Vauxhall Corsa F 1.2 (75 Hp)

The Vauxhall Corsa F 1.2 (75 Hp): A Pillar of European Urban Mobility

The Vauxhall Corsa F 1.2 (75 Hp), produced from July 2019 to July 2023, represents a significant chapter in the storied history of the Corsa nameplate. As a pivotal model in the European subcompact, or “supermini,” segment, the Corsa F marked a new era for Vauxhall, particularly following its acquisition by the PSA Group (now part of Stellantis). This generation of the Corsa, specifically the 1.2-liter gasoline variant with 75 horsepower, emerged as a practical, efficient, and accessible choice for a broad spectrum of buyers across the United Kingdom and continental Europe. While Vauxhall models are not sold in the United States under their original branding, the Corsa F embodies the design philosophies and engineering priorities that define the competitive European automotive landscape, focusing on compact dimensions, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable urban driving experience.

The F-generation Corsa was built on the Common Modular Platform (CMP) architecture, shared with its French cousin, the Peugeot 208. This platform allowed for greater flexibility, including the integration of both internal combustion engines and fully electric powertrains. The 1.2-liter (75 Hp) gasoline model, the focus of this analysis, served as a crucial entry point into the Corsa lineup, offering a compelling blend of affordability and modern features, tailored for the demands of city life and economical motoring.

Engine and Performance of the Vauxhall Corsa F 1.2 (75 Hp)

At the heart of the Vauxhall Corsa F 1.2 (75 Hp) lies a compact and efficient 1.2-liter (1199 cm³) F12XEL inline three-cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated gasoline unit is engineered for economical performance, delivering 75 horsepower at 5750 rpm. While 75 horsepower may appear modest by American standards, it is perfectly suited for the Corsa’s intended purpose as an urban commuter and light-duty highway cruiser in Europe, where narrow streets and higher fuel prices prioritize efficiency over outright speed.

The engine generates 87.03 lb.-ft. of torque at a relatively low 2750 rpm, providing adequate responsiveness for city driving and manageable acceleration from a standstill. The power is delivered to the front wheels via a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission, a common and cost-effective choice for entry-level models in this segment. This manual gearbox allows drivers to maximize the engine’s power band and contributes to the vehicle’s impressive fuel economy figures.

In terms of efficiency, the Vauxhall Corsa F 1.2 (75 Hp) excels, boasting a combined WLTP fuel consumption range of 44.4 to 39.9 US mpg. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious drivers and those looking to minimize their environmental footprint. With CO2 emissions rated at 93 g/km (WLTP), the Corsa F 1.2 comfortably meets the stringent Euro 6d emission standard, underscoring its commitment to cleaner motoring. The inclusion of a Start & Stop System further enhances fuel efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, reducing idling and urban emissions. Performance-wise, the Corsa F 1.2 (75 Hp) achieves a top speed of 108.12 mph, which is more than sufficient for typical European highway speeds and daily commuting needs.

Design and Features

The Vauxhall Corsa F generation adopted a contemporary and dynamic design language, moving away from the more conservative styling of its predecessors. As a 5-door hatchback, it offers a practical and versatile body type, highly favored in the European market for its blend of compact dimensions and interior spaciousness. The Corsa F measures 159.84 inches in length, 69.49 inches in width (77.17 inches including mirrors), and 56.42 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 99.92 inches. These dimensions ensure easy maneuverability in congested urban environments and tight parking spaces.

Inside, the Corsa F provides seating for five occupants, designed with practicality and ergonomics in mind. The trunk offers a respectable 10.91 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, which can expand significantly to 39.48 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down, providing excellent versatility for hauling groceries, luggage, or larger items. The design incorporates a modern aesthetic with clean lines and a purposeful stance, complemented by 16-inch wheels and 195/55 R16 tires, which strike a good balance between ride comfort and handling.

Key features, typical for a modern European supermini, include an electric power steering system, offering light and precise control for city driving and effortless parking. Safety is also a priority, with standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and a robust chassis design. The braking system comprises ventilated discs on the front (356 mm) for effective stopping power, paired with drum brakes on the rear (203 mm), a common and reliable setup for vehicles in this class. While specific details on advanced driver-assistance systems are not provided for this base model, the Corsa F platform was designed to accommodate a range of technologies, including various airbags, electronic stability control, and potentially other driver aids, to meet stringent European safety standards and achieve favorable Euro NCAP ratings.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact of the Vauxhall Corsa F

The Vauxhall Corsa has long been a household name in the United Kingdom and a significant contender in the broader European supermini segment since its introduction in 1982 (as the Opel Corsa/Vauxhall Nova). The Corsa F, launched in 2019, continued this legacy, adapting to the evolving demands of modern motoring and representing a crucial product in Vauxhall’s portfolio under new ownership. The 1.2 (75 Hp) variant, in particular, played a vital role as the accessible entry point, making the Corsa F an attractive option for first-time buyers, urban commuters, and fleets seeking economical and reliable transport.

Its market impact was considerable, competing fiercely against established rivals such as the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, and its platform-mate, the Peugeot 208. The Corsa F’s adoption of the PSA CMP platform was a strategic move, allowing it to benefit from shared engineering, modern safety features, and a greater emphasis on efficiency and connectivity. This platform also enabled the simultaneous development of an all-electric Corsa-e, broadening the model’s appeal and future-proofing the lineup, though the 1.2-liter gasoline variant remained a high-volume seller.

The Vauxhall Corsa F 1.2 (75 Hp) built a reputation for its low running costs, decent reliability, and practical interior. Its compact dimensions and nimble handling made it an ideal choice for navigating crowded European cities, while its efficient 1.2-liter engine ensured affordability at the gas pump and lower taxation due to its Euro 6d compliance. The model’s success underscored the enduring demand for well-engineered, value-oriented subcompacts in a market increasingly shifting towards SUVs, proving that the traditional hatchback still held significant appeal for a large segment of buyers. The Corsa F, and especially this entry-level variant, cemented its position as a quintessential European small car, offering accessible mobility without compromising on modern standards of safety, comfort, and environmental responsibility.