By Malusi Msomi

The Opel Corsa nameplate dates back to 1982, and since then, it has produced more than 15 million
models spanning five generations. We attended the launch of the latest facelift model to see if the
little hatch still has it.

Design

In terms of design, the facelift Opel Corsa features OPEL’s Vizor front end, housing advanced driver
aids and safety technologies. Other styling updates include 16-inch black alloy wheels for the Lite
and Edition models, and bi-colour diamond cut 16-inch alloy wheels for the GS Line, which also has a
black roof, badging, and lettering. All models come standard with LED headlights, with fog lights
standard on the Edition and GS Line. It is honestly a good-looking car.

Interior

Inside, the new Corsa’s upgraded infotainment system now features the OPEL Pure Panel. The
Edition and GS Line trims (which we drove) come with a new 10-inch Intellilink touchscreen with
wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. The Lite model makes
do with a 3.5-inch digital instrument cluster. Additionally, the new Corsa includes an updated
steering wheel design and offers new front heated seats on the GS Line. It’s a good place to be, but
we fear the new-age buyer would like a sunroof just for vibes.

Engines

Powering the Opel Corsa range is a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine that comes in two
different flavours. The Lite and Edition deliver 74kW/205Nm, while the top-of-the-range GS Line
boasts a 96kW/230Nm version of the peppy engine. The Lite and Edition are paired with a 6-speed
manual, while the GS Line gets a six-speed automatic. Having piloted the aforementioned model,
we’re pretty impressed by the engine and gearbox responsiveness. We found the ride compliant and
the sound of the three-cylinder quite entertaining when driven in a spirited manner. While Opel
claims the GS Line will sip unleaded fuel at 6.3 l/100km, during our short drive we saw a reasonable
6.6 l/100km.

Safety

Safety features across the range include ABS with EBD and EBA, six airbags, hill-start assist, and an
electronic stability program. The Edition model adds front and rear park assist along with a reverse
camera. The GS Line comes equipped with a comprehensive set of additional safety systems,
including lane keep assist.

Verdict

The Corsa is a great offering from Opel; however, it does face stiff competition from its German rival,
the Polo, which is a volume seller in Mzansi. With that said, Opel has made sure that the Corsa “still
has it” as it offers a great ride, a punchy engine, and great looks.

Pricing

Corsa Lite 1.2T MT – R374,900
Corsa Edition 1.2T MT – R394,900
Corsa GS Line 1.2T AT – R459,900

All models in the Opel Corsa range come standard with a five-year / 100,000 km warranty and a
three-year / 45,000 km service plan.