VAUXHALL CORSA

FROM £600 Supermini is a staple of the British highway that offers cheap motoring

IT’S more than a quarter of a century since the Vauxhall Corsa arrived to replace the Nova supermini. In the years since, it’s battled with the Ford Fiesta for sales and become one of the most popular cars on Britain’s roads in the process.

Affordable prices and a huge dealer network have certainly helped, as well as the fact that there’s a version on offer for almost any buyer – from ultra-efficient small diesels to a VXR hot hatch capable of more than 140mph. Almost everyone has owned, been a passenger in or even learnt to drive in a Corsa.

Mass production also means that the Corsa is a staple of the used car market, providing buyers with a wide range of trims, engines, ages and colours without having to travel more than a few miles down the road to find one. Big sales numbers have also contributed to heavy depreciation, though, so used models can be great value for money.

History

WHEN it launched in 2000, the Corsa Mk2 evolved the smooth curves of the original. It was a smash hit, and topped the sales charts from 2002 to 2005.

The Corsa Mk3 arrived in 2006 in distinct three and five-door body styles with a huge range of petrol and diesel engines. A facelift in 2011 upgraded the interior, but it still lagged behind the VW Polo for quality. Trims have included Club, Life, Expression, S, SE, SXi, SRi, Excite and Design over the years. SRi is a sportier theme, while Design versions tend to have more kit.

The Mk4 was a thorough overhaul, improving the Corsa’s handling, engines and technology. It also offered some of the most spacious back seats in the class.

Which one?

THE 1.4-litre petrol is a decent engine, proving powerful but cheap to run. We’d avoid basic trims like Club – with so many Corsas available, finding a five door in SE, SRi or Excite guise should be easy.

Verdict

THE Corsa is really affordable to buy and own, and there’s a huge pool to choose from. It’s a practical small hatch, but spartan basic trims are best avoided.