2025 Vauxhall Corsa Review: Britain’s Favourite Supermini Evolves

For decades, the Vauxhall Corsa has been a household name in the UK and across Europe, regularly topping sales charts thanks to its small footprint, low running costs, and approachable pricing. The all-new 2025 Corsa continues this legacy, updated inside and out to remain relevant in a rapidly electrifying market.

Built on the Stellantis CMP/eCMP platform, it now comes in three drivetrains: petrol, 48V mild hybrid, and Corsa Electric. The latter benefits from a larger 54 kWh battery (up from 50 kWh) and improved efficiency, extending real-world range while improving charging speeds. Styling is sharper, adopting Vauxhall’s “Vizor” front fascia seen across its SUV lineup. Inside, more premium trim options and a new digital cockpit elevate the cabin.

The 2025 Corsa aims to keep its broad market appeal by offering something for every buyer, from cost-conscious first car owners to eco-focused commuters ready to adopt electric.

What They’re Saying

The Good

1. “The Corsa remains one of the UK’s most accessible yet high-tech hatchbacks.” — AutoExpress

2. “Corsa Electric is more refined and efficient than its predecessor.” — TopGear

3. “Excellent to park and drive in city environments.” — Carwow

4. “Striking Vizor styling makes the 2025 Corsa look far more modern.” — Autocar

5. “Wide powertrain choice gives buyers flexibility competitors lack.” — CarBuyer

The Bad

1. “Rear seat space remains tight compared to rivals like the Clio.” — Autocar

2. “Base models feel underpowered on the motorway.” — WhatCar?

3. “Corsa Electric still lags Kia and MG rivals in range per pound.” — AutoTrader UK

4. “Cabin materials in cheaper trims feel plasticky.” — Carwow

5. “Mild hybrid tech improves efficiency only slightly in real world.” — AutoExpress

Key Specifications Overview

• Powertrains: Petrol, 48V Mild Hybrid, and Electric (Corsa Electric)

• Power Output: 100–136 hp (ICE/MHEV) / 156 hp (Electric)

• Torque: Up to 260 Nm (Electric)

• Battery (Electric): 54 kWh usable

• Range (Electric WLTP): ~402 km

• Charging: 100 kW DC (20–80% in 25 min), 11 kW AC standard

• 0–100 km/h: ~8.2s (Electric) / 10.2s (Petrol)

• Weight: From 1,090 kg (ICE) to 1,530 kg (Electric)

• Boot Capacity: ~260 L

• Price: From £19,500 (Petrol) / ~£27,500 (Corsa Electric)

Key Specifications Table

Key Geographical Variations Table

Price Range Table

Performance and Driving Experience Overview

The 2025 Corsa drives with trademark supermini agility, excelling in tight city streets and parking. Steering is light, and visibility improved by slimmer A-pillars. Petrol/mild hybrid models are competent for daily use but can feel strained on long motorway journeys. The Corsa Electric feels the most mature, offering brisker acceleration, smoother refinement, and silent cruising — though not sporty. Ride quality strikes a good balance between comfort and firmness.

Interior and Technology

The cabin has seen meaningful upgrades. Higher trims get a 10-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration, a 7-inch driver display, and OTA update capability. Practical touches include wireless charging and configurable storage. Despite a stylish dashboard design, rear passenger space is limited. Quality is much better in GS and Ultimate trims, while the base version feels inexpensive.

Exterior Design and Styling

The adoption of Vauxhall’s signature “Vizor” front end modernises the Corsa’s look, bringing it in line with the Astra and Mokka. Slim LED headlights, a low stance, and sharp creases give the car a bold, sporty appearance. Alloy wheel sizes run up to 17 inches, enhancing presence.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Corsa comes with lane-keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and emergency braking standard. Higher trims or packages add adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and 360° camera systems.

Battery and Range Considerations (Electric only)

The Corsa Electric uses a 54 kWh battery for up to 402 km WLTP range. Charging is versatile with 11 kW AC onboard and 100 kW DC fast charging, achieving 20–80% in just under 25 minutes. Real-world range is more like 340 km in mixed driving.

At a Glance Table

Pros and Cons Overview

The 2025 Vauxhall Corsa retains its role as the UK’s most accessible everyday car, strengthened by new tech, improved efficiency, and stylish looks. The Electric variant makes substantial gains but faces fierce competition on price versus MG4 and Renault 5. Rear-seat practicality is still a weakness, though city-friendly handling and affordability make it a safe bet for many.

Pros and Cons Table

Overall Verdict

The 2025 Vauxhall Corsa is not revolutionary but it evolves meaningfully where it matters. Affordable, stylish, and available in multiple drivetrains, it remains one of the most versatile superminis on the market. The Electric variant is the most appealing for refinement and tech, though value-focused EV buyers may look at Chinese or Renault competitors. Still, for loyal Corsa buyers and first-car shoppers, it’s a dependable and stylish choice.

Sources

• AutoExpress (First Drive Review, July 2025)

• TopGear UK (Electric Corsa Comparison, June 2025)

• Autocar UK (First Look, April 2025)

• Carwow (Video Review, May 2025)

• WhatCar? (Early Road Test, July 2025)

• AutoTrader UK (Market Analysis, July 2025)

• CarBuyer (Corsa EV Launch Piece, June 2025)