The Vauxhall Corsa E, produced from 2014 to 2019, offers over 4,000 options for buyers to choose from. With a variety of body styles, engine choices, and transmission options, there is a Corsa E to suit almost anyone’s needs. The exception to this is the high-performance VXR version, which provides a thrilling driving experience but falls short compared to the Ford Fiesta ST.
While the Corsa E may not be the most exciting car to drive, it makes up for it in other areas. It is affordable to run and easy to own, making it a popular choice among buyers. The rear cabin is particularly spacious, and the boot offers ample storage space. However, the driving position may not be ideal for those with long legs.
When it comes to engine options, the 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 113bhp is the preferred choice. It provides a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The six-speed manual gearbox paired with this engine is generally smooth but can be notchy at times. There are also cheaper naturally aspirated options available, such as the 1.2 and 1.4-litre engines, but the turbocharged 1.4-litre engine with 99bhp introduced in late 2018 is recommended for its power and economy.
For those focused on fuel efficiency, the more powerful of the two 1.3 CDTi Ecoflex diesels is the way to go. With 94bhp, it offers decent performance while returning up to 80mpg. On the other end of the spectrum, the 202bhp VXR is a fast but flawed machine that falls behind the Ford Fiesta ST in terms of overall performance.
One area where the Corsa E shines is its comfortable and quiet ride. It handles bumps well, especially when equipped with smaller wheels. The steering is light and responsive, thanks to its tuning specifically for the UK market. While it may not have the dynamic capabilities of the Ford Fiesta, all the controls are consistent and easily modulated, making it an easy car to drive.
The interior of the Corsa E is of good quality, with noticeable improvements over its predecessor. While it may not match the classiness of a Volkswagen Polo, it offers quality plastics and excellent seats on higher-grade trims. However, it is less distinctive than its sibling, the Adam, as Vauxhall aimed to cater to the preferences of supermini buyers.
There is a wide range of specifications available for the Corsa E, from budget-friendly options to more luxurious trims. It’s important to note that insurance groups vary widely depending on the trim level, so buyers should consider this when making their selection.
In terms of common problems, owners should be aware that engine timing chains can sound rattly from cold, although regular oil changes can help alleviate this issue. Hesitancy or misfiring may be caused by worn coil packs or problems with the emissions system. Gearboxes may suffer from worn gear linkages, especially in manuals, and clutches can take a beating in learner or first-car use. Suspension and steering should be checked for leaks or any signs of wear. Buyers should also inspect the brakes, wheels, and tires for signs of neglect and ensure that the car’s USB connections are working if equipped with an infotainment system. Additionally, cracked heated windshields may have been replaced with non-heated versions to save money.
In conclusion, the Vauxhall Corsa 2014-2019 is an easy-to-drive and affordable supermini that offers a wide range of options for buyers. While it may not excel in terms of driving dynamics or interior build quality compared to its rivals, it strikes a good balance between the two. By ensuring proper maintenance and inspecting for common issues, buyers can find a reliable and enjoyable daily runabout in the Corsa E.