Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/513060
40 maltatoday, Sunday, 17 May 2015 Motoring Aggressive, crisp and nimble, the 2015 Opel Corsa retains only the name of a line-up dating back to 1982. The new design lines make it a joy to look at from any viewpoint while the updated interior screams comfort and tech. The dynamic, sculpted shapes and precisely designed details match the Corsa's silhouette, reflecting Opel's design philosophy - 'Sculptural Art- istry meets German Precision'. Adopting some design features from its smaller sibling, the Adam, the Corsa features two aluminium framed intakes built into the front bumper, which bolster the air-scoop built into the redesigned hood. The Arrowhead front lamps have a short lip under each air intake, giving the new Corsa an aggressive look, espe- cially when compared to the looks of its competitors. Aerodynamically, the new Corsa is half an inch closer to the ground than the previous model. Opel also teamed up with suspension special- ists Koni to create Opel's Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) system. Even at slow speed the steering is quite light, and the 'city steering' button further lightens things. The engine bay can feature any of the eight engine configurations, from 1.2 petrol to 1.4 Turbo. All en- gines comply with Euro 6 emissions standards. While the turbocharged 1.4-liter is identical to the previ- ous model, this time it delivers 207 BHP with 181 pound-feet of torque. A newly added overboost function gives an additional 26 pound-feet of torque. The engine is married to a new six-speed gearbox, sporting short and snappy shift- ing. The Corsa is now capable of 0-60mph in 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 143 mph. Inside the vehicle, the dimensions remain mostly unchanged. Five people can fit very comfortably on the nicely trimmed seats, though tall drivers could struggle. The rear seats split 60/40 increasing the load area inside the car. Storage inside the cabin includes various pockets and cups and nei- ther passenger nor driver can find an excuse to leave their phones ly- ing on the dash. The dash trim feels more solid than some of the Corsa's competitors, and the design team made a good choice of keeping the climate control/air conditioning settings away from the touch screen, aiding in instant air control. Cruise control and radio functions are built into the s t e e r i n g wheel. As you switch on Opel's In- tel l i L i n k, the touch- screen en- tertainment system's sensibly laid out menus lead you to the function you want to access. One can also download various apps including GPS and SatNav. However this uses your phone's data rather as the car does not have a built in GPS. The luggage boot features a fibre- constructed shelf under which one can place valuables, neatly hidden from intruding eyes if the parcel shelf is removed. When removed, the fibre cover creates additional storage space. The Corsa comes with six airbags and an electronic stability control system as standard. The stability control helps the driver regain con- trol quicker in the event of skidding. Additional safety features warn the driver of objects in his blind spot and automatic brake activation in stop/start scenarios if the vehicle's sensor reads an object getting close to the front bumper too quickly. Locally the car is available in five options - the Essentia in both 5 and 3 door version, the 5-door enjoy, and the 3-door Colour Edition and Sport. An optional Performance Package offers a limited-slip differential by Drexler, 18-inch wheels, Brembo brake system with larger discs, and a sport suspension setting. Since its debut at the Geneva Car Show, the new Opel Corsa, has se- cured six top awards for 2015: AU- TOBEST 'Best Buy Car of Europe for 2015', 2015 Most Sensible Car, Car of the Year in Romania, Greece and Serbia, Highland Car of the Year in Spain, Small Car Category Car of the Year in TV and Denmark's Best Car in Class. Locally imported by Cars Inter- national at Qormi, the Corsa has a starting price of €11,950. Menacing artistry meets crisp precision Motoring The latest Opel Corsa combines comfort, sharp styling and an exceptional driving experience