All-electric Opel Corsa here next month

Friday, 28 October 2022

The small Corsa hatchback is on course for a New Zealand debut.

Opel is continuing its local expansion with the Corsa small hatchback, available from November 2022.

Two models will be available, both coming in top-spec SRi trim with standard-fit LED matrix headlights, black exterior elements, a seven-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen, 17-inch wheels, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), and lane keep assist.

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Based on the bones of the Peugeot 208, the petrol-powered Corsa will use a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder with an eight-speed automatic like its French sibling. Only the front wheels are driven.

It’s pretty frugal on fuel, sipping just 5.2 litres per 100km, and emitting 120g/km of CO2, putting it in line for a $2438.79 rebate.

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The electric Corsa-e will also be available at launch.

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* Road test review: Peugeot 208 GT

The other model is the electric Corsa-e, which uses the guts of the Peugeot e-208. That means it has a single electric motor producing 100kW and 260Nm, with a claimed range of 383km per charge.

Opel also gives the electric Corsa semi-autonomous lane positioning assist, adaptive cruise control, AEB with added night function and pedestrian detection and a heated leather steering, along with an eight-year/160,000km battery warranty. Weirdly, Opel says the Corsa-e gets an alarm while the petrol Corsa doesn’t.

Pricing for the two is sharp, with the combustion version asking $36,990 and the electric coming in at $59,990, before any rebates are considered. Obviously the Corsa-e qualifies for the full $8625 rebate.

The first cars are due in November, and interested buyers can reserve their cars with a refundable $100 deposit.