A new Opel Corsa has been revealed as the German company prepares to take the fight to the highly competitive supermini sector. The updated Corsa arrives with improved battery technology, new styling features and a range of interior and tech revisions. The first examples are expected to reach Irish shores by early 2024.
Upgraded electric power
The Corsa Electric is the latest model to feature Opel's new 51kWh battery pack. Paired with an equally-new 156hp electric motor (more powerful than that of the original Corsa-e, though the old 136hp motor will be offered alongside the new one), the newly-named Corsa Electric can officially achieve a range of up to 410 kilometres between charges - a 15 per cent improvement over its predecessor, which could cover 357km.
AC charging at up to 11kW will now be possible, making better use of the public EV-charging network. A full recharge from empty can be completed in five hours and fifteen minutes at such a rate, while those with access to 100kW DC rapid charging can recharge their Corsa from 10-80 per cent in as little as half an hour.
Petrol-powered versions of the Corsa will also be available, along with a mild-hybrid variant featuring a 48-volt electrical system.
Adopting the Vizor look
The most noticeable styling feature on the new Corsa is the addition of the more streamlined "Vizor" front panel. First seen on the Opel Mokka, a smooth and dark panel now occupies the space where the front grille is normally located, housing the driving aids and safety technologies.
Additionally, the LED Pixel Matrix headlights have been upgraded.
Elsewhere, the new Corsa has been fitted with 17-inch wheels with black detailing, along with a 'shark fin' antenna on the roof.
Up-to-date interior and tech
The Corsa's interior has been thoroughly updated, with a newly designed steering wheel, patterned seats and a new gearstick among the changes.
The centre console features an upgraded 10-inch touchscreen, while the smaller 7.0-inch digital instrument display has been reprogrammed with new graphics. The updated user interface utilises artificial intelligence, as well as a 3D navigation system.
Drivers can also keep their car's software current without needing to visit a garage, thanks to over-the-air updates giving quick access to the latest features and applications. The infotainment system now allows for wireless smartphone charging, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also integrated.
Safety has also been improved in the latest generation of Corsa. A high-resolution rear-mounted camera allows for a better view when manoeuvring, while the automatic emergency braking system can detect pedestrians and is claimed to react quicker to emergencies.
The infotainment system can be accessed through voice control - a feature that can already be seen on the Astra - meaning that drivers can keep their eyes on the road more often, with adaptive cruise control and a speed limiter aiding safer driving, too.
Irish prices and specifications for the new Opel Corsa have yet to be confirmed.