Vauxhall Corsa

It has always been one of Europe's best-sellers - now here are the best pictures yet of the model Opel hopes will be as much a success as their new Astra. This is the replacement for the Corsa, and the images show how close it is to production. Despite the manufacturer's attempts to disguise it as a Fiat by mimicking tail-lights from a Punto and a drawn-in window line, the shape of the newcomer is obvious. Also, it's clear to see the resemblance to the Astra - a more angular bonnet and larger headlights give the car Opel's latest family look. At the rear, the tall roofline and more vertical tailgate suggest that interior space is high on the development team's list of priorities.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By @Automedia

January 2006

Rating:

Our spy shots show a three-door model, which will have a sleeker, sportier look than the five-door. As with the Astra, the rear bodywork of both versions will vary significantly, in a bid to make them appeal to different types of customer. The five-door car is expected to have a longer wheelbase, which will also go on to underpin the next-generation Meriva, scheduled to arrive in 2008. Spin-offs from the three-door platform will include the eventual replacement for the Tigra, although this is not expected to appear until 2010.

The new Corsa is set to debut at London Motor Show in July, and will hit forecourts in towards the end of 2006. It will share many of its mechanical components with the new Fiat Punto, which is going to be built on the same platform when it begins production at the end of this year. Other shared parts are likely to include the suspension systems, steering and braking components, as well as the much lauded 1.3-litre Multijet diesel engine, which already appears in the current generations of both cars.

Opel's petrol units will differ from Fiat's, though, and will start with an updated version of the 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine fitted to today's entry-level Corsas. Other options will include the 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre Twinport units, along with an updated version of the 1.7 CDTI diesel from the Astra. All motors will be compliant with Euro IV emissions rules. Opel also hopes to make the Corsa one of the safest superminis in its class, with airbags all-round, electronic brakeforce distribution and other driver aids. These improvements will come at a cost, however, as the newcomer is expected to be slightly more expensive than the model it replaces.

We also recently managed to get the first shots of the hottest version Corsa, the GSI (to be badged VRX in the U.K.). This will have a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine developing around 160 bhp, putting it up against the likes of the Ford Fiesta ST and Mitsubishi Colt CZT, as well as lowered, tuned sports suspension, a sports exhaust, full body kit and special interior detailing.