By: IOL Motoring Staff
You might see some familiarity in its silhouette, but the upgrades to 2015's Corsa are so extensive that Opel is referring to it as a whole new generation.
Though it's built around the same basic platform and structure as its predecessor, every single body panel that this Corsa wears is new and the changes are particularly distinctive at the front where an imposing new grille pulls an Adam-like grin.
The most significant change, you might argue, takes place beneath the bonnet where any form of older technology has been banished in favour of a brand new three-cylinder, one-litre Ecoflex tubopetrol - rated at 85kW and 170Nm - that's fitted across the board.
Opel also redesigned the chassis and suspension, while the cabin gets a complete makeover of its own - complete with smarter fabrics and surfaces.
Three grades are on offer, sporting the familiar names Essentia, Enjoy and Cosmo.
Essentia leads the affordability race, but falls a little short on the standard features front. Front electric windows and 'City Mode' power steering are standard, but you have to resort to one of the options packs if you want air conditioning and a sound system.
At least the safety bar is set high, with six airbags, ABS and ESP stability control as standard issue.
The Enjoy gives you that aircon and radio, in addition to 16-inch alloys, multi information display, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, fog lights and LED daytime running lights, among other items.
The flagship Cosmo adds cruise control and automatic light and wiper activation to the mix, along with bi-xenon headlights and snazzier cabin upholstery and décor.
Options include parking sensors, blind sport alert and the IntelliLink infotainment system.
All versions are sold with a three-year or 60 000km service plan and five-year or 120 000km warranty.
PRICES
Corsa 1.0T Essentia - R185 500
Corsa 1.0T Enjoy - R216 200
Corsa 1.0T Cosmo - R236 300
At the time of writing, Motoring Editor Denis Droppa was attending the local launch in Cape Town. Look out for his full report in the motoring section of The Star, Mercury or Cape Times this Thursday.