The Opel Corsa, previously manufactured by General Motors, was taken over by the PSA Group (Peugeot, Citroën) in 2017. At the beginning of 2021, the PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) became part of Stellantis. Read on to discover more about the brand-new Corsa on sale in South Africa.1
Launch of the sixth generation Corsa1
The latest Corsa landed on South African shores sometime in 2020, but the official launch took place only in March 2021, for which the pandemic was partially to blame.
How is the Corsa like on the road? 1
Initial impressions by the test driver were that the Corsa is a noteworthy opponent to the well-known Volkswagen Polo. The turbocharged 1.2T Elegance at the top of the range was selected for the test drive. Other Corsa models have the same 1.2-litre, three-cylinder engine but without the turbocharger. The Elegance’s engine produces 96 kW of power and 230 Nm of torque and is married to a six-speed automatic transmission.
What about its looks? 1
The Corsa’s shape has come a long way, and the Generation Six Corsa boasts of a square sporty body. It has the same platform as the second-generation Peugeot 208, which will arrive later in 2021. As shown by the side mirrors, the French influence of the Corsa is subtle, with some spare parts coming from Peugeot. But if you compare each car’s profile, the French connection is unmistakable.
The Corsa’s interior looks great1
Besides a spacious front, the first impression is that the interior’s quality exceeds that of the Volkswagen Polo when, for instance, comparing door panels. Unfortunately, the Corsa doesn’t have a soft dashboard. The driver’s position is most comfortable while holding the thick diameter steering wheel inspires much confidence.
How does the Corsa perform? 1
This nippy car has a quoted fuel consumption of 6.3 L/100 km/h. Its small size allows the Corsa to navigate city traffic with ease safely whilst it blends in well with highway traffic.
A challenge with the gearbox1
There is a definite lag with the gearbox when shifting to the next gear, particularly when in city traffic, which is not part of its rival, the Volkswagen Polo.
The Corsa is well-equipped1
The Corsa Elegance doesn’t come short with equipment when considering the heated seats, LED headlights, front and rear park assist, as well as traffic sign recognition. Some other items include autonomous emergency braking at low speeds, automatic wipers, and an infotainment system.
What about the price? 1
Coming at R386 900 (March 2021) doesn’t exactly make the Elegance a bargain. But the 1.2N Edition (without a turbocharger) is R92 000 cheaper and still has, like the Elegance, essential items such as 6 airbags and cruise control.
Disclaimer
This article must only be considered as information because car insurance is not straightforward. If you would like further information on car insurance, contact a registered financial service provider.
Now that you have bought your new Corsa, it needs to be protected with car insurance, which, by law, will have to be comprehensive should your car be financed by a bank. If you want more information about affordable car insurance with unique benefits, contact Prime South Africa about their affordable, comprehensive car insurance, including fixed premiums* and reduce-to-zero excess*. T and Cs apply.
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