What they said when the Vauxhall Corsa was new… (Dec 5 2002)
VAUXHALL can still hold up its head with the Corsa 1.4 Elegance.
There have been newcomers to the small car segment but the refreshed, updated Corsa can still hold its own against them.
The Corsa range is big, but newcomers have tended to be around the 1400cc capacity, and the Elegance is good value at £11,400. It's fairly well spec’ed and cheap to own and run, while its dynamic features will satisfy most drivers.
The engine is particularly good around town with plenty of mid-range pulling power, an eagerness to get away and provides stress-free performance on the motorway.
A standard sweet changing five-speed manual box can be replaced with an automatic if desired, both have excellent ratios, and the powertrain offers excellent economy potential.
I thought it needed too much effort on the footbrake but the steering is very light by comparison. Secondary controls are all easy to use and the instruments simple and fairly clear.
There's an effective heating and ventilation system and the oddments space is adequate although boot space is tight for anything but weekly shopping.
The three-door version tested provides a test of contortionist skills when it comes to accessing the rear seats and room is tight in the back, but those in front have no such problems.
The seats are quite well shaped and offer plenty of support but the furthest forward position means that some drivers may hit knees on the lower fascia.
Visibility is clear all round and I can understand why it is a favourite with driving schools - it's far and away the most popular choice for members of the Driving Instructors Association - for providing learners with the skills necessary to pass their driving test.
The lively engine provides an unhesitating flow of available power and the responsiveness of the powertrain is matched by that of the handling. The Corsa has reasonable grip and a inherently safe roadholding to help keep you out of trouble.
Noise levels can become busy, particularly the amount of road rumble and suspension noise - a feature, however, not uncommon in cars of this class.
With attractive finance and insurance available, the Corsa 1.4 is more than able to run nose to nose with competitors of younger years.
Words: Robin Roberts
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