First Drive: Opel Corsa

First Drive: Opel Corsa

The Opel Corsa is a name that many hold dear to their hearts. For numerous motorists, the Corsa began their motoring journey and is a car that historically fit the role of an affordable hatch, perfect for city life and new drivers. Well, the Corsa remains and continues to provide a pleasant driving experience on a smallish budget.

From the driver's seat, it is evident that Opel has updated their infotainment system. Certain models now integrate a 10-inch screen into the dash, seamlessly supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The interior is comfortable but does provide a darker aesthetic. There is also a noticeable use of plastic inside the cabin, which speaks to the car's affordability and provides a long-lasting environment to deal with family chaos. 

The Corsa sports a 1.2-litre turbocharged engine bolted to either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic. The Corsa does have two separate power outputs, with the entry-level model, the Lite, producing 74kW, and the top-spec, the GS, pumping out 96kW. The provided power provides decently spirited acceleration for national highways and around-town driving, but it won't knock your socks off.

The ride quality is good and provides a pleasant drive on rougher road surfaces. The suspension is a little stiff, which you can feel on the more substantial bumps on the road. The Corsa does offer an effortless driving experience with excellent visibility and direct steering inputs compared to its rivals within the segment. 

On the outside, it has a slightly improved appearance with an updated front bumper featuring the brand's now signature Vizor panel between the headlights and sensors, resulting in the futuristic and bold aesthetic Opel is pursuing. The Corsa also has LED headlights and 16-inch alloy wheels for the Lite and Edition models; the GS adds a black roof, mirrors, and badges to the equation.

The model now comes in three iterations, with the entry-level model being the Corsa Lite. The Lite costs R374,900 and comes with a 6-speed manual. The next model up is the Edition, which comes in at R394,900 and sports the same 74kW and 6-speed manual as the Lite but does offer an enhanced interior experience with elements such as a 10-inch infotainment screen. The GS, priced at R459,900, features a more powerful 96kW engine and 6-speed automatic transmission, and a 10-inch infotainment screen and black exterior trim. 

The Opel Corsa is a decent all-around choice for those looking for a dependable and comfortable daily driver. Compared to its competitors, such as the Honda Fit and Volkswagen Polo TSI, it is reasonably priced and provides a solid option for those looking for a stylish hatchback, but you would do best to also take a look at the Peugeot 208, essentially the same vehicle as the Corsa. A 3-year/45,000km service plan and a 5-year/100,000km warranty provide additional peace of mind.

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