Vauxhall unveils new Corsa MHEV
Deliveries for the mild-hybrid will start from March
Vauxhall has recently unveiled the new Corsa MHEV, a mild-hybrid supermini. It is set to cost £22,890.
At its heart is a specially developed turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. This engine is available in two versions: one offering 99bhp and 205Nm of torque, and the other providing a more robust 134bhp and 230Nm of torque.
Vauxhall says the 99bhp version records an impressive fuel economy of 62.8mpg and CO2 emissions of 102g/km.
A significant feature of the Corsa MHEV is its six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, coupled with an integrated electric motor. This motor contributes an additional 28bhp and 55Nm of torque.
The car's 48-volt battery, which powers the electric motor, is self-charging through regenerative braking, allowing the car to operate on electric power alone for short distances.
The base Design trim, available only with the 99bhp engine, features 16-inch alloy wheels, a new 10-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED headlights, and numerous driver assistance systems.
For a more sporty aesthetic, the GS specification offers larger 17-inch diamond cut wheels, a contrasting black roof, and enhanced parking features. It's available for both the 99bhp and the 134bhp models.
The range is topped by the Ultimate trim, exclusive to the 134bhp variant. It boasts advanced features like IntelliLux adaptive LED Matrix headlights, heated steering wheel, and front seats, and enhanced automatic emergency braking.
Deliveries for the new Corsa MHEV are expected to start in March 2024.
To support its expanding range of EV's, Vauxhall initiated the 'Electric Streets of Britain' programme last year, in abid to combat the shortage of on-street electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in the UK.
The move was in response to Vauxhall's findings that over 70 per cent of UK councils lacked a formal strategy for residential on-street charging, particularly affecting residents without access to private driveways.
The programme aims to assist councils by providing access to funding and expertise, facilitating the installation of on-street chargers in high-demand areas. To do this, the firm is collaborating with leading charging operators to devise affordable and easy-to-install charging solutions.
This initiative aligns with Vauxhall's commitment to electrify its entire model lineup by 2024 and move to sell only electric vehicles by 2028. Additionally, Vauxhall is advocating for government support to expedite the on-street charging network expansion, urging for streamlined processes for councils to install chargers.