The Regular Vauxhall Corsa Is Here, And It Weighs Just 980kg

You’ve already seen the new Vauxhall Corsa. Not only were images of its European alternative, the Opel Corsa, leaked online, but the all-electric version has already been revealed. However the common-or-garden Corsa, the petrol and diesel ones you’re going to see a lot more often, has now been officially unveiled.

Other than a set of more conventional five-spoke wheels and a little less chrome, the regular Corsa looks practically identical to the fully electric one. Which is a good thing, as there’s still the short overhangs and mix of curvy lines and sharp details.

As well as revealing the subtly different exterior, Vauxhall has revealed what engines will initially be available in the Corsa. At launch, there’s two 1.2-litre petrol engines and a 1.5-litre diesel.

The engine in the entry-level Corsa has a 1.2-litre petrol motor with 74bhp. This engine comes mated to a five-speed manual. The more powerful petrol engine is no larger than the basic one, but it does have direct injection and a turbocharger to help it produce 25bhp more. It also trumps the entry-level Corsa with one more gear ratio in its manual ‘box.

The 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine matches the forced-induction petrol engine’s power output of 99bhp but produces more torque. The 1.2-litre 99bhp petrol manages a decent 151lb ft, yet the diesel betters it with 184lb ft.

The engine selection won’t be a surprise to anyone that’s familiar with the new Peugeot 208’s drivetrains. Both the new Corsa and the 208 share a platform as well as a range of engines.

The power figures produces by each motor are hardly anything to get your pulse racing, but they are made more respectable when you learn that the new Corsa weighs in it at less than a ton. Thanks to a variety of high-strength steels, and despite it being a five-door as standard, this Vauxhall hatch weighs just 980kg.

As well as the engines, two optional extras have also been announced: a set of adaptive LED headlights and an eight-speed automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddles.

Prices are yet to be revealed, but it’s safe to say even the higher powered petrol and diesel cars will be significantly cheaper than the £26,490 Corsa-e.