Opel’s nod to the past with the new-look Corsa hits the mark

Opel is back taking the fight to its rivals with the new Corsa. Here is a car that shines brightly in the Opel catalogue and offering the looks and the fun-to-drive element that we remember and love from the past.

Taking its lead from the Peugeot 208, the Corsa has a distinct character that young and old drivers alike will appreciate.

Opel is running a promotion line that lots of us started our driving life in a Corsa and that the new styling, a host of new technology and safety levels they believe that this car is now right up at the leading edge to attract buyers back to the brand.

This week’s test model, the 1.2-litre PURETECH petrol SRi version makes a good impression. It is lively through a six-speed gearbox with effective power when needed. Because of its light weight – under 1,000kg – there is never a time when you feel it is labouring on the motorway or on tighter country roads.

As you would expect from a car of this size, manoeuvrability in traffic hold no fears either. The SRi has a sport mode too if extra zip is needed, and although most owners will rarely use this, it is nice to know that you can avail of the additional power if required.

It is lower than the old Corsa and has a slightly longer wheelbase and that helps with the additional space inside, as well as delivering a lower centre of gravity. That adds to the overall improved handling and brings the new Corsa closer to the handling exploits of cars like the Ford Fiesta and the Volkswagen Polo.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

Get the Connacht Tribune Live app

The Connacht Tribune Live app is the home of everything that is happening in Galway City and county. It’s completely FREE and features all the latest news, sport and information on what’s on in your area. Click HERE to download it for iPhone and iPad from Apple’s App Store, or HERE to get the Android Version from Google Play.