Opel Corsa

   The new Opel Corsa D is produced since 2006.

   It is powered by an already familiar petrol engines, which are slightly uprated. Also there were developed three new turbo diesels. All of them have more work to do, because the new car is heavier. Avoid the 1.0-liter petrol and the 1.3-liter diesel units, delivering 60 and 75 hp respectively, if you a constantly driving on the motorway. The star buy is a 1.3-liter turbo diesel, delivering 90 hp. It is lively in the city and can stand it's own on the motorway. Unfortunately car with this engine is pricey.

   The new Corsa is based on a platform, codeveloped by Fiat and Opel, and also used on the Fiat Punto. The base car is good to drive. There is also a firmer set-up, used on the SXi model.

   The new Opel Corsa is very refined. Most of the engines work pretty quiet, except the 1.7-liter diesel. Very little road noise protrudes into the cabin. Some wind noise is present, but it do not makes you feel uncomfortable.

   The new Corsa is an attractive buy. It's average fuel consumption is very low. The big test for Opel now is to improve residual values. Some of the engines are already proven, while the mechanical layout is relatively simple, so there shouldn't be concerns about the reliability.

   The first impression count a lot, so Opel has made big efforts to ensure the Corsa's fixtures and fittings look and feel right. From the inside the new Corsa has a big car-feel, with quality fittings and friendly looking control layout. Unlike the previous model the new car has a nice choice of color and trim options.

   At last this small car comes with a comfortable driver's position, but only in the higher-spec models. For the first time Corsa has got driver's seat-height and two-way steering wheel adjustments. Thick roof pillars restrict all round visibility.

   Three- and five-door models are the same size, but the three-door hatch should be used only as a four-seater, because it's sides taper towards the back. Yet five persons can get themselves comfortable inside the five-door model, with enough head- and legroom for all of them. Corsa's boot is small, but the higher-spec models offer a split-folding rear seats and a boot floor that can be lowered, for added versatility.

   Opel has been more generous than ever with the new Corsa. Every model has at least two airbags and six on most models. Brakes are better and there is plenty of stuff to help you avoid the accident. The Opel Corsa scored 5 stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests. Only a few cars in this class received such a high evaluation.

   Every model comes with a CD player, central locking and electric mirrors.

   Production of the new Opel Corsa D still continues.

   Advantages: Stylish Opel Corsa is generous on space. Furthermore it is one of the safest cars in it's class.

   Disadvantages: Drivability is sacrificed for the fuel consumption. Visibility isn't great.

   Verdict: Stylish, spacious and affordable.

   Also consider: Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo.