Opel will use the Astra GTC as an inspiration for the styling of its next-generation Corsa while ushering in lightweight construction and a host of new engines.
Initial reports have emerged stating that the Corsa will gain a more rakish and sporty appearance by adopting such Astra GTC styling cues as a coupe-like profile with sculpted flanks and a more aggressive front-end treatment.
The new Corsa, which is internally named “Corsa E”, will be underpinned by a version of General Motors’ Gamma II platform that underpins the likes of the Chevrolet Sonic and the Opel Mokka crossover. It will accommodate a MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension set-up while the steering will be of the eletro-mechanical variety.
Despite the radical restyle, it’s thought that the Corsa’s overall dimensions will remain largely unchanged, but a host of weight saving measures will see entry-level models dip beneath the 1 000 kg mark.
The new Corsa will also usher in a series of new powerplants that fall under Opel’s new Small Gasoline Engine (SGE) banner ranging from a turbocharged three-cylinder engine displacing 1,0-litres to a 1,4-litre unit, all of which will be mated with a six-speed manual gearbox.
An all-new 1,6-litre diesel unit, which will form part of Opel’s upcoming line of Mid-Size Diesel range, is also under development and will reportedly provide the sort of power outputs and refinement to overshadow equivalent offerings from the likes of Ford and Volkswagen. All of the engines will feature start/stop technology.
