Opel / Vauxhall's New Hot Hatch Could Be A Serious Contender | Corsa OPC / VXR | Geneva International Motor Show 2015

A Manual Gearbox.

Unlike a certain other new hot hatch also revealed at the 2015 International Geneva Motor Show (we are look at you, RenaultSport Clio Trophy...) the new Opel Corsa OPC (Vauxhall Corsa VXR in the UK) has 6 gears and a clutch pedal. As a hardcore drivers car, could they be about to snatch a few of Renault's customers? That is, if Ford hasn't already with their Fiesta ST...

This latest pocket rocket is based on the recently heavily-refreshed standard Corsa. Not quite an all-new model, it boasts improved styling and a fresh interior. In the case of the OPC / VXR, it also means new wheels, a unique suspension set-up, bigger brakes and a 1.6 petrol engine, turbocharged to reach 204bhp. It is nice to think that not too long ago a) 200bhp in a front-wheel drive car would be unmanageable and b) 200bhp in any car was considered very rapid indeed. Yet here is a supermini with more than that. Heck, this means you can buy a Corsa that will do a frankly incredible 143mph. Happy days people, happy days.

Another addition, is a slightly garish front air scoop, in-between the top of the bumper and the bonnet. Sure to please many people under the age of 25 and slightly aggrieve those over. Especially considering (as you can see in our video below) it is completely fake. There is no hole, no air is being scooped.

If the previous Corsa Nurburgring edition was anything to go buy however, this should be a cracker to drive. With the added improvements, a slightly lower price and an optional Performance Package which entails Brembo brakes and a clever differential, we could be looking at a new class leader.

Why not read: An Old Name Returns & A Strange New One Emerges - Opel Karl/Vauxhall Viva - Geneva International Motor Show 2015