Vauxhall Corsa 2020: A New Era of Success with PSA Group Mechanicals
Introduction
The Vauxhall Corsa has been a popular choice in the supermini segment for years. However, in November 2017, Vauxhall and Opel faced a predicament. Despite having a refreshed Corsa ready for launch, the acquisition of Opel-Vauxhall by the PSA Group led to a change in plans. The decision was made to build the new Corsa on the CMP platform, which is shared with the Peugeot 208 and DS 3 Crossback. This marked a new era for Vauxhall, as it would be the first Corsa to utilize modern French engineering. In this article, we will explore how these changes have positioned the fifth-gen Corsa to compete with its rivals.
A Modern French Skeleton
The decision to switch to the CMP platform was driven by the need for a more rigid and lighter chassis that could accommodate a wide range of powertrains. The PSA-sourced vital organs, developed in less than two years, have allowed Vauxhall to raise the game of the Corsa. The result is a supermini that can compete with the likes of the Renault Clio, Ford Fiesta, and Seat Ibiza.
Engine Options and Trim Levels
Until the arrival of the Vauxhall Corsa-e, UK customers have two petrol engine options and a sole diesel. The entry-level 1.2-litre PSA Group three-pot engine produces 74bhp, but with the addition of a turbocharger, it increases to 99bhp. There is also a more powerful petrol engine available in other markets, which may make its way to the UK in the future.
In terms of trim levels, there is a wide selection to choose from. Vauxhall offers 11 different specifications, starting from the entry-level SE and going up to the range-topping Ultimate Nav model.
Conclusion
The introduction of the fifth-gen Vauxhall Corsa marks a new era for the popular supermini. With the utilization of PSA Group mechanicals and the modern French CMP platform, Vauxhall has positioned itself to compete with its rivals in terms of performance, efficiency, and technology. The Corsa offers a range of engine options and trim levels to cater to different customer preferences. Overall, the Corsa is ready to make a splash in the supermini segment and prove its worth against its stiffer competition.