Car Statistics: Vauxhall - Corsa Series 06 (4 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

Handsome and distinctive, although we reckon that the taller five-door version actually looks a bit better than the coupe-like three-door.

Handling (4 stars)

Composed and confidence inspiring, the Corsa drives very well, especially with the optional variable ratio electric power steering.

Comfort (3 stars)

The cabin is a good place to spend time, but the abrasive ride feels too harsh over rough surfaces.

Quality (4 stars)

Solid construction and some nice feeling components from the Astra and Vectra ensure the Corsa feels impressively well screwed together.

Performance (3 stars)

The 1.0 and 1.2 litre petrol engines really lack go - even the 1.4 feels distinctly unrapid. Diesel motors are better, especially the sweet, punchy, 88 bhp 1.3 CTDi. Look to VXR for any real pedigree.

Roominess (4 stars)

One of the most spacious interiors in the supermini segment - four full-sized adults will fit with ease, although the lower roofline of the three-door limits headroom compared with the five-door.

Costs (5 stars)

The Corsa promises to continue to be one of the cheapest cars to run in the UK, thanks to a combination of strong fuel economy, cheap insurance and good value servicing from Vauxhall dealers. 1.3 diesels are impressively frugal, too.

Value (4 stars)

Attractive entry level pricing comes at the cost of the gutless 1.0 litre engine and not much kit, gets pricier towards the top end of the range, but good standard equipment offsets this.

Stereo (4 stars)

ne of the better supermini sound systems, with good quality reproduction throughout the cabin and a range of optional upgrade systems. Full colour satnav looks good, but it's slow witted and hard to program.