VAUXHALL says the all-new Corsa, which goes on sale in the autumn, will set new standards in the small car market, writes David Duffy.

With the longest wheelbase in its class at 98 inches, Vauxhall says the car will offers more interior space and outstanding ride and handling.

The car will be powered by a range of new engines, including a 125 horsepower 1.8i 16v and the latest 1.7 DTi, along with a frugal 1.0-litre three cylinder unit. The Corsa has a fully-galvanised body with a 12-year anti-perforation warranty,

Vauxhall's quick-shift 'Easytronic' automated transmission makes its debut, combining advantages of a five-speed manual gearbox with an automatic transmission.

Internally the new fascia design includes an advanced 'infotainment' system with options including integrated four-CD changer, telephone and navigation system.

Other standard safety features include front and side airbags for driver and front passenger, active head restraints on the front seats, and Vauxhall's patented pedal release which reduces the risk of feet and leg injury in the event of a front impact.

The current Corsa, manufactured on five continents and sold in 80 countries, is one of Vauxhall's most successful cars.

About six million have been built since production began in 1993.

Nick Reilly, Vauxhall's chairman and managing director, said: "The new Corsa has what it takes to be another winner. It is a prime example of our strategy of making high technology available in smaller cars, and so more accessible to a wider spread of owners."

* Vauxhall's range of diesel engines has won the company top honours in an important Environmental Transport Association survey of more than 400 car models ranked for their 'green' credentials.

The DTi 2.0 litre turbo diesel Vectra estate car took the ETA's green apple environmental award in the large family car category, spearheading four other runner-up awards for Vauxhall:

* Corsa 1.5 TD in the supermini category

* Astra 1.7 TD in the small family car category

* Zafira 2.0 Di in the MPV category and

* Omega 2.0 DTi in the executive/luxury category.

The ETA awards, presented in association with The Green Organisation, marked the launch of the association's Car Buyer's Guide, which ranks models according to their 'greenness' by taking into account environmental aspects like fuel consumption, exhaust emissions and noise.

Story date: Wednesday 12 April

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