Opel's hot Corsa, the OPC (which stands for Opel Performance Centre – think of it as AMG for hatchbacks) will gain 17bhp over the outgoing version to pack a substantial 207bhp. It also means that Opel is now the only mainstream car maker to have hot versions of all of its core models – the Corsa, Astra and Insignia.
The 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine will push the Corsa from 0-100km/h in a claimed 6.9 seconds, and on to a top speed of 230km/h if you happen to have an Autobahn about your person. Standard torque output is 245Nm but there's an additional 35Nm on tap for an overcast function for overtaking. Co2 emissions though are a little disappointing – 174g/km means it has similar emissions to the much more powerful Ford Focus RS. Fuel consumption is a claimed 7.5-litres per 100km, or about 37mpg.
Although the Corsa OPC now sits about 10mm lower on its springs than the old one, Opel claims it has actually improved the ride quality to make the car more useable day-to-day.
There’s the option of a Performance Package too, which ramps up the brake size to 330mm, fits a mechanical front differential to allow the car to put its power down better in corners, 18” wheels and more performance-focused suspension.
“Our OPC models are the dynamic spearheads of our car ranges. They reflect Opel’s sporting heritage, epitomise quality German engineering, emotional design and distinctive driving dynamics. It also demonstrates how high the bar has been set in this segment.” commented Dave Sheeran, Managing Director, Opel Ireland.
