As already mentioned in our Grandland Sprint Review, we’re happy that Opel stuck around to bring us cool little cars like this Corsa GS Line…
You should know: According to the world’s favourite community encyclopaedia, the Corsa badge has been placed on 18 million vehicles and it once wore the crown of best-selling vehicle worldwide; in 1998. I can certainly recall those round and cute Corsa B models, most of which were assembled by General Motors near Port Elizabeth.
More info: We got all Corsas except the very first A series, this striking flat grey example is a Corsa F. Although GM had already developed this series, the new owners (PSA Group) started fresh in 2017 with their sexy-sounding CMP/EMP1 platform; which this shares with sibling Mokka and cousin Peugeot 208.
What else? Although other power trains are available overseas, Stellantis only brings this compact hatchback with one engine choice: a 1.2L turbo-petrol 3-cylinder in two states of tune, with three trim levels and the choice of a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox. This GS-Line derivative is the best equipped, most expensive and more powerful model.
Why you shouldn’t: Its price of around R460,000 is a hard pill to swallow for most new buyers, also considering the amount of metal you get for your hard-earned money. In its defence, the Corsa GS-Line offers you plenty of crisp displays, most available communication and safety kit, plus a highly efficient drive train.
Ignoring the Germans, most competitors in this segment provide a similar spec level so it’s more a case of keeping up with the Jones’ than overtaking them. Typing of which, Opel S.A. claims a top speed of 208km/h and 0-100km/h in 8.7 seconds. Our best attempt, back in 2021 when they still called this the 96kW Elegance, was 8.59 seconds.
Why you should: With slightly higher compression and 230Nm on tap from just 1,750rpm onwards, this sporty GS-Line looks like a decent medium-heat hot hatch on paper. I’m glad to report that, next to great door thunks and impressive cabin materials, this car handles and goes with much vigour.
Other things which speak for this top-spec version are the four disc brakes, some pleather trim, full climate control, rain-sensing wipers, various active driver aids, a larger fuel tank (44 instead of 40L), some shiny black trim, extra front seat adjustments plus heating, as well as some subtle chrome eyeliner here or there.
Each new Corsa is sold with a 5-year/100,000km warranty and 3-year/45,000km service plan.
FULL SPEC LIST
| Engine: | 1,199cc in-line 3-cylinder turbo-petrol |
| Transmission: | 6-speed Automatic, FWD |
| Max. Power: | 96kW @ 5,500rpm |
| Max. Torque: | 230Nm @ 1,750rpm |
| Avg. cons.: | 6.3L/100km (claimed) |
| 0-100km/h: | 8.6 seconds (claimed) |
| Top Speed: | 208km/h (claimed) |
| List Price: | R459,900 |
