Overall Rating |  |
Corsa is cheap and cheerful but lags behind the current Fiesta in terms of interior space, handling and refinement. Safety, security and low running costs are its major plus points.
For
- Quite roomy and increasingly good value
- Reliable, easy to own, cheap to run
- Nice 1.2, 1.4 and 1.8 16-valve engines
Against
- Dated alongside C3, latest Fiesta and Micra
- 1.0 models are underpowered and sparsely equipped
- Beware of ex-driving school and hire cars
Road Test
Corsa looked competitive back in 2000, but newer contenders like the latest Fiesta and Micra now make it a back-marker. Used prices are tempting; don't buy new, as fleet orders mean steep initial depreciation.
The body is four inches shorter than Fiesta, so Corsa loses out on occupant space; luggage capacity is good, however. Headroom or rear legroom are not as good as in Fiesta or in the smaller Micra.
Against its sharpest rivals, Corsa offers less driver satisfaction. It's easy to drive, especially around town thanks to heavily assisted steering, but there's noticeable body roll and the ride is so-so. Overall refinement is also mediocre, with engine and road noise at higher speeds.
Engines are economical and cheap to service, but the three cylinder 1.0 12v unit is rather sluggish. Best choices are the lively 1.4 16v and modern 1.3 TD. Low insurance ratings help to reduce running costs.
Need To Know
NCAP: 4
Best Models: 1.4 16v Elegance
Worst Models: 1.0 12v Club & Expression; 1.0 ECO
Alternatives
|
Star Ratings
Handling Comfort Quality & Reliability Performance Roominess Running Costs  Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
|
|
|
