Vauxhall Corsa E

Ever since its introduction in 1993, the Vauxhall Corsa has been one of the UK's best selling cars. 2020 marks a significant milestone in the brand's history, with the introduction of the all-new Corsa-e.

Vauxhall's first ever all-electric vehicle, will set the benchmark for future electric vehicles across the range, and with UK sales of electric vehicles rising by 21.5% in the first half of this year, the all-new sixth generation Corsa-e, is well placed to take on the competition and the EV market.

The supermini, with its bold grille, LED headlights and distinctive side and rear creases, makes for a practical yet appealing design. Two versions of the Corsa-e are available; SE Nav and Elite Nav. 

Standard features include; active cruise control, 16-inch alloys, climate control and keyless entry, and Vauxhall's advanced driver assistance system provides - traffic sign recognition, side blind spot alert, lane keep assist and automatic emergency city braking. Smartphone connectivity syncs up effortlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with digital interface is standard, as is Sat Nav - which is sharp and easy to use. Elite Nav adds a 10-inch touchscreen, heated front seats/steering wheel and a panoramic rear-view camera. There are physical buttons as well as touchscreen, which is welcome. The new Corsa-e is fun to drive, and handles well in town and on the motorway. With sharp steering, precision brakes and next to no bodyroll, its instant acceleration makes it almost effortless navigating traffic. For a small car, it's surprisingly quiet with very little road noise inside the cabin. It's comfortable and has good road holding. It's easy to operate interface is complimented with a good sound system. The car is well built - most noticeably when you close the door, with a sound more akin to a larger car.

The pièce de résistance of the new Corsa-e, is the 50kWh battery powered, 136bhp electric motor, which offers zero-emissions and a sector-leading range of up to 209 miles from a single charge. To further improve efficiency, it features an intuitive regenerative braking system. When braking or decelerating, the kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy to replenish the battery. As with all electric cars, there's no manual option. 

The Corsa-e comes with three driving modes 'Eco', 'Normal' and 'Sport'. Eco provides maximum range and Sport provides the most fun - unlocking full bhp, with noticeable responsiveness, sharper steering and more dynamic suspension. Normal combines them both, giving you a good balance for everyday driving. The battery comes with an 8 year or 100,000-mile warranty, and 8 years roadside assist. Battery cells are housed under the floor, however, passenger space is unimpeded and remains the same as it's petrol and diesel siblings, making it a practical 5-door family hatchback. Luggage capacity is 267 litres.

There's plenty space upfront, however, adults will be pushed for space in the rear. Rapid charging (or a public fast charger) can provide 80% of charge in 30 minutes and a full charge on a house three-pin socket will take 24 hours. 

Vauxhall will also provide a free wallbox charger. 0-30 mph takes a spritely 2.8 seconds with 0-60mph in 7.6 seconds. Top speed is limited to 93mph.

Buyers wishing to convert to EV, shouldn't be put off, as the Corsa-e drives exactly like a 'normal' car. With free road tax and an impressive set-up, the new Vauxhall Corsa-e not only stands out from the competition, but it's perfectly placed to take advantage of growing consumer appetite for EV's. 

For more information or to arrange a test drive please visit this link.  

Review by Colin Cumming.