Corsa offers comfort and joy
APART FROM the GSi and VXR at the top of the range, most Vauxhall Corsas built between 2014 and 2018 offer fairly lowly performance.
But that means they come with low insurance compared to some competitors, so that the 1.2 and 1.4-litre 75bhp engined models are as low as group 3.
This version of the Corsa is good looking in both three and five-door forms and it has decent interior space with comfort and refinement.
All are good to drive because of that comfortable ride and decent noise insulation, despite the quite lowly performance from the cheaper models.
In the latest revamp launched this year, there are no diesels, but among the wide choice of engines from 2014 to 2018 was an impressive 1.3-litre diesel with 73 or 95bhp, and capable of 74mpg.
Petrol power units start with a 69bhp 1.2-litre and its government average is 52mpg. This is followed by a 1.4 with either 75 or 88bhp that is slightly more economical and improves on acceleration.
Latterly there were also two versions of a 1.4 turbo with either 100 or 150bhp and capable of 55 and 48mpg respectively.
Finally, there is a three cylinder 1.0-litre turbo with 90 or 113bhp and it has an official figure of 57mpg.
Obviously, these last three engines offer the best of performance. The 100bhp 1.4T reaches 62mph from standstill in 10.9 seconds, while the 150bhp model does it in 8.6 seconds.
Both are smooth and peppy, but so is the 1.0-litre and the 113bhp version does the 62mph sprint in 10.3 seconds.
However, most models will have either the 69bhp 1.2 or the non-turbo 1.4-litre.
The 1.2 takes a pedestrian 15.8 seconds to get to 62mph, while the best the 1.4 can manage is 13.1 seconds.
Some models have sports suspension and this can spoil the otherwise good ride, while they might improve the looks to some eyes, larger wheels and tyres – above 16 inches – also have a detrimental effect on comfort.
The Corsa is often among the top sellers in the sales charts so there are plenty to choose from both in the dealers and privately.
Only consider the very best pristine examples with full service history and don’t be bamboozled by the large number of special editions.
This Corsa was a big step forward from the previous model in that it had a stiffer chassis and body and precise and direct electric power steering.
It’s nimble and safe through corners, with excellent grip and tenacious road holding allied to neutral handling.
Inside, there is loads of seat adjustment for the driver and a folding rear seat to get larger items in more easily.
Design models and those above have the easy to use Vauxhall Intellilink touch screen for media, sat nav where fitted, USB connection and Bluetooth.
There are eight trim levels plus all the special editions and most come with a good level of equipment.
All have cruise control and a very useful heated windscreen for the winter months. Base Active also comes with remote locking, electric front windows, hill start assist, alloy wheels and USB and Bluetooth connections.
Energy models add air con, the Intellilink touch screen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, automatic lights and wipers and electric mirrors.
Pay about £4,500 for a ’14 14-reg 1.2 Design three door, or £7,300 for a ’16 16-reg 1.0 turbo SE five door.