Vauxhall Corsa 2006 Pictures 
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specifications
Vauxhall Corsa 2006
There’s a stark contrast between the cute Disney character appeal of the standard Corsa’s and the sinister secrets of the VXR
The Vauxhall Corsa brand has been around for years it’s true but there’s been plenty of investment in its modern day adaptation and enough new characters to keep us drawn to the plot. Its larger dimensions are certainly welcomed and we always like a lot of choice in the power stakes.
In the petrol range you’ve got a modest 1.0litre, as well as a 1.2 and 1.4 but if its diesel you’re after you can decide between an economical 1.3litre CD TI or a more ferocious 123bhp 1.7litre engine. We’ll have to wait and see what the stats are for the range-topping VXR but we’re expecting it to play a star role.
The VXR will only be available as a 3-door although there are five door models available in the Corsa range. Aside from the obvious, the five door also has more head room and luggage space. You can even opt for a panoramic model which provides more sunlight in the cabin due to its lengthy windscreen which stretches right up to the roof. The design of the rear doors are another key benefit as they allow for easier access. Better visibility at night is achieved by Hallogen Adaptive Front Lighting and the five door’s more conservative tail lights also distinguish it from the three door.
Both the three and five door exhibit the familiar V-stamped grille but the radical wrap around headlamps make it a little more exotic. The samba-type look is carried through at the rear with the quirky angular tail lights and prominent bumper. There’s no mistaking those majestically extravagant 18” alloys either.
To add to the Corsa’s kidish charm are the ‘chamelion’ materials in its cabin which feature Velcro and zips. This allows you to change the Corsa’s materials according to your mood or the latest season’s trends. The back-lit dials are then highly animated against the dash for maximum impact.
The new supermini is not just a show piece though; it also provides plenty of infotainment. As well as listening to the best hits of the summer, selected from your MP3, it also has Bluetooth connectivity. Then to keep the temperature just right you can adjust the climate control settings to match your own personal preference.
To further elevate it in the ratings its chassis has been re-developed to further enhance the ride and handling. As standard you get Variable Progressive Power-steering which makes low speed manoeuvres and parking a breeze while the steering feels firmer and more weighted at low speeds. The Corsa also has improved stability and Enhanced Understeer Control (EUC)
The epic tales of the Vauxhall Corsa will be coming to show rooms near you by the end of September and prices are expected to start at around £8,000.
Verdict
FOR: Practicality and versatility especially on the five door
AGAINST: Too early to say.
CONCLUSION: The new and improved Corsa is a promising addition to the Vauxhall family. The five door is particularly appealing with its additional features and practicalities. However if you want something a bit more daring and overtly sporty the VXR should be worth the wait.
Spec
ENGINE: 1.7litre CD Ti
Co2 (g/km)/tax: 135g/km
POWER: 123bhp
0-60mph (sec): 10.5
TOP SPEED: 116mph
MPG: /-/-/57mpg (urban/extra-urban/combined)
TRANSMISSION: 5 speed manual
WHEELS: 16″
PRICE: £12,490-£13,150
RIVALS: Peugeot 207, Fiat Punto, Renault Clio Dynamic, Suzuki Swift GLX
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