The Opel Corsa E (fifth generation) is not a 100% new model, but rather a very deep evolution (major technical and aesthetic facelift) of the Corsa D. It is based on the same SCCS platform (developed jointly with Fiat in the 2000s), which explains its relatively high weight for the category. However, Opel completely revised the running gear, steering, sound insulation, and especially the interior, which made an impressive qualitative leap. Under the hood, the big novelty is the introduction of the brilliant 3-cylinder 1.0 Ecotec Turbo direct injection engine. It's a pragmatic city car, offering an excellent price/equipment ratio on the used market, even if it lacks a bit of dynamism compared to a Peugeot 208 or a Ford Fiesta. Overall design score: 7.5/10
The Opel Corsa E is an extremely rational used car choice. Without excelling in any specific area, it does everything correctly and is available at very competitive prices. The best buy is undoubtedly the 1.0 Ecotec Turbo version (90 or 115 hp), which considerably modernizes driving while offering good reliability. The 1.2 and 1.4 atmospheric versions are for small budgets looking for simple and robust mechanics, at the expense of performance. Avoid the 1.3 CDTI if you drive in the city; DPF and timing chain problems will negate any fuel savings.