by In times of widespread interest in crossovers, the demand for models of other classes has declined. This is especially noticeable in the B-class – many choose budget crossovers, which are not much more expensive (and often cheaper). As a result, the offer of compact hatchbacks in our market has decreased. However, new models still appear and are sometimes very interesting – such as the sixth-generation Opel Corsa.
The new Opel Corsa F has completely changed in appearance and has nothing in common with its predecessor. The design has become more elegant – with smooth curves and a sloping roof. Interestingly, the height has been reduced by 40 mm compared to the old Corsa. LED headlights are complemented by stylish thin running lights that make the ‘face’ more expressive. You can also choose a two-tone paint with a black roof.
The interior is also modern – the hatch was developed after Opel’s transition to the PSA Group and it moved to their CMP platform – like the recently tested Peugeot 2008. Opel Corsa is not so small anymore – 4060 mm in length with a wheelbase of 2538 mm. At the same time, the car has become lighter, and its body is 15% stiffer.
The materials in the Opel Corsa interior have been significantly improved and there is more black piano lacquer. The steering wheel is small and sports-close at the bottom, and the curved gear lever is a signature feature of many PSA Group models.
The display of the virtual dashboard is relatively small but easy to read. The multimedia touchscreen, however, is huge, 10 inches. It includes navigation, and Apple CarPlay with Android Auto. The center console is turned towards the driver and has few buttons. Corsa has a deep glove compartment, but the compartment in the armrest is very small.
The seating position in Opel Corsa is very low, although visibility does not suffer from this. The steering wheel and seats have sufficient adjustment ranges. The seats are firm and offer good side support. Heating is also provided.
In the back, legroom is good for a B-class vehicle, but the headroom is not the largest. It is more comfortable for two passengers. The trunk volume has been increased to 309-1118 liters, but the loading opening is quite narrow.
However, the Opel Corsa 2021 configuration is very generous – the test version Elegance Plus includes keyless access, a panoramic roof, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, light and rain sensors, a rearview camera, and parking sensors. There is also a wide range of electronic assistants – automatic braking, traffic sign recognition, lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, and driver fatigue detection.
The new Opel Corsa is offered in Ukraine with 1.2-liter engines with 75, 100, and 130 hp, and we got the most powerful version for the test. The small turbo engine is torquey in the mid-range – 230 Nm of torque is more than enough for the hatchback. It is quiet and operates without vibrations, and the 8-speed automatic shifts gears almost imperceptibly.
The engine’s behavior largely depends on the chosen driving mode – in Sport, it is very lively and responsive. The new Opel Corsa accelerates briskly from traffic lights and easily overtakes on the roadway. For reference: acceleration to a hundred takes 8.7 seconds, and the maximum speed is 208 km/h.
In Eco mode, the gas pedal loses sensitivity and the engine is sluggish but economical. By the way, about consumption – on the highway, 4-4.5 l/100 km at 100 km/h is quite realistic and this is at the level of passport data. In the city, it turned out to be about 8-8.5 l/100km, but there is a nuance – in winter, in frost, the engine shutdown system when stopping is deactivated and this adds 1-2 liters.
Perhaps the most impressive in Corsa are the suspension settings. The hatchback’s handling is very pleasant with even sporty notes. The steering wheel is precise and with good feedback, and as the speed increases, it becomes heavier. The car maneuvers perfectly and leans little, and at 140-150 km/h it holds the road confidently. At the same time, the ride is not harsh, even on top 16-inch wheels. However, the clearance is small and under Ukrainian conditions, this should be kept in mind. Sound insulation has also been improved, especially noticeable on the highway.
You can buy an Opel Corsa in Ukraine for a price starting from 487,900 hryvnias. The test car costs 661,700 hryvnias, which is not so cheap, although it is richly equipped. Of course, for this money, it is possible to buy a crossover, but the Opel Corsa will handle better and be more convenient in the city.
Opel Corsa Specifications:
- 3-cylinder gasoline turbo engine, transverse front
- Capacity 1199 cm3
- Power 130 hp at 5500 rpm
- Maximum torque 230 Nm at 1750 rpm
- Front-wheel drive
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Maximum speed 208 km/h
- Acceleration 0-100 km/h 8.7 s
- Fuel consumption city/highway 5.5/4.2 l/100 km
- Length/width/height/base 4060/1745/1433/2538 mm
- Trunk volume 309-1118 l
- Ground clearance 130 mm
- Turning diameter 10.8 m
