Vauxhall Corsa F (facelift ) 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic

The Vauxhall Corsa F (facelift 2023): A Modern European Supermini

The Vauxhall Corsa F (facelift 2023) represents the latest iteration of a long-standing and highly successful supermini in the European market, particularly in the United Kingdom. As Vauxhall is the British sister brand of Opel (both part of the Stellantis group), the Corsa is essentially a rebadged Opel Corsa, tailored for the UK market. This sixth-generation Corsa, designated ‘F’, received a significant facelift in 2023, bringing refreshed styling, enhanced technology, and refined powertrains to maintain its competitive edge in the fiercely contested subcompact segment. While not sold in the United States, the Corsa is a critical volume model across Europe, renowned for its compact dimensions, practical interior, and fuel-efficient engines, making it a popular choice for urban commuting and first-time car buyers.

The 2023 facelift introduced a sharper, more modern aesthetic, aligning the Corsa with Vauxhall’s contemporary design language, including the brand’s ‘Vizor’ front fascia. Beyond visual updates, the refresh also brought technological advancements, including improved infotainment systems and a broader suite of driver-assistance features. This specific variant, the 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic, stands out as a strong performer within the Corsa lineup, offering a compelling blend of power, efficiency, and ease of use thanks to its turbocharged gasoline engine and sophisticated automatic transmission.

Engine & Performance: The Spirited 1.2 Turbo in the Vauxhall Corsa F (facelift 2023)

Under the hood, the Vauxhall Corsa F (facelift 2023) 1.2 Turbo variant is powered by a robust and efficient 1.2-liter (1199 cm³) inline three-cylinder gasoline engine. This powerplant features a turbocharger and intercooler, significantly boosting its output and responsiveness compared to naturally aspirated engines of similar displacement. With a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain and multi-port manifold injection, the engine is engineered for both performance and fuel economy.

The engine delivers a healthy 130 horsepower at 5500 rpm, translating to an impressive power output of 108.4 Hp per liter. More critically for everyday driving, it generates a substantial 169.64 lb.-ft. of torque, available from a low 1750 rpm. This broad torque band ensures brisk acceleration and flexible performance, making the Corsa feel agile and capable in various driving conditions, from city streets to highway cruising.

Power is channeled to the front wheels via an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission. This gearbox is designed to optimize both performance and efficiency, providing smooth and precise shifts. The combination allows the Corsa to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 8.3 seconds, with a top speed of 129.87 mph. Despite its spirited performance, the 1.2 Turbo engine is remarkably fuel-efficient, achieving a combined fuel consumption (WLTP) of approximately 42.8 – 43.6 US mpg. It also meets stringent Euro 6d (6.3) emission standards, producing 121-123 g/km of CO2, thanks in part to its integrated Start & Stop System and a particulate filter. This commitment to efficiency and lower emissions underscores its suitability for modern European environmental regulations.

Design & Features: Practicality Meets Modern Style

The 2023 facelift of the Vauxhall Corsa F brings a refreshed and contemporary aesthetic to its familiar five-door hatchback body style. Measuring 159.84 inches in length, 77.17 inches in width (including mirrors), and 56.42 inches in height, the Corsa maintains its compact footprint, ideal for navigating congested urban environments. The wheelbase of 99.92 inches contributes to a stable ride while maximizing interior space for its class.

The exterior design updates include the prominent “Vauxhall Vizor” front end, integrating the grille and headlights into a single, sleek black panel, giving the Corsa a more assertive and modern face. New wheel designs, such as the 17-inch rims fitted with 205/45 R17 tires on this specific model, further enhance its visual appeal.

Inside, the Corsa offers seating for five occupants across its five-door configuration. The interior benefits from improved materials and updated infotainment options that were part of the facelift, providing a more refined and technologically advanced cabin experience. Practicality is a strong suit, with a minimum trunk capacity of 10.91 cubic feet, expanding significantly to 39.48 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, offering ample space for groceries, luggage, or larger items.

For safety and driving dynamics, the Corsa is equipped with ventilated disc brakes (381 mm) at the front and disc brakes (356 mm) at the rear, supported by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The steering system features an electric power-assisted rack and pinion setup, ensuring light and precise steering feel, particularly beneficial for parking and low-speed maneuvers. The vehicle’s maximum weight capacity is 3637.63 lbs., and it boasts a respectable towing capacity of up to 2645.55 lbs. with brakes, or 1278.68 lbs. without, adding to its versatility.

Technical Specifications

Legacy & Market Impact: The Enduring Appeal of the Vauxhall Corsa

The Vauxhall Corsa has a rich legacy in the European and particularly the UK automotive landscape, consistently ranking among the best-selling cars for decades. Its success stems from a formula of affordability, compact size, practical usability, and a generally pleasant driving experience. The F-generation, and especially the Vauxhall Corsa F (facelift 2023), continues this tradition while adapting to modern demands for connectivity, safety, and efficiency.

In its primary market, the Corsa competes head-to-head with formidable rivals such as the Ford Fiesta (though production of the Fiesta has recently ended), Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, and its platform sibling, the Peugeot 208. The 2023 facelift ensures the Corsa remains fresh and competitive against these strong contenders, offering a compelling package that blends stylish design with robust engineering. Its 1.2 Turbo (130 Hp) Automatic variant is particularly significant as it offers a more premium driving experience within the supermini segment, appealing to buyers looking for more performance and comfort without sacrificing fuel economy.

The Corsa’s market impact is profound. It serves as a gateway vehicle for many new drivers, a reliable second car for families, and a cost-effective daily driver for commuters. Its consistent presence at the top of sales charts in the UK underscores its widespread acceptance and trust among consumers. The introduction of the facelifted model, with its sharper looks and improved technology, reaffirms Vauxhall’s commitment to keeping the Corsa relevant in an evolving market that is increasingly moving towards electrification. While this specific model is purely internal combustion, Vauxhall also offers a fully electric Corsa-e, demonstrating the brand’s dual strategy to cater to diverse customer needs while transitioning to a more sustainable future. The Corsa remains a cornerstone of Vauxhall’s lineup, embodying the brand’s ethos of delivering accessible, well-engineered vehicles to the mass market.