpit has been well thought out ergonomically, with everythything in easy reach. Heated seats are a brilliant feature, as is – wait for it…the heated steering wheel! Don’t scoff, it’s actually a godsend on those chilly winter days when you’re hands are so cold you’re constantly taking them off the wheel to warm them up. This heated wheel system is unique amongst super-minis.
What about the entertainment system? It’s equipped with: radio, iPod connection, USB point, traffic info, Blue tooth connectivity and a 5” touch-screen display. All this, along with really nice finishing on the centre console and dash, actually makes the Corsa feel quite upmarket.
The back seats are deceptively roomy, both for head and leg space. Plus they can be angled back if the passenger fancies a kip! The boot is similarly spacious for such a small car. In fact, it has more space than just about any other vehicle in the same class.
Is It Safe!?
Yes. The Corsa is one of the safest super-minis around. It’s outstanding performance under safety tests is in no small part down to a very robust passenger cell. There also 6 airbags, including curtain airbags, for maximum safety upon impact. The Corsa was awarded the full 5 Star Euro NCAP safety award.
Summary
So I hope I’ve persuaded you that your driving instructor wasn’t boring for choosing a Corsa, but actually knew what she was about! The latest model is fun to drive, with responsive handling and strong road hold even at speed.
You might be surprised at just how much of a premium feel there is to the cockpit, from the Infotainment system to the heated steering wheel! It’s practical too, and makes a good passenger car even when there’s luggage to be transported.
Author
Josh Austin works for County Motor Works, who have been car dealers in Essex since 1907.
