An updated Corsa VXR takes on the Fiesta ST

Vauxhall has unveiled a revamped Corsa VXR. The new model, which will be sold across the rest of Europe as the Opel Corsa OPC, is set to make its public debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.

As before, power comes from a 1.6 litre turbocharged petrol engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. However, output has been increased by 15 bhp (11 kW / 15 PS) to 204 bhp (152 kW / 207 PS). Peak torque meanwhile is 245 Nm (180 lb/ft), a figure that can temporarily increase to 280 Nm (206 lb/ft) courtesy of an overboost facility.

Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2015) Front Side 1

To help keep things under control, the revised Corsa VXR gains Koni’s Frequency Selective Damping. This technology is essentially a form of passive adaptive damping, because it’s engineered to maintain ride comfort at lower speeds but then become tauter when quicker progress is required.

Also part of the chassis specification is a more responsive steering set-up and a choice of driving modes which can, by degrees, switch off the electronic stability program and traction control.

Optionally available is the Performance Package. Among its components are a Drexler limited-slip differential, harsher FSD settings, larger Brembo front brake discs and a set of 18” alloy wheels.

One of the Vauxhall’s main rivals continues to be the Ford Fiesta ST. Looking at the stats below, it’s clear that both are very closely matched on pace (despite the Corsa having a fairly substantial 24 bhp advantage).

Perhaps surprisingly the Fiesta is still a clear winner when it comes to efficiency, though. Indeed, not only should the Ford’s fuel costs be quite a bit less, but based on the current CO2-derived rates its annual road tax is going to be £75 cheaper too.

Model Vauxhall
Corsa VXR 		Ford
Fiesta ST
Engine 1.6 litre petrol,
turbocharged 		1.6 litre petrol,
turbocharged
Transmission Six-speed manual Six-speed manual
Power 204 bhp
(152 kW / 207 PS) 		180 bhp
(134 kW / 182 PS)
Torque 280 Nm
(206 lb/ft) 		290 Nm
(214 lb/ft)
0-62 mph (100 km/h) 6.8 secs 6.9 secs
Top speed 143 mph
(230 km/h) 		139 mph
(224 km/h)
Combined cycle 37.7mpg
(7.5 l/100km) 		47.9 mpg
(5.9 l/100 km)
CO2 emissions 174 g/km 138 g/km

UK deliveries of the 2015 Corsa VXR are due to begin in May. A price has yet to be announced.

Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2015) Rear SideOpel Corsa OPC (2015) Front Side

Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2015) Front Side 2Opel Corsa OPC (2015) Dashboard

Related posts:
2015 Vauxhall / Opel Corsavan unveiled
2015 Corsa first view

Images © General Motors.

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