Vauxhall Corsa Electric Review: Enhanced Range for Supermini EV
The Vauxhall Corsa Electric has received a recent update, giving it a sharper look and a longer range, making it one of the first electric superminis to hit the market. Despite being around since 2019, the Corsa Electric continues to be a stylish and energy-efficient option for drivers.
The Corsa Electric may not be the newest electric vehicle in town, but it still holds its own against newer, flashy EV models. With good energy efficiency and a respectable battery range of around 200 miles in real-world conditions, the Corsa Electric remains a compelling choice. Thanks to a bold styling update in 2023, the Corsa Electric still looks sleek and is easy to drive, with a fuss-free interior layout and a smooth ride.
The Corsa Electric is best suited as an affordable, no-frills electric runaround, particularly the cheaper, shorter-range models like the limited-edition Yes model, which is one of the most cost-effective EVs available. However, the higher-priced versions may face stiff competition from cars that offer more space, range, and wow factor for the money.
In a week-long test driving the Corsa Electric, we found it to be a practical choice for daily commuting, handling both urban and country roads with ease. It offers a decent balance of performance, range, and features that make it a reliable option for electric vehicle buyers.
The 2023 Vauxhall Corsa Electric has seen significant improvements, including an upgraded electric motor and battery to provide more power and range. With a new 115 kW motor and 51 kWh battery available for the top two trim levels, the Corsa Electric now boasts a maximum official range of 248 miles, up from the previous 221 miles with a 100 kWh motor and 50 kWh battery across all trim levels. The Corsa Electric offers a maximum charging rate of 100 kW, making it a competitive choice in the EV market.
The interior of the Corsa Electric is described as ‘solid’ and ‘sensible’, prioritising durability and usability with sturdy materials and a straightforward layout. While lacking in the visual and tactile appeal of some competitors, the Corsa Electric offers ample headroom and legroom in the front, with average space in the back. The boot space, however, falls slightly below the average for its class, with a 267-litre capacity to the load cover.
All Corsa Electric models come equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen display that is user-friendly and placed prominently on the dashboard. The graphics are clear and logical, though not as flashy as some newer EV models. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker sound system as standard features ensures a seamless tech experience for drivers.
When it comes to pricing and running costs, the Corsa Electric offers good value for money, especially in the more affordable models. The limited-edition Yes model, priced at £26,895, stands out as one of the most budget-friendly electric cars on the market. Running costs are kept low thanks to the impressive energy efficiency of the Corsa Electric, with an official miles per kWh ranging from 3.8 to 4.3.
Overall, the Vauxhall Corsa Electric presents itself as a reliable and practical electric vehicle with improved range and performance. While some versions may come with a higher price tag, the Corsa Electric remains a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and efficient electric runaround in the supermini segment.