Here’s the new petrol (and diesel) Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall/Opel made us wait to see the new internal combustion-engined Corsa, but surprise surprise – it looks almost identical to the electric version. This is no bad thing however, because it turns out that the new Corsa is a handsome car, no matter what’s hiding under the bonnet.

Speaking of that area, there will be three different engine options available in the UK (four if you include the EV). The base model comes with a naturally aspirated, 75bhp 1.2-litre petrol engine that’s teamed with a 5spd manual gearbox, whereas the step above is also a 1.2, but this time features a turbocharger and a choice between a 6spd manual or 8spd auto ‘box.

And for those that still want to fill up at the black pump, there will be a 1.5-litre diesel with 100bhp and 184lb ft of torque. All models will only come in five door versions though. 

Now, it’s worth remembering that this car was developed in just two years after the original Corsa replacement was scrapped following PSA Peugeot-Citroen’s takeover of Vauxhall/Opel. However, when our motoring editor Ollie Marriage got behind the wheel of a prototype version, he described it as “pretty good to drive”.

This is no doubt helped by the fact that the base model only weighs 980kg. Hurrah for weight saving.

Inside, the cabin looks smart and modern. You can have either a seven or 10-inch touchscreen and, thank the lord, there are separate heating controls! No scrolling through menus for you, dear Corsa driver.

Prices haven’t been announced as of yet – other than the post-government grant figure of £26,490 for the Corsa-e – but you can be sure that these ICE cars will be far cheaper to buy. In the market for a new small car? Could the Corsa’s looks tempt you?