2007 Opel Corsa GSi review

Opel Corsa GSi review:

The theme of the new Opel Corsa GSi is `more substance than show`. In contrast to the Opel Corsa OPC, which was launched a few months ago, the new GSi radiates subtle sportiness rather than uncompromising high-performance, and will be unveiled at the Barcelona Motor Show (June 7 - 17, 2007). The GSi`s powerful 1.6 ECOTEC turbo engine produces 110 kW/150 hp at 5000 rpm, positioning the new sporty model between the Corsa Sport 1.7 CDTI (125 hp) and the high-performance Corsa OPC (192 hp).

"We`re pleased to launch another model, with the legendary GSi heritage. Opel fans know just what the three letters GSi stand for: plenty of fun, good value for money and no compromises in everyday use or driving conditions," explains Alain Visser, Executive Director European Marketing Opel. "The Corsa GSi combines the virtues of its compact dimensions with impressive performance over the entire rpm range, which actually positions the model in the next higher car class." The addition of the GSi to the Corsa model line expands the range to five gasoline and three diesel variants with a performance spectrum of 60 to 192 hp. Over 320.000 new Corsas have been sold across Europe since the fourth-generation`s launch in October 2006.

Corsa GSi customers have the choice of a three or five-door variant. Powered by the 1.6-liter turbo gasoline engine, the new Corsa has a top speed of 210 km/h and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds. The Electric Power Steering (EPS) with variable progressive feedback curve and lowered sport chassis (front: 18 mm, rear: 15 mm) with ESP as standard ensure agile handling.

The Corsa GSi`s styling is also subtly sporty, with exterior modifications such as a front spoiler lip, rear apron lip and spoiler, color-keyed side sills, chrome sport tailpipe and 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior`s dynamic ambience is emphasized by the comfortable, charcoal/red upholstered sport seats with high side support, a leather steering wheel with red inserts, red safety belts and aluminum-style pedals.


LEGENDARY SRi BADGE RETURNS TO CORSA RANGE

* New performance version of award-winning Corsa
* Powered by new 150PS turbo 1.6-litre engine or 125PS 1.7 diesel
* Available with three or five doors, on sale in September

Hot on the heels of the Corsa VXR, Vauxhall has revealed that its legendary SRi badge is to return on another performance version of the new Corsa.

Set to reach showrooms in September as either a three-door or a five-door, the Corsa SRi is designed to appeal to buyers who don`t need all the performance of the VXR but still appreciate style and sharp driving dynamics.

Petrol versions are powered by a new detuned 150PS version of the turbocharged engine found in Corsa VXR, taking the SRi from 0-60mph in just 7.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 130mph.

The power is kept in check by a specially developed sports chassis, lowered by 18mm at the front and 15mm at the rear and featuring ESP as standard. The power steering also features variable progressive feedback, meaning the weight of the steering adjusts electronically to keep the driver well informed at all times.

For those buyers wanting more economy a diesel will also be offered, using the 1.7-litre CDTi with 125PS. As you`d expect from a car wearing the SRi badge, it offers impressive performance, accelerating from 0-60mph in 9.3 seconds, going on to a top speed of 121 mph and yet achieves an average of 58.9 mpg.

Purposeful looks are provided by a front spoiler, deep body-coloured side sills, 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome sports exhaust pipe and subtle tailgate spoiler. Inside, red-detailed sports seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel with red inserts, alloy pedals and red seatbelts further set the performance tone.

Corsa SRi is available to order from 23 June, prices will be announced later this month and the first cars will arrive at retailers in September.