Topgear News
Bold new corsa is here
Posted on May 17, 2006 @ 3:42 pm
A star is born. After months of designing, refining and testing, Vauxhall has finally released these exclusive first official pictures of its all-new Corsa, which promises to be the centrepiece of the British Motor Show in London in July.
Auto Express knows more about the Corsa than anyone else. We’ve charted the newcomer’s development from its first outing to its final reveal. And here, we show you all the information released by Vauxhall so far, as well as exposing even more details which bosses at the company don’t want you to know yet.
Ready to be launched into an ultra-competitive market, the Corsa will have to better the Peugeot 207, Fiat Grande Punto, Renault Clio and Suzuki Swift - which meet in our road test on Page 50. Matching the outgoing car’s huge sales won’t be easy, but Vauxhall has created a model with all the features and engines to get to the top of the class.
Longer and wider than its predecessor, the newcomer presents Vauxhall’s latest styling cues, including sweeping bodywork and wraparound lights. Gradually exposed over months of spyshots and insider scoops, the car is characterised by its headlamps which stretch back up the wings. The Luton firm’s trademark V-grille is also prominent, and in profile the Corsa resembles an Astra.
Based on the same platform as the new Grande Punto, the Vauxhall has a similar small window ahead of the door at the base of the A-pillar. At the rear, the supermini is far more distinctive than its predecessor, with teardrop lamp clusters and a deep bumper.
Inside, the Corsa’s cabin will be much improved in terms of practicality and quality. For a detailed view of the dash, turn to Page 8, but the Vauxhall has a couple of tricks up its sleeve that aren’t immediately obvious. It won’t be hard to find the right switch or button inside due to unique illuminated plastics. Much of the switchgear is opaque and backlit, giving the cabin a bright finish. What’s more, the ambient lighting colours are selected to match the shade of the exterior paintwork.
Another neat addition which will be revealed at the Corsa’s launch is its Peugeot 1007-style ‘chameleon’ seat covers. Velcro and zips will be used on the dash and other trim to allow owners to swap between different materials and colour schemes. Aside from these imaginative features, the cabin has an upmarket appearance. Round air vents add character, while the centre console features switchgear from the Astra.
What’s more, Vauxhall is committed to fitting out its new supermini with the latest technology. In-car entertainment systems will get MP3 and Bluetooth connectivity, while the driver will be able to have personal settings for the climate control system.
When it goes on sale in late September, the Vauxhall will be offered with three petrol engines and two diesels. The petrol range will comprise 1.0, 1.2 and 1.4-litre powerplants, but it’s the oil-burners that get the latest technology. The frugal 1.3 CDTI will be joined by an all-new 123bhp 1.7-litre diesel. A fire-breathing VXR will appear early next year, promising to beat all the competition off the line.
Once the Corsa has arrived in the UK, Vauxhall will also carry out its own chassis development work to ensure the car has the ride and handling to take on class leaders. Variable progressive power-steering is standard-fit, making turning easy at low speeds and adding weight to the wheel on the open road. The latest stability systems will also be employed, with the addition of Enhanced Understeer Control (EUC).
Prices for the new machine have yet to be announced, but Vauxhall is unlikely to introduce significant rises over the existing model. As a result, entry-level Corsas are tipped to start at around £8,000, while range-toppers at launch will cost approximately £13,000.
(this article was written by Chris Thorp and taken from autoexpress.co.uk)
November 6th, 2006 at 3:55 pm
Just bought one awiting delivery in Jan 07. Test drove the 1.3 CDI SXI had a great time doing 80 before I knew it. Great inside centre console looks good comfy seats and a cracking steering wheel.
Can’t wait to take delivery
November 8th, 2006 at 9:30 am
I have just bought a new SXI a/c 1.7L CDTI, got a delivery date of 16 Dec, cant wait! ..
November 8th, 2006 at 12:22 pm
Hi Ally,
Nice one………….
Just thought I’d say that I was a little disappointed in the colours available on the SXI range only 3 metallic………. never mind just being picky I suppose.
Drop a comment on the board after you take delivery just to let us know how you are finding it, also the MPG would be good to know about as I will be using mine mostly for commuting.
Take care
November 10th, 2006 at 6:38 pm
Got my 1.2 SXi already, just gotta get it all insured and legit before they let me take it away :(
Haven’t actually test-driven one before but I’ve seen just it (in metro blue) and it looks so NICE!!!
It’s like Christmas when I was a 6 years old, I cannot wait five more days!!
November 11th, 2006 at 9:46 pm
hi guys just bought an sxi collecting it this monday cant wait
November 20th, 2006 at 7:02 pm
watch the dealers who wont give you a definate date for delivery - they are selling your order on and fobbing you off with extended delivery dates
November 25th, 2006 at 11:48 am
I’ve had a nightmare trying to get this car!
I ordered a 1.3 tdci with SatNav at the beginning of October. The order was rejected because they said they’re not doing the SatNav anymore (even today, it’s still on the website).
So, I asked about the 6 disc CD-changed instead. Nope.
Annoyed, I played my order (early in October) for a 1.7cdti SXI a/c with the Plus Pack (cruise control, computer etc.) and Automatic wipers (includes the automatic lights and anti-dazzle mirror).
After seeing the delivery date above of 16th Dec, I popped into the dealer. I was told it was down for the 15th December. Excellent.
Yesterday, I got a call from the dealer. Apparently, all the 1.7’s have been pulled, and they’re starting again (I don’t know what this means - the details were vague). All delivery dates have been scrapped, and I *may* get my car in January.
I’m really annoyed at the whole cockup around the launch of this car, and I’m not holding my breath about getting it in January. I’m close to cancelling and going elsewhere :(
‘
It’s a shame - because yesterday I drove the 100ps version of this engine in an Astra, and it flew. I can’t imagine how fun the Corsa will be to drive. I guess I’m not going to find out anytime soon :-((
If anyone else has ordered a 1.7, I’d be interested in hearing if they’re having similar issues. Send my an email - “tgf.corsa @ dantup.me.uk” (without the spaces).
November 27th, 2006 at 9:43 am
Hi
Anybody know whats going on with the dealers, I have had three delivery dats so far, calling them again this morning, supposed to be getting it next monday, if not I am going to give it them!!!
December 15th, 2006 at 1:56 pm
Apparently my deliver date is 17th December. They’ve called twice and been given the same one, so maybe I will get it this year after all. Fingers crossed - hoping for a call today or Monday to tell me it’s arrived, and we can sort the paperwork out. Not holding my breath though :-(
December 18th, 2006 at 5:47 pm
This is a joke. I’ve spoken to the dealer, and it’s now going to be January, but they can’t tell me anything other than it didn’t turn up today.
I’ve phoned the number on the Vauxhall Website and was told they can’t help me unless I give them a chasis number (which they can go to the factory with).
I’m getting close to cancelling my order now - not because of the delay, but because Vauxhall aren’t telling anyone WTF is going on.
I’ll be unlikely to buy from them again if this is how they work.
December 19th, 2006 at 10:11 am
Hi Danny,
Similar thing in the Kent area. Was supposed to do the paperwork this week but it looks like this is now put off until the New Year. Probably Vauxhall did not expect the demand. Anyway you could always look at as a late Xmas present. I wouldn’t cancel the order you will probably regret it as everyone is saying that it is a great car. I took a look at the new Peugeot before looking at the Corsa, I have to say that it didn’t come close. Hang in there Danny.
Dave
December 19th, 2006 at 12:10 pm
It’s not due to demand, there are problems with the 1.7tdci engine (but nobody will tell me any more).
I don’t mind waiting, I just want to have a *rough* idea of when I’ll get my car. Currently the garage are just saying January because they know it won’t make December - but for all they know, it could be Feb.
The annoying thing is that my car hit Week 42 (built and ready for sending out!) weeks ago. It’s sat somewhere completely finished (possibly with the exception of a fix for this engine problem!) waiting for me!
December 23rd, 2006 at 12:22 pm
Hi Guys
Finally got mine two weeks ago but then had to go to Fuerteventura for a week (got back this morning) so only done about 400 miles but hang in there its well worth it, in the end mine cam a week early. Its frustrating though to think about the long wait, Vauxhall really need to get their act together. Whats this engine problem that Danny mentioned, not noticed anything on mine so far, apart from the height adjustable seat sinking down every few days, will need to keep an eye on that.
Its dififculy enough seeing ovber the bonnet when its at its highest position, but all in all massively better than older car, drives like a much more expensive car, and trim is excellent quality, they should sell thousands, but not too soon I hope, as I have only seen one other so far. Happy Christmas to all, and keep reporting back to this site, its one on its own!!
December 23rd, 2006 at 1:05 pm
I was called into the dealer and told they wouldn’t make my delivery date because there was a problem with the 1.7 engine, and production had been stopped (it’s since been restarted, with new cars rolling off towards end of Jan). My car had already been built, so I was told it might be fixed and sent to me.
I phoned the number of the Vauxhall website last week to see if they knew any more, and they just told me that there is a technical problem with the 1.7 which they’re fixing before sending cars out to customers.
Was yours a 1.7? If so, when did you order? Mine was early October, and I was told there had only been a handful of them ordered at that time, and assumed I’d get mine at the same time as other early orders! :(
December 24th, 2006 at 3:35 pm
No mate mine was a 1.2. It was my first totally new car and I was a bit keen constantly contacting them for updates, however it arrived as I said about a week earlier than my third estimate (which was only 10 days after my first unrealistic delivery date)
My car is a club 1.2 with alloy wheel plus pack, hope you get your soon, cant imagine what a 1.7 must be like, the 1.2 is pretty nippy, good on fuel and no change in insurance so it does me.
December 25th, 2006 at 1:15 pm
I guess that explains you getting yours on time :)
I originally ordered the 1.3tdci, because it slightly outperformed the 1.4 petrol, and my current car is a 1.4 with no air con, so I didn’t want to go to something weedier. When I found out my order was rejected because they’re no longer doing the SatNav, I thought it’d be nice to go up to the 1.7tdci instead (pretty much same price as 1.3 with SatNav!).
I’ve gone for the 1.7tdci SXI a/c 3dr with the Plus Pack and automatic wipers (/lights/mirror) in Black Saphire. Should be nice (when I get it!).
It’s my 5th car (4th new). My last car was a new Hyundai Coupe, which was pretty awesome, so I’m hoping this one is as enjoyable as that was to drive =)
December 27th, 2006 at 4:27 pm
Spoken to the Customer Care people, who phoned the marketing dept (why are they in charge of deliveries??), and was told my car is on it’s way to the UK, so it should be here within a week or two (xmas holding things up), and on Friday they’ll have a definate delivery date for me.
Not holding my breath though - been there before ;)
Will post back here on Friday.
January 4th, 2007 at 1:27 pm
My car is finally at the garage :D
I’m gonna go drive it with trade plates tonight, and I’ll be able to have it next week =))
January 8th, 2007 at 2:04 pm
Saga over. I have my car. Definately worth the wait! =)
January 8th, 2007 at 8:18 pm
Good to hear you got the car. Keep an eye on any engine vibration or transmision vibration between 60 to 65 mph, I have got some, vauxhall cant find the answer and are waiting for an identical car to “replicate” the problem to decide whether it is a fault or a charecteristic of the car!!
Otherwise cant fault it so far.
January 22nd, 2007 at 1:18 pm
I’ve not had that, but there’s a rattle at around 1200rpm. Happens intermittently as I drive around, but you can make it happen every time by running at 1200rpm, then push the accelerator quite hard, and let it off again. It’ll vibrate quite badly both as you push down and let up.
It was in the garage Saturday and they “fixed” it. It still happens, so next week they’re having it for a few days to take the dash apart (and hopefully not just fill it with expanding foam)!
January 22nd, 2007 at 1:35 pm
Hi All,
Picked mine up last Thursday ………… Got a bit worried on Friday night when the nice little petrol pump showed up after doing 153 miles on what I thought was half a tank!! Spoke briefly to the dealer explained that the gauge could be faulty and not to panic! Also (just being picky I suppose)the mirror adjustment panel does’nt light up not sure it is is supposed too or not………. never mind soon get used to where all the little knobs and switches are (and what they do!!)
Apart from that running like a dream. Really impressed with the response.
Take care
Dave
PS Anyone else driving the 1.3 SXi I would really be interested in MPG
January 22nd, 2007 at 2:47 pm
What’s your MPG?
I’ve got the 1.7 SXi, and I’m getting 40mpg average, with instantaneous consumption reading 60-70 when I’m cruising around 60mph in 5th (it’ll probably be a little better in 6th, but I’ve never remembered to pay attention to it when sleep^h^h^h^h^hcruising in 6th).
I’m sure it could average more than 40 if I didn’t drive it like I’ve never had a 125ps car before ;-)
January 23rd, 2007 at 6:38 pm
hope this is a one off but mine is bakc in now to have new driveshaft fitted to stop the vibration at 60/65, as I said I hope its a one off, but I am asking the dealer to support my claim for some form of compensation. Car only done 600 miles and been in the garge for 10 days out of the first six weeks or so, that does not bode well for the future. Will keep you all posted.
February 14th, 2007 at 8:36 am
Well, the rattle was truly fixed, and everything is great….
Yesterday I got a recall letter through about replacing the Front Lower Control Arm! It’s booked in for Saturday. Hopefully I can just have it bcak to drive after that!!!
There’s a little info on the DSA site here for if you didn’t get a letter:
http://www.driving.org/index.html
It gives the VIN numbers for affected cars
February 14th, 2007 at 8:38 am
DSA/DIA - whatever :-)
February 14th, 2007 at 1:40 pm
Thanks for the link Danny. Checked my VIN but it wasn’t on the list but decided to check with the Vauxhall helpline only to find that my car is affected, might be worth other owners checking the helpline.
By coincidence I had booked my car in for next week regarding what I felt was a problem with the steering I have to keep fighting the steering wheel to keep it straight. Could be that this is the problem!! Haven’t received a recall letter yet!!
Might be worth knowing that if you owners out there who have had a recall letter and cannot get your car in for a while, and are not happy about driving it until it is fixed, contact Vauxhall Careline on 0845 090 2044 if you push them they will give you a reference number after which you can hire a car and get the money back after your Corsa has been dealt with (mention safety and the fact that you may lose all steering)
Take care
Dave
February 14th, 2007 at 2:45 pm
I’m rather shocked that your car is affected, yet outside of the VIN range given. Does this mean many affected owners haven’t notified?! :/
February 14th, 2007 at 3:07 pm
Hi Danny,
When I first checked my VIN I thought ok but to be on the safe side I checked both the number in your link and the Customercare line they did say that my Reg number was included. I would suggest that it would do no harm for other owners to check just for a little piece of mind, if they do then Vauxhall may just send out a blanket mail to all new Corsa owners to cover themselves.
Dave
February 14th, 2007 at 4:38 pm
Dear All,
Please find attached a link to the VOSA site which gives details of the recall. It gives NO VIN start or end numbers.
http://www.vosa.gov.uk/vosa/apps/recalls/searches/search.asp
Kind regards
Dave
February 19th, 2007 at 2:12 pm
Dear All,
Got a recall letter Thursday was fortunate to get the car seen on Friday no problems took around 30 mins to check ……… Still not to sure about the steering. The dealer is checking with Vauxhall to see if they have had any issues with this. Anyone out there having any issues with the steering, or is it just me being a bit heavy handed?
Kind regards
Dave
February 19th, 2007 at 3:34 pm
whats the problme with steering, just got my car back after exactly 1 month at the dealers reparing faulty driveshafts. Was rejecting the car until the offered to give me compensation, then partially retracted the offer. Threatened court, ( and also not to give them back their courtesy car) and they saw the light last week. Got 2 years free servicing, interior comfort aceesories and “in the bumper” colour codoed reverse sensors for the inconvenience. To be honest the dealer acted in good faith and I regrettted having to take it that far, Vauxhall were a differnt matter, they didi not want to know, as were the finance company GMAC, not interested. Anyway car is back now and running great, fingers crossed!!!
February 19th, 2007 at 4:04 pm
Hi Carl,
Just seems to be very heavy around 60. Feels as if I have to really hold the steering wheel to keep the car straight. Might have something to do with the adaptive steering not too sure. I will wait until I hear from the dealer, if I get no joy I will see if I can have a loan car just so I can see if there is a difference.
Dave
February 19th, 2007 at 7:55 pm
My car was only in 30 mins too, so I guess it was fine (which makes me wonder why they couldn’t tell the affected cars!).
I’ve not had any issues with the steering. It’s very light at low speeds (which is awesome around car parks!), and similar (though maybe a little lihgter) at 50+ to my other cars (with normal power steering). I certainly don’t fight with it in any way.
I’m sure they’ve got cars to do test drives in you could take out to see if it’s the same, but it does sound like yours is broken!
February 19th, 2007 at 8:40 pm
In relation to the recall all new corsa are being recalled as a precaution they are checking for poor welds to the front lower control arms if you havent had it checked yet id insist your dealer looks at this as a matter of urgancy i work for a dealer we have done loads of them now and found our first faulty one today so there must only be a few, if you are like many awaiting delivery of your new car to go on the 07 plate make sure you check with your dealer that it has been done before delivery
Havent had any known steering concerns yet.
February 20th, 2007 at 10:36 am
Hi Danny,
I think I have been a little too hasty on the steering isssue like you said the steering is a lot lighter than the Astra Coupe I was driving before. Last night I adjusted the steering rake and pitch and my driving position drove to work this morning and let the car do the work and all is well!!
Please ignore the rants of a demented baboon!!!
Take care
Dave
February 21st, 2007 at 12:30 pm
We ordered a 3dr SXI 1.7 CDTI on 6th Jan and have just been told the car has been delivered already to the dealears WJ kings in welling Kent, this is 2 weeks earlier than expected, so we will be picking it up on march 1st. Lets just hope there are no faults i wiil keep you posted if there is !!!!!!!
February 21st, 2007 at 6:52 pm
Glad to hear there’s no fault, Dave :)
My clutch pedal has started squeaking today, but that’s hardly a tough one to fix!
You’ve made a good choice Steve. Mine’s a 3dr SXI 1.7 CDTI with all the toys (lights/wipers/anti-dazzle-magic-mirror/cruise-control/etc), and it wipes the floor with the £15k Hyundai Coupe I had a few years back. It really does go like stink, and I average around 40mph doing it!
February 27th, 2007 at 11:11 pm
Had new Corsa for 2 weeks before recall notice came. Dropped it in last week, still waiting… but now dealer says replacement parts don’t arrive until 16th March!! Ouch!!
March 3rd, 2007 at 5:06 pm
Hi there, Im getting the new corsa in a couple of weeks and i was just wondering how much the drivers seat adjusts? as im not the tallest person in the world (5ft!!)
Please leave me an email at sami__88@hotmail.co.uk
March 13th, 2007 at 2:40 pm
Had my new corsa for 4wks then recalled due to steering problem, have not been given any date of when new parts arrive. Was given hire car but after 24hrs discovered slow punture, have now been told i have to pay around £70 for new tyre. Cant believe this is happening, you would think that Vauxhall would replace tyre due to the fact that my new car was taken back because of a fault down to Vauxhalls.
March 13th, 2007 at 4:54 pm
You want to push them mate, my problem although not related to the steering problem initially meant my car was with them for exactly 1 month and I had a signum from day 1 at £ 60 per day, in the end due to other problems I also managed to get 2 years free servicing, interior accessories and “fully installed in the bumper” reversing sensors
I really had to push and it got to the stage where the Police were threatening to be called but I kept thinking Vauxhall must have know about my problem and I was not going to let them get awat with ripping off after paying my hard earned money to them for the new car.
March 14th, 2007 at 7:04 am
I didn’t pay for my coutersy car, and had they suggested I’d have to, I’d have told them to just take the Corsa back and give me my deposit back. If they can just give you a faulty car then charge you while they fix it, it’s almost like they’re deliberately profiting by giving people duff cars, and that doesn’t sound like the sort of publicity they want!
March 20th, 2007 at 7:10 pm
I ordered a 1.3 for delivery 1st Mar. Great news, it was delivered at the dealership bang on date. Bad news, it needed the wishbone replacing because of the recall. Just heard from the dealer that they’ve got a number of corsa’s waiting for this replacement with no anticipated delivery date of the part. Dealer has been apologetic with offer of courtesy car.
March 21st, 2007 at 11:01 am
I picked up my Corsa Club 1.4 petrol on Thursday after waiting 2 months for it. There is a rattle vibration noise that happens at 60mph sounds like it is coming from the passenger side air vent/glove box area. It is driving me crazy! Anyone else experienced this?
March 21st, 2007 at 5:22 pm
that rattel/vibration sound like the driveshaft problem I had, it had to have weights fitted. Its a known fault and the car was in for 1 month, apparently I was the first in Europe with the problem !! I odnt think so. Anyway I had a signum off them while they fixed it and compensation in the form of 2 years free servicing and accesories, email me if you want furthe rinformation on how I dealt with my problem. THe vibration should start at around 60 and go after 65 if its the same thing, it does sound like it though.
March 27th, 2007 at 1:43 pm
i have ordered the club 1.2 16v and it is getting delivered may 4th. i was really excited but now i’m quite nervous after hearing all these problems :-(!!! can someone say something good????
April 2nd, 2007 at 10:09 am
Hi Mike,
Apart from the steering recall, mine is running like a dream. No rattles, squeaks or leaks. Still getting around 58mpg (1.3 SXi TDi).
Regards
Dave
April 2nd, 2007 at 9:22 pm
Same here - other than the rattle that was sorted, I prefer it to the new £15k Hyundai Coupe I had :)
I’ve got the 1.7, which averages 40-42mpg. It creeps up when I drive sensibly, but that doesn’t happen all too often!
April 24th, 2007 at 7:07 pm
Had new corsa 1.3cdti now for 5 weeks i also found the steering wanders at motorway speed. I thought it was just me not used to a small car having a vectra previous.I have also had to put half a ltr of oil to top up and only covered 900 miles .will be booking it in to get the steering checked
May 3rd, 2007 at 8:31 pm
1.4 design 3dr
had my corsa for a month now and cant wait to get rid of the thing. so many problems.
this has happened twice now, driving along and the emgine just cuts out, no power in any gears them 10 seconds later all power back - very scary (glad i was not overtaking)
rubber window seals unsticking - passenger seat coming loose - secret tray under passenger seat wont open and squeks loudly - engine squeks when hot - dash board panels unclip when going over speedbumps.
if you are concidering this car then dont get one save a lot of time and money, get an audi its more but worth it. trust me
May 4th, 2007 at 3:19 pm
carl blake Says:
March 21st, 2007 at 5:22 pm
that rattel/vibration sound like the driveshaft problem I had, it had to have weights fitted. Its a known fault and the car was in for 1 month, apparently I was the first in Europe with the problem !! I odnt think so. Anyway I had a signum off them while they fixed it and compensation in the form of 2 years free servicing and accesories, email me if you want furthe rinformation on how I dealt with my problem. THe vibration should start at around 60 and go after 65 if its the same thing, it does sound like it though
Hi Carl,
I have just taken my Corsa 1.2 to back to the Vauxhall dealership as I am experiencing noise & vibration since I bought the car 2 months ago. It does come from the passenger side. It’s unbearable if more people occupy the car. I also have peeling black paint on the instrument pod in the centre. Vauxhall just called back to confirm the driveshaft is unbalanced & say the car is ok to use until parts arrive at the end of May. I was concerned about tyre wear in the interim. They have offered nothing in the way of compensation or apology. Any advice on getting them to improve their attitude would be of great help.
May 4th, 2007 at 9:06 pm
Hi Neil
Sadly I am beginnig to agree with you, my problems are well documented and my car is going in again next week for the second time to find the cause of the creaking/cracking noise coming from the rear passenger side, its so annoying, espceially in view of the fact it has been heralded as such a supermini and won car of the year.
I am only surprised mreo problems have not yet emerged but if it wasnt for this site we would not be able to communicate,
hope it keeps up the good work
May 5th, 2007 at 12:39 pm
I’m thinking about getting a 1.4 Automatic Design. I’m a disabled driver. I’m concerned about the comments on problems keeping the steering straight on the motorway :o(
I’ve also heard complaints about the reflection of the center console on the windscreen. The silver strip that that goes around the top (SXi), it’s piano black on the design. I had a look at the SXi at my local dealer & it is very obvious. The car was actually inside the showroom! Has anyone here found this to be a problem?
I like the car a lot & its within my budget. I think it looks way better than the grand punto, pug 2007 & clio.
May 13th, 2007 at 11:58 am
I had placed comments on my new Corsa’s problems here. I notice now it has been removed! Why was this?
So much for keep up the good work!
May 14th, 2007 at 2:57 pm
Is my post ever going to be approved!!!!?????????????????
May 15th, 2007 at 5:48 pm
i am now trying to get the car replaced for another identical model, have written to vauxhall h/o and seller garage, there h/o says speak to seller and vise-versa, dreadfull customer service, dont they know i dont care just fix all 8 problems by replacing it. new major problemo is when i start it in the morning it starts then cuts completely, happens about 3 times then stays awake untill it cuts in mid journey.
am going to get a 1.4a next time, dont know what its like???
hello james,
i have the design 1.4, the dash reflection is only an issue when i have to use the sunblinds (so when sun is dead ahead)
Vauxhalls new approach is to ignor me, i went in with the car, for a booked apointment and the B****** took the day of.
they put the phone down on me and dont reply to letters and emails.
June 25th, 2007 at 7:31 pm
vauxhall has had my car for 10 days, picked it up today seems ok apart from a new rattle.
they say they replaced the computer, new water pump, new cam belt, rubber window seals, under seat tray, passenger seat and all new dash board panles.
I think what they mean is that they put my number plate on a new one :-)
good luck
June 26th, 2007 at 9:22 am
Mine is creaking as well now under the seat, have traced it to the unders seat tray, also both front electric windows are creaking when they go up.
In addition the drivers seat creaks going round left hand corners as your weight shifts towards the right.
I have some concerns about the trip computer not working corectly but not enough yet to have it investigated, I am waiting for the dealer to get back to me !!
In fairness to them they have been very good at responding to problems and fixing things so lets hope they keep it up.
June 26th, 2007 at 9:22 am
Mine is creaking as well now under the seat, have traced it to the unders seat tray, also both front electric windows are creaking when they go up.
In addition the drivers seat creaks going round left hand corners as your weight shifts towards the right.
I have some concerns about the trip computer not working corectly but not enough yet to have it investigated, I am waiting for the dealer to get back to me !!
In fairness to them they have been very good at responding to problems and fixing things so lets hope they keep it up.
June 27th, 2007 at 7:21 pm
If anyone is having problems with the car contact the consumer advise helpline on 08454040506.
I have already contacted them, they have reported all the 10faults I have had with the car to trading standards and they have told me what letters (they actually tell you what to write) to write to the garage and finance company if applicable!!!! They are then legally abliged to reply - if they don’t you can take them to court.
If you have genuine problems with the car, the more people that report it to this number, the more trading standards will do.
August 3rd, 2007 at 1:26 am
Hi All
I’ve had my 1.2 3 dr design for just over a month now and still running it in. The last couple of days i’ve had a rattle thats coming from the very front of the dash,near the windscreen,it’s there constantly when i go over rougher roads(which is most of the roads where i live),and also when i go over a speed bump or pothole it seems to trigger it off,sounds like a marble in a plastic cup,any ideas as to what it is,its driving me nuts?? could it be a clip thats come loose and will the dealer fix it under warranty? bit worried about them taking the dash off and ending up with more noises,i really cannot stand rattles in a new car.
September 5th, 2007 at 12:21 pm
My wife and I looked at one todya as she had had an 1.2si for four years and has been great.I am suprised to think that you have had all these problems with them…………what to do?
Saw a great looking 1.2 at what seemed to be the right money,,,,,,,,,,,,only if the car is fine then it will be the right money I suppose.
September 9th, 2007 at 8:47 pm
We collected 1.7CDTi SXi on July5th & have had no end of problems since intermittent lack of power,intermittent missing,steering goes tight from about 30mph on straight roads you do not feel in control,whining noise like water pump,baffle noise when changing gear.Have done about 300 miles back & forth to dealers who have just done about 4/5 updates.Car just been to Vauxhall centre of exellence area district manager rang us to say all the things we say they agree with but the car is fault free & is running as it should be,so he is telling us that all 1.7CDTi SXi are like ours so i have asked him to prove that by getting one for us to try nearly a week gone by & he has not been able to source one yet in the south-west.We are at our wits end Vauxhall & Dealer just passing buck back & forth with us getting no where,can anyone help please?Are they right do all 1,7CDTi SXi have the same problems?
September 10th, 2007 at 5:12 pm
Walter - could you email me (mail at dantup.me.uk) about the power loss you’re having? I’m having issues too (also a 1.7tdci) and the garage keep failing to find the problem. It happens when I accelerate intermittently and feels like the clutch slipping - the car will begin to slow down then suddenly pick up and jerk away. It’s possible we’re having the same problem.
September 13th, 2007 at 10:57 am
Dear All,
Sorry to hear about your problems, I have to say that The only issue with mine is the windows creak a little after you put them back up. I had a service done on the car and mentioned this and the service department will be replacing some parts in the automatic window mechanism. Apart from that still running like a dream, no power problems the steering issue appears to have disappeared.
All the best
Dave
September 16th, 2007 at 7:20 pm
had the same problems with the windows, after they diagnosed it they replaced the mechanisms only to make the problem worse by putting in the wrong ones!
Eventually the did replace with the correct ones and the original problem did go away but another one started. Anyone who has seen my earl posts would know the problems I have had with this car and I just could not stand the though of another trip to the dealers, even though the grease they left on the windows after the repair and the damage to the door handle trims trying to get at the windows should have pushed tme to go back.
In the end I decided the best thing was to get rid and I have part exchanged it for a new Nissan Qashqai, dont know if I am doing the right thing and it could all be because I got one of the very ealry cars but its all got too much.
Watch out of you have a 2 seater as well because the mechanism to lock it and slide it forward does not last forever……. in my case seven months
I dont mean to sound negative and your car may well live up to its “car of the year” reputation, I really hope it does and I hope I was just an unlucky one.
September 18th, 2007 at 1:36 pm
hey everyone, just thought i would put a positive comment on here as there aren’t many! i picked my 1.2 club up on may 4th and i am still made up with it. have had no problems at all with it. had it roughly 4 months now and have done 4000 miles. i love it. very good looking car. have to admit for the first few days it felt strange (im used to driving a rover) but once i was used to it i was more than happy. would definately recommend it however sounds like im one of the lucky ones.
September 21st, 2007 at 5:04 pm
i manage to get about 40 mpg too, ive just got mine back from the garage, the clutch decided to go after 9,000 mile :S:S, now that ive got it back, it makes a queer noise when i start the engine so its booked back in the garage on wednesday
October 4th, 2007 at 8:22 pm
Had a 1.3 CDTI for two weks and it has failed to start 6 times, The starter will not turn this happened when the garage handed the car over, the AA puts it down to a faulty ignition switch but the dealer has so far not found any fault with ithe car. I took it there yesterday and when I went to get the car I was told they still couldn’t find a fault, but lucky enough the car would not start when I tried it.I have now left it at the dealers to try and fix.
October 10th, 2007 at 9:00 pm
We have only managed 35mpg combined on average since we bought the Corsa. 1.2 16v design. Lovely car but very poor fuel consumption.its been back to the garage twice for diagnostic checks. computer says no!! garage now have it to test the fuel consumption themselves. What is the average mpg achieved by you guys.
October 11th, 2007 at 6:37 pm
Hi. i have a 52 corsa and the steering rattles over bumpy ground. vauxhall says 500 pounds to get fixed. steering rack needs replacing or something
could this be true
where they recalled and mine was missed
October 12th, 2007 at 2:42 pm
we have had our 1.7cdti for 7 months now and i have noticed that you get a blank spot as you put your foot down , then it takes off like a scalded cat. I have not spoken to vauxhall about it maybe i should, but i just put it down to to turbo lag. I must say the car is not ideal for town driving because the turbo comes in from 2100 RPM. we also have a zafira 2.0l diesel and that uses considerably less fuel than the 1.7 cdti corsa. Its a really fast car from 50 to 90 many cars 4 times its price will stuggle to keep up when its in full flow, so on the whole its great for the open roads but a bit juicy for round town.
October 15th, 2007 at 8:41 am
Dear All,
Picked a second Corsa up on Saturday (Missus wanted 1!!)
Can I just say that the new car (1.3 CDi Club Mar07)is running like a dream no squeaks rattles nothing.
Picks up really well.
I am well pleased
Sorry to hear that some of you are not having a good time with your motors especially your dealers.
I got both cars from Pomphrey’s in Sittingbourne and have had nothing but great service from them (in fact I had had 3 cars from them now)and I would recommend them highly.
Take care
Dave
November 5th, 2007 at 9:14 pm
I have just bought a new 57 plate 1.3 vauxhaul corsa design (90 break-horse-power engine). I have now put about 700 miles on the clock, with mostly motorway driving between 65-75 mph with no quick accelerations, etc. So far the combined and actual mpg is about 50 mpg or 500 miles per tank. I know that manuafactuers figures are overly optimistic for mpg, but I would expect as per the stated figures to be obtaining at least 60-65mpg for the driving I am doing, yet falling far short of this. Do new car engines need to be run in before mpg increases and improves? If so, how long (miles) does it take to run in before mpg improves?
November 6th, 2007 at 11:28 am
Had my 1.3 cdti design at the garage yesterday under a recall on faulty starter, gave them a list of problems i have -Steering wander - creeking from electric window -rattle from behind passenger seat - beeping noise from rev counter - engine noisey and rough Garage Reply tracking could be out but not covered under warranty - lubricated window but could find no fault - could not find rattle but lubricated seat - engine oil level low they say it uses a pint of oil every 1000 miles - new electronic control panel to be fitted for rev counter problem. The car has now done 4000 miles Cant wait to get rid of the damm thing this is one of the worst cars i have ever owned
November 6th, 2007 at 3:39 pm
I have had my Corsa 1.4 Club since March and put 12,000 miles on it. The petrol consumption is shocking. I get 320 miles to a full tank. Mainly motorway driving at 60/70mph. The car makes a crunching rattling metallic sound from the rear passenger side every time I go over a bump or down a rough road. Returning it to Pentagon was pointless. I hate it will never buy another one.
November 6th, 2007 at 3:49 pm
I think i spoke to soon ! our 1.7 has just done 4000 mls and needs a new power steering pump, I think its because we had the larger alloys fitted and they should upgrade the power steering pump at the factory when this is done , but it looks like they havent. going in garage on 12/11/07.
November 8th, 2007 at 9:05 am
Sad to see all the comments but I have had all those problems myself. Finally got rid of the car last month, such a shame as it wa supposed to be car of the year, on paper maybe but not in reality.
November 21st, 2007 at 2:50 pm
Hi,
I have had my 1.3 Cdti Design since 15th October. My MPG is on average 48mpg, with 400 / 450 miles (at a push!!) to a tank. 95% of my driving is all motorway, sitting at a speed of 65-70mph. I have now done over 2500 and this does not seem to be getting any better?! Has anyone else had problems with poor mpg? I have changed my driving technique being conscious of slowing down, braking etc and it has still not got any better. I am very disappointed with this as the whole reason I bought a new car as I do a 80mile round trip down the motorway to work and my 1.1 petrol was just not up to it!!
Any advice??
Thanks
December 15th, 2007 at 11:17 am
Our 1.7 corsa has now covered 4700 miles since march 1st and the car has been in the garage 3 times. 1st time in july after a loud noise from the offside front wheel,which no fault was found at the garage. 2nd time was in oct because the steering is really stiff intermitantly when trying to park so they fitted a new steering colomn which still hasnt fixed the problem. now the car has been in for 11 days,it has had new engine management and an engineer come to the garage to look at the car from vauxhall production line because the dealers are unable to fix it. they first thought it was a software problem but he has told them to fit a new steering rack, they are still waiting for the parts to be delivered. if that doesnt work then we can only expect to recieve a replacement new car because all avenues have been exhausted.
December 22nd, 2007 at 3:47 pm
I have a 07 plate 1.0 Corsa Life, which has been great up until now. It is currently in the garage (and will be until after the New Year) as the fans need a new motor. So much hassle for such a small problem - the motor should have arrived in the garage on the 13th December, but apparently there is a backlog of 74(!!) orders waiting. I can only assume this is a common problem. Unfortunately, due to the icy weather it is totally undriveable, I can’t keep the windscreen clear long enough to get anywhere! Fortunately, Vauxhall have provided a courtesy car (1.4 SXi) until I get mines back. I am just hoping that I get my car back in one piece, as several friends have had serious problemswith other garages (mechanics taking cars out joyriding and causing serious damage etc). Other than this, I’ve found it a great car to drive, looks good, petrol lasts ages in it and its nice and smooth to drive.
January 4th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
I have an 07 plate 1.7 cdti Design which I have had since May 2007. I have experienced no mechanical problem at all and have covered 7600 miles. The one thing that has bugged me was the lack of power in 1st and 2nd gear below 2000rpm (which was a nightmare at junctions) and an occasional stutter in 2nd. I became increasingly fed up with these probs so I took it back to my dealer just before Christmas after I read that there were softwear up dates available. well! what a revelation - its like a new car, pulls strongley in 1st and 2nd, the stutter has gone and the power is spread more evenly through all gears and has now become the car I wanted in the first place. The garage told me that they have had quite a number of new Astra’s in that have been fitted with the new 1.7 diesel for the same softwear update, Quite happy at the moment.
January 7th, 2008 at 7:54 am
Hi all,
Just a response to Sian’s mail (21st Nov 07). I have been running the 1.3 CDi Club since Oct last Year I too do mainly motorway driving (110 miles round trip between 60 - 70)and am getting around 600 miles on a full tank. I know that there is an ECO tyre pressure setting (see hand book) Mine are set at Front = 39 PSI Rear = 36 PSI also check the oil this does need to be regularly topped up (might help)I did notice over the Xmas and New Year period when the motorways were quite clear (averaging around 80 mph) that as expected the MPG did drop quite a bit the trip computer was showing around 500 on a full tank.
Take care
Dave
January 22nd, 2008 at 8:00 pm
hi, ive had my 1.7 cdti for nearly a year. no end of problems.. 1st the lack of power in 1st/2nd.. fixed at garage due to exhaust temp being too low.. then had a new air mass filter fitted and now its in again as it needs a new fuel pump and fuel rail ( what ever that is )my car is constantly having irrattic ideling problems.. any1 with same problems??????
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:52 am
Our corsa has now been in the garage since the 4th December due to problems with the power steering as mentioned to you gang previously. the garage tried to return the car to us before the xmas period saying that we have done everything we can and its now down to vauxhall who will look into it when they return to work after the break.well now we are being told that due the weight of the 1.7 engine and the fact we have 17inch alloys on the car that this is causing the steering not to work when parking. They have now told us that the car works fine with 16inch alloys,but we are not happy with this because vauxhall are still selling these cars with 17 inch alloys. we have formerly rejected the car in writing and have had a courtesy car for nearly 8 weeks now.
February 5th, 2008 at 1:44 am
Hi all
I ordered my car in mid december, a 1.7 SRI with all the usual options u wud have. Delivery date is around march time, has anyone else ordered their car at a similiar time and expecting to receieve around march time?
Thx Jay
February 7th, 2008 at 9:27 am
Have you been able to test drive a 1.7SRI?.we have been told there are no 1.7 corsas available at the moment and are trying to sort out a deal as to weather we take a full refund or go for the 1.3 cdti with some compensation
February 8th, 2008 at 2:44 am
hi steve
Not yet, only checked it thru the brochure and saw an example car but didnt get to test drive it. Think im gonna ring them and see what they say about the 1.7 engine at the moment.
Jay
February 9th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
We got a fone call yesterday confirming that our 1.7 SRI is on schedule and shud be delivered early :). Fingers crossed.
February 20th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
I’m getting my first car delivered in 3 weeks (hopefully) and was really looking forward to it. After reading these pages I’m dreading it coming. Fingers crossed it won’t have any problems as after reading the comments, Vauxhall are a pain to deal with.
Anyhow, it’s a 1.3 CDTi (90PS) with a few added toys and as it’s my first car i’m very excited (i’m sure you lot can all remember that feeling).
Fingers crossed, lol.
P.s. Danny Tuppeny’s comments was a like a nice little story, glad it all ended well.
February 21st, 2008 at 9:59 am
Our Problem is not sorted even though Vauxhall have admitted the fault.Ive had heated arguments on the phone and at the dealers with the GM vauxhall rep when he calls me he wont give his number out.we have been told you can have your full money back by customer care,then told by the rep it would be less £2000 for usage.Also told we can have a new car but not with 17inch alloys.we have now asked for a Corsa SRI 1.6 (17in) because any other corsa will be a lesser product than we originally had.
February 24th, 2008 at 12:50 am
Yup yup, got the word a few days ago that the car will be delayed till the 14th now instead of the initial 5th delivery date. No reason given but he did say it usually gets delivered before then. Lets just hope i get my car before then…
February 24th, 2008 at 10:07 pm
got a corsa d 1.2 design , there is a brake problem with these cars that vauxhall are struggling to find a solution to.the brakes grind and squeel when pulling up,the dealer has already changed the discs and pads but its just as bad. If you want to read more about mine and numerous other peoples problems with this car ,have a look on the motor trader website under corsa brake problems and see how we are being treated both by the dealers and vauxhall motors
This car cost me nearly nine grand six months ago the problem has been from day one and nothig positive has been done about it
February 25th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
sorry to hear that
I had exactly the same problem but given the numberous other problems I had with my Corsa I didnt even bother reporting it.
I got fed up with them referring with faults with the car as “charecteristics”
Sorry to be negative, there are probably many good cars out there, the trouble for me was mine was not one of them.
February 27th, 2008 at 5:09 pm
I work at a company were they bought 5 of these cars for the employees. I am one of them who got one, and at first I thought this is a nice car nice interior. But driving the car gave me disappointment, steers really weird. And after a month all cars were called back to the dealer, problem with the front suspension and it had to be replaced. But after that the problems really started, after a rain my trunk were the spare tire is files up with water up 3 inch. Drilled 3 holes in it to get rid of the water. There air co is fungus infested already after 2 months and this happened with 3 cars. Air co was chemically cleaned but problem came back within 2 months. Now I cant drive the car anymore because this fungus problem gives me serious health problems. My opinion about the car, its absolutely rubbish. Don’t buy this!!
March 6th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
Hi Dave, did you transfer the personalised plate from your Astra Coupe to your new Corsa?
March 7th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
Hi Silly Saracen,
Yes I did ………… You have got me here as I cannot recall mentioning this on the blog……
Dave
March 7th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Dave,
Sorry for the secrecy, I was just making sure that I had the right Dave Rowley.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
Silly Saracen,
Your blog name is not making this easy!!!
March 7th, 2008 at 2:18 pm
Dave,
Please email me at sillysaracen@yahoo.co.uk and I’ll explain.
April 7th, 2008 at 8:10 pm
anyone having problems with cranking windows and rattle inside the door panel?
or a cranking back arch, my 1.2 sxi has had problem after problem. planning on throwing it back at vauxhall…let me know what you think!
drop me a mail on angusbudden@hotmail.com
May 1st, 2008 at 10:47 pm
hey there all..
just been sitting looking threw al of the comments.. i have to say i have a corsa d.. 1.2 club speacial ed…. i have it now a year next month… i have to say the onyl problem i have had with the car isthat my girl freinds god mother.. crashed into it on me haahhhaha but wa can yu do lol.. i have the car back now about 5 months .. anits going like a dream.. am really glad i picked this car… an its living up to its standards of car of the year ..an i am just in the middle of puttina body kit an alloys onto it….. i;ve heard alot of ppl syaing they have had this probloem an dat problem.. but there alot dat hasent had a problem at all
May 10th, 2008 at 8:10 am
Finally after 6 months we have picked up a new corsa 1.6 SRI.luckily during this time we had a courtesy car or it would of been hell,but vauxhall have really dragged their feet over exchanging our faulty corsa 1.7sxi which they were unable to repair under warranty.we have had to pay £1000 extra because the new car cost £15200 and the old one was £12750.not bad considering we have not suffered 1 penny of depreciation on the old car asswell.so i thank vauxhall uk for that.
July 15th, 2008 at 3:12 pm
Hi all. We have just got a 1.3cdti 5 door breeze plus and i have to say its a lovely little motor. We had an Astra 1.8 convertible before this and the corsa seems much more roomier.
Only thing i dislike is the fact that no mater how high you pump the seat up, you cant see the bonnet. guess its something you get used to.
July 29th, 2008 at 11:28 am
blimey sounds like the new corsa’s have a lot of problems, ive been looking at a number of new small cars but this number of faults is crazy, think ill give it a miss.
August 4th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
How many studs do the wheels have on the corsa 57 cdti club? I want to order some alloys, for when my car gets delivered on Friday
August 11th, 2008 at 4:49 pm
We picked up our brand new Corsa on Saturday and almost immediately I thought the steering felt strange, and I had to keep adjusting the steering to keep the car going in a straight line. I went back to the dealer today and booked the car in for them to look at. Their initial reaction was that they had never come across this problem before but it sounds very much like the same problem experienced and described on here by early owners of the current model. Is it likely to be the same problem, and what is the cure? Would appreciate some help to avoid the scratching of the head and the ‘Can’t find a problem with your car, Sir’ approach.
August 12th, 2008 at 9:44 am
I think they are all like that because they have short wheel base,small steering wheel with very precise power steering and rack. we are on our second Corsa D and they have both been the same, its something ihave got used to