TRIED & TESTED
Vauxhall Corsa Electric
Despite the government’s delay of the 2030 new ICE car ban, Vauxhall is charging ahead with the electrification of its range. John Challen samples the latest – and smallest – addition to the lineup
TRIED & TESTED
Vauxhall Corsa Electric
Despite the government’s delay of the 2030 new ICE car ban, Vauxhall is charging ahead with the electrification of its range. John Challen samples the latest – an smallest – addition to the lineup
With an ever-growing number of electric SUVs of all sizes on the market, vehicle manufacturers are turning their attention to other sectors – and drivers – for battery powered opportunities.
With the Corsa, it’s another case of keeping the familiar name, but adding an electric powertrain alongside a petrol version, with a hybrid to follow in 2024. For the Corsa Electric, there’s an upgraded (51kWh) battery, working alongside a new 154hp electric motor.
There’s also a smaller (134hp) powertrain option – offered in Design and GS specifications and with a slightly (50kWh battery) – for those who favour value over driving range. The WLTP driving ranges for the two variants are 246 miles and 222 miles respectively. Charging-wise, Vauxhall says a full charge will take around 7.5hrs using a 7kW wallbox, while replenishing from 0-80% can be completed in half an hour via a 100kW rapid charger.
Inside the car, drivers benefit from a whole host of quality and technology upgrades. There’s a 10-inch touchscreen (7-inch on the base model Design spec), which features improved graphics and icons, as well as better usability. Smartphone connectivity and charging has also been given a boost, along with the voice recognition system using the “Hey Vauxhall” command. The flat-bottomed design of the steering wheel is new, as are the seat patterns and optional massage function for drivers. Drivers of the Ultimate Corsa Electric have new ambient lighting options, as well as the opportunity to specify a fixed panoramic sunroof.
With a nod to sustainability and the importance of material choice, Vauxhall has done away with chrome on the outside of the car, while clean lines and fewer changes in textures on the outside, ensure improved aerodynamics and, therefore, efficiency. PureSense, Vauxhall’s advanced safety system, features heavily on the Corsa Electric, with models offering numerous protective systems.
These include (in no particular order): AEB with pedestrian detection; cruise control; side blind spot alert; lane keep assist; driver drowsiness alert; front and rear distance sensors and cruise control. There’s also IntelliLux LED lights on the new car, which helps adapt the light beam pattern to suit the driving conditions and surroundings. The technology offers five different modes: motorway; cornering; town light; country light and static curve light. It has also been proven to identify objects 30 to 40m earlier than conventional halogen systems, when the car is travelling at 50mph.
It might just be a supermini, but Vauxhall engineers have ensured that the driving dynamics and experience haven’t been left behind. The new car features improved steering and a dual-circuit braking system for more confidence behind the wheel, while the 260Nm of toque and Sport mode, ensures entertainment on the road.
Which model is for you?
As evidenced in other recently launched Vauxhalls, the company is adopting a simplified approach to its offerings, so there are three clear and distinct grades for the Corsa Electric.
It may be the base spec, but the Design trim is well-equipped with dual 7-inch digital screens (central touchscreen and instrument cluster), smartphone connectivity and LED headlights. Standard driver assistance items include lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition and cruise control with intelligent speed limiter.
Moving on, the GS adds a ‘sporty flavour’, according to Vauxhall. In reality, that means a choice of three different alloy wheel designs, two-tone paint finishes, LED front fogs and tail lights and a larger infotainment system.
The range-topping Ultimate builds on the GS with 17-inch black alloys, adaptive LED Matrix headlights, automatic emergency breaking and an advanced traffic sign recognition. Ultimate drivers also benefit from heated steering wheel and seats, keyless entry and start – and six-way adjustment for both front seats.
Design
GS
Ultimate
EXPERIENCE
Vauxhall Astra Electric
VERDICT
The supermini market is going to be a competitive one in the electric age, with many drivers wishing to shy away from SUVs, or looking for a more energy efficient option as their daily transport. With an impressive specification on each model and plenty of miles from a full charge – not to mention a decent level of refinement and driver experience – the electric Corsa looks set to be a strong contender for the future.
