Despite earlier reports that the car spotted in the pictures above is a refreshed Corsa, it seems that the vehicle is a mule for the fifth generation of the best-selling Opel – which first came to South Africa in the mid-nineties.
Seen here undergoing testing in Germany, it is believed that the new model will make its international debut in October this year at the Paris Motor Show. The test mule shares much of the current Corsa’s exterior, including door panels and rear end – while the front is clearly more modern, despite the camouflage that wraps the bonnet, A-pillars, front fenders and bumper.
The new Corsa’s nose is a lot sleeker than the outgoing model, with elongated headlamps and a wider, split airdam. There’s no word on overall dimensions yet, but it seems that the new model won’t deviate much from what’s already on offer.
The interior features more clues as to what the upcoming Corsa will bring to the table, such as the glossy trim, soft-touch surfaces, and an updated infotainment system (but no sizeable colour screen). The new instrument panel also boasts digital fuel and temperature gauges.
According to AutoExpress, Vauxhall designer Mark Adams claimed the new Corsa would take “the technology, appearance and powertrain to a new level,” thereby reaffirming the General Motors subsidiary’s place as a B-segment contender.
The new Corsa has also been spotted undergoing testing at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, and with rumours that a new generation of turbocharged engines could be introduced later this year as well, the upcoming model promises to be a the most dymanic yet and most-fuel efficient version to date.