Vauxhall’s best-selling car for many years, with over 2.1m sold in the UK and 13.5m in Europe since Corsa was launched in 1993, the only aspect familiar with the new model is its name. Featuring the latest EV technology, Corsa-e promises a 205-miles range (WLTP figures) that can be extended by 40% (Eco-mode).

Its electric motor is powered by a 50kWh lithium-ion battery, which develops the equivalent of 136bhp and allows it to scorch from 0-60mph in around 7.8s (Sport mode). The usual 80% recharge state is possible at fast-charge stations within 30 minutes, while a wallbox achieves a full-charge overnight domestically. All the car’s systems and the electric drive are adjusted for maximum energy efficiency, without significant detrimental effect on comfort. 

Corsa-e features a variable regenerative braking system that recovers the energy produced under braking, or deceleration, which it stores in its battery (guaranteed for eight years). The Corsa-e is equipped as standard with an 11kW on-board charger. However, equipment and connectivity levels have taken a massive upwards hike and the infotainment system, which features a 10.0-inch colour touchscreen is one of the most advanced fitted to any Vauxhall.

Several camera and radar-based assistance systems enable safer, more relaxed driving. While most are familiar, such as traffic sign recognition, lane keep and departure assist, blind spot alert, drowsiness alert and adaptive cruise control, the latest Vauxhall also employs two emergency braking systems:

• Camera-based automatic emergency braking is activated if a collision threatens at speeds between 3mph and 25mph. Up to 18mph the car can be brought to a standstill. Between 30 and 52mph the car’s speed decreases by up to 13mph. The front camera can identify vehicles and pedestrians.
• Camera and radar-based automatic emergency braking in an emergency reduces the car’s speed by up to 31mph in order to avoid or reduce the force of a collision. Depending on the speed, the system can identify vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles and motorbikes.

The Corsa-e helps the driver into and out of parking spaces by various means:

• Parking pilots for the rear, and front plus rear.
• Automatic parking assistant (available for the first time on Corsa) manoeuvres the car into and out of parking spaces automatically. The driver only needs to operate the accelerator, brakes and gear shifter.
• Panorama rear-view camera provides additional parking assistance by increasing rearward visibility by up to 180%, enabling drivers to see traffic approaching from the right or left.

Live sat-nav with real-time traffic information, key vehicle data checking via an app, direct connection with roadside assistance and emergency call, provide peace of mind. If the seatbelt tensioners, or the airbags, are deployed, an emergency call is activated automatically. An ‘Open & Start’ keyless entry/start system (with anti-theft protection) recognises the driver via a smart device. Finally, with fresh trim detailing, tactility and quality have been improved to new peaks.