Vauxhall Corsa-e review (2019-2023)

Anyone familiar with the dimensions, style and overall appearance of the previous Corsa interiors won’t be too surprised by the Corsa-e’s insides.

Driving position

The battery’s position doesn’t affect the cabin room, which is pleasingly generous up front, if a tiny bit cramped in the back.

None of the seats offer lumbar support, but they’re all very comfortable nonetheless.

Tech and features

While it’s all change as to how this Vauxhall moves, there’s not much cutting edge about the looks of the dashboard.

It’s pleasant enough, with nice black plastics that don’t look cheap, but nor do they particularly excite. Anyone looking for a dynamic interior will be disappointed.

The advantages of chunky buttons, as opposed to hidden menu options, are obvious – you know where things are when you need them.

Altogether, the inside is as straight-laced as they come.

Kit-wise, the infotainment system is simple and ticks all the boxes.

We’ve come across more intuitive set-ups, but the seven-inch touchscreen digital display is sharp and easy to use.

There’s a sat-nav, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Rear parking sensors come as a neat addition at this level and price point too.

Handling and ride comfort

Vauxhalls aren’t exactly renowned for their class-leading performance or handling. In fact, they don’t try to be. They’re more about safety, security and comfort.

The Corsa-e doesn’t break any of these conventions, so don’t expect to be getting into a hot hatch.

That said, the Corsa-e is no slouch - especially in Sport mode. Being electric and lumbered with a giant battery means it’s heavier than the non-electric Corsa.

You wouldn’t know it - there’s a real lightness of touch and zip when you put your foot down.

Drivers may pick out a slight lean into corners, a small amount of heaviness in the steering and a firm suspension, but none of those things make the car anything other than a pleasure to drive.

Initial acceleration is good, making town driving a cinch (if you’ll pardon the pun). Motorways are a breeze too.

Boot space

The Corsa-e hasn’t made much of an effort to provide enormous amounts of boot space - it is an EV supermini.

Only the most pedantic and observant Corsa fans will notice that there’s a slight drop in capacity compared to previous generations.

Most owners won’t bat an eyelid at what’s on offer and will easily fit shopping, luggage, buggies and anything else in the back.

When you consider the size of the battery being accommodated, the boot space is actually fairly impressive.

If boot room is a big priority for you, perhaps look at the Renault Zoe or the Mini Electric.

Storage solutions

As for space and storage elsewhere, there are nice little options but nothing particularly innovative.

Range

The offiical range for the Corsa-e is a touch over 200 miles, but if you account for a real-world range of 150 miles, then you should be able to plan journeys accordingly.

Vauxhall claims that to charge a Corsa-e from completely flat to 100% charged at home, it’ll take you 7.5 hours.

Reliability

A hugely popular car from a manufacturer that pays attention to safety and reliability, you won’t be hugely surprised to learn that the Corsa-e - only in production since 2020 - has no commonly reported issues or faults.