Best Supermini
Vauxhall Corsa
BEST SUPERMINI: Vauxhall Corsa
Another year, another victory for the ever-impressive Corsa. In 2007, it was sitting pretty at the top of the supermini class – but things are much tougher now. Yet although it has faced a more difficult challenge, the classy Vauxhall has still emerged victorious.
Not only has it beaten SEAT’s top-value Ibiza, but also the Mazda 2 line-up, strengthened by the arrival of a three-door. Meanwhile, the MINI range has grown to include the Clubman estate. In the end, though, the winning supermini criteria of space, value, refinement and design quality across the entire range ensured the prize went to the Corsa.
And as soon as you look at the Vauxhall, it’s easy to see why the model is proving so tough to topple. First and foremost, buyers get a lot of space and versatility for their money. Inside, you’ll find one of the best-built cabins in the sector, while the big-car refinement and driving experience give a grown-up feel that most competitors can only aspire to.
The big question is whether the Corsa will be good enough to defend its position against its forthcoming arch-rival – Ford’s new Fiesta. The blue oval model has just missed out on inclusion in this year’s New Car Honours, so we’ll have to wait until 2009 to see if it’s good enough to steal the gold medal from the hugely capable Vauxhall.
Commended: MINI, Mazda 2
Shortlist:
Mazda 2
Vauxhall Corsa
Renault Clio
Skoda Fabia
Fiat Grande Punto
MINI
Peugeot 207
Suzuki Swift
SEAT Ibiza (new)
Toyota Yaris
