New Corsa to lead fresh focus for Opel in Ireland

Opel has launched its all-new Corsa in Ireland at a starting price of €17,975, writes Trish Whelan.

The sixth generation of the nameplate is longer, lower, and has a longer wheelbase than its predecessor, and is the first new one for 12 years.

A range of techniques and technologies make the latest Corsa 25pc more efficient in CO2 emissions than the older car. These include cutting the weight by 10pc, saving up to 108kg.

It comes with 1.2 petrol and 1.5 diesel engines and a full electric version is on the way with a range of 337kms. Automatic options will be available in every grade.

There are three trims, all with high levels of driver assist systems. "Safety is not an option," James Brooks, MD of Leeson Motors, the new distributors of Opel in Ireland, said at the launch event. "In addition, all Corsas will come with LED headlights and auto-dip as standard."

James Brooks noted that the new car is the first completely new Opel since the brand was bought by the PSA Group. He said a simplified product lineup will lead the brand in building on the existing Opel vehicle parc in Ireland of 115,843.

With the new Corsa the company will be focusing on potential customers 'who have already had the Corsa experience' as well as new buyers for the model. In global terms, one in four Opels are Corsas.

Along with the recently renewed Astra and the Corsa, a new Grandland X hybrid will arrive in Ireland by Easter. This will be followed by a facelifted Crossland, and a new generation Mokka in December.

"Our plan is to be product driven, with a focus on protecting the residual values for our customers," James Brooks says.

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