With the unveiling of the new-gen Corsa earlier this week, Opel/Vauxhall engineers can now focus on the development of its sportier derivatives.
Under PSA’s guidance, the German supermini, available with an electric powertrain like its French sibling, the Peugeot e-208. Further down the road, though, a couple of hot versions should be coming our way sooner rather than later.
The most accessible of the two replace the current GSi , which uses a 150 PS (148 hp / 110 kW) 1.4-liter, turbocharged engine linked to a six-speed manual gearbox. Performance is respectable for a supermini, with the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint taking 8.9 seconds and top speed standing at 207 km/h (129 mph).
Whether it’s not clear if the same moniker will be used for the all-new Corsa, it is very likely – and it could look similar to the rendering posted by XTomi. Compared to the rest of the new Corsa range, it features reworked front bumper and grille, as well as larger alloy wheels and a striking red paint contrasted by the black roof, side mirrors and other exterior elements.
The other two renderings come via KleberSilva and portray the range-ropping Corsa OPC. A true rival to the likes of the Volkswagen Polo GTI, Ford Fiesta ST and Renault Clio RS, it sets itself apart with the sporty body kit, different grille and rear wing designs, and dual tailpipes. It would also add a more potent engine, given that its predecessor got a 207 PS (204 hp / 152 kW) 1.6-liter turbocharged four and hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds.