The new Vauxhall Corsa Electric has undergone an impressive facelift, making it one of the best looking superminis available in the UK. Its sleek design, featuring new LED lights and stylish ‘Corsa’ lettering at the rear, has had a significant impact with minimal changes. The update also introduces the Graphite Grey color, which will soon be available throughout the lineup, complementing the black Vizor.
Compared to its fifth-generation predecessor, the sixth-generation Corsa has undergone noticeable changes in its shape. It is now shorter in length but lower in roofline by almost 50mm. These adjustments give the Corsa a smaller and more refined appearance.
One of the highlights of the new Corsa Electric is its weight reduction, thanks to the PSA Group’s Common Module Platform. This lightweight platform enables the petrol-engined models to weigh less than a tonne. However, due to the 50kWh and 51kWh drive batteries and heavy control electronics of the Corsa Electric, it is heavier, with a claimed kerbweight starting from 1469kg. Despite this, it is still lighter than a Honda e and a Mazda MX-30 but heavier than a Mini Electric.
The weight of the Corsa Electric is partially attributed to its stiffer body structure and the arrangement of its lithium-ion battery in a sideways “H” shape under the front and rear seats. This configuration lowers the car’s center of gravity by 57mm compared to the regular Corsa. However, even with this significant improvement, the addition of half a tonne of ballast can sometimes offset the benefits of a lower center of gravity.
The Corsa Electric stands out in terms of electric range, offering a competitive 51kWh of electricity storage and an estimated range of up to 246 miles on the WLTP Combined cycle.
Long-range models of the Corsa Electric are equipped with Stellantis’ new front-mounted, AC synchronous electric motor, producing 156bhp. This motor is also used in the Vauxhall Astra and will be featured in the updated Peugeot e-208. Smaller battery models retain the previous car’s 134bhp motor, and both versions deliver 92lb ft of torque. The front axle consists of MacPherson struts, while the rear features a torsion beam and Panhard link to enhance wheel stability during cornering.
The facelifted Corsa Electric now offers three trim levels, down from four. The entry-level Design specification is followed by GS and the range-topping Ultimate. Most trim levels come with a 7.0in digital instrument display and a 10.0in infotainment screen, except for the Electric’s Design trim, which features a 7.0in screen. The petrol-powered Corsa’s Design spec is equipped with a smaller 3.5in digital display. Standard features across the range include 17in alloy wheels and Vauxhall’s adaptive ‘matrix LED’ headlights. The top-level trim offers additional amenities such as heated sports seats, a reversing camera, and tinted windows.
