When it comes to using...
When it comes to using too much jargon, car dealers are far from being the worst sales staff. While 26 per cent of mobile phone shoppers and 18 per cent of double glazing buyers are left feeling confused, only eight per cent of second-hand car buyers walk away from the forecourt overwhelmed by data! That’s according to a survey by Vauxhall’s Network Q scheme.
Looking every inch the...
Looking every inch the baby Astra with its distinctive C-pillar and tall roof-line, the supermini promises to rival Fiat"s Grande Punto in the style stakes. Its bold design is framed at the front by sporty lights and a wide grille, while those curves are mirrored by the tail-gate and a lower back bumper. Large, distinctive lamps finish off the rear.
With A-pillars that stretch deep into the wings, there is plenty of glass at the front, which should make for good visibility and a light, airy cabin. The same design trick is used on the three-door, but a steeply curved rear windscreen gives the car a more sporty personality - and it is aimed at younger buyers as a result.
Both the three and five-door will be much bigger than their predecessors - similar in size to the Grande Punto, with which they share a platform - offering more leg and headroom, plus improved loadspace. Five-doors will get clever storage solutions such as a sliding bike rack - as reported in Issue 901 - while the boot will have an under-floor compartment. GM engineers have spent the past few years refining the Corsa"s road manners in a variety of conditions, and the new car is expected to offer a sporty, yet grown-up drive.
Engines will include new 1.4-litre petrol and 1.3 diesel units, while a 170bhp 1.6 turbo three-door VXR will arrive in 2007. Prices for the new range will kick off at around ÷£7,500.