Vauxhall Corsa gets new mild-hybrid tech for improved fuel economy

• 48-volt mild hybrid set-up
• Around 20% lower fuel consumption
• Starts from under £23k

The Vauxhall Corsa was one of the UK’s best-selling cars last year, offering a finely-tuned balance of affordability, efficiency and driving enjoyment. The range is set to expand in 2024 with the introduction of a mild-hybrid model, promising better fuel efficiency compared to an equivalent petrol-powered Corsa. Buyers now have a choice between the entry-level petrol Corsas, two fully-electric models and the new mild-hybrid.

What’s different about the Vauxhall Corsa Hybrid?

Unlike regular hybrid vehicles or plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), mild-hybrids (MHEVs) use a very small battery and electric motor to provide assistance to the more powerful petrol engine during certain driving scenarios. The Corsa Hybrid is equipped with a 0.43kWh battery that powers a 28bhp electric motor, integrated into the gearbox, providing an extra nudge of power when required. By using such a small battery, Vauxhall has been able to squeeze it in under the passenger seat, meaning boot space hasn’t been compromised.

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Like other mild-hybrid models from parent-brand Stellantis, such as the Jeep Avenger e-Hybrid, the Corsa Hybrid can drive short distances using just electric power, the petrol engine kicking in above 18mph or when the driver wants to accelerate hard. There’s no need to plug in the Corsa Hybrid as it recharges its battery during braking and coasting.

The Corsa Hybrid’s electric motor works alongside a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, available in either 99bhp or 134bhp states of tune. There’s only one choice of gearbox – a new six-speed dual-clutch automatic, different from the eight-speed gearbox fitted to other Corsas.

Vauxhall is keen to highlight the efficiency gains that the new mild-hybrid system brings; when compared to the regular petrol-powered automatic Corsa, the hybrid model consumes roughly 20% less fuel, with economy figures of over 60mpg possible.

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The Corsa Hybrid is available in three trim levels, starting with the entry-level Design model, only available with the less powerful 99bhp engine. Even this basic model is equipped with plenty of kit, including 16-inch wheels, LED headlights, rear parking sensors, as well as a new 10-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s the usual range of driving assistance tech too, with lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking equipped as standard.

Next up is the GS model, available with both the 99bhp and 134bhp engine. Featuring a sportier appearance, with a contrasting black roof and black 17-inch wheels, the GS adds LED fog lights and tail lights, front parking sensors and a rearview camera to the Design model’s already generous equipment list.

Top of the Corsa Hybrid range is the Ultimate trim, exclusive to the 134bhp model. This adds additional high-spec features, such as adaptive LED matrix headlights and keyless entry, along with heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

How much does the Corsa Hybrid cost and when can I order one?

The entry-level Design model starts at £22,890, around £3,500 more than the most basic petrol-powered Corsa. The middle tier GS model costs from £25,270, an extra £970 is required for the more powerful 134bhp engine. Top-spec Ultimate models begin at £29,020, or roughly £4,000 less than the cheapest Corsa Electric.

Order books are open now with the first UK cars expected to be delivered in March.

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