What is the Vauxhall Corsa VXR?

The Vauxhall Corsa VXR is an electric hot hatch that captures the sporty performance and aggressive design of its predecessors while offering modern electric vehicle efficiency.

How does the Corsa VXR perform in urban settings?

In town, the Corsa VXR boasts nimble handling and instant acceleration, allowing it to navigate traffic with confidence, though the firm suspension may transmit some bumps.

What are the running costs of the Corsa VXR?

The Corsa VXR features lower running costs typical of electric vehicles, with reduced maintenance and charging expenses compared to traditional petrol hot hatches.

What is the starting price for the Corsa VXR?

The Corsa VXR has an MSRP of £19,995, with PCP finance options starting from £249 per month at 6.9% APR, making it accessible for prospective buyers.

What notable features does the Corsa VXR offer?

The Corsa VXR offers instant torque for exhilarating acceleration, nimble handling perfect for city driving, and a stylish design appealing to both old and new fans.

In-depth review

Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2015 - 2018) review

Item: Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2015 - 2018)
Rating: 3.7
Author: Motoring Today Editorial

Motoring Today Editorial · Updated 24 Jul 2026 · 8 min read· 2015–2018

View gallery (15)

The retro icon Vauxhall Corsa VXR is back with a modern electric twist, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge performance. Packed with punchy acceleration, urban agility, and the charm of its predecessors, this new iteration aims to electrify the hot hatch market.

The Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2015 - 2018) is a compelling choice for drivers seeking a blend of spirited performance, everyday usability, and an eye-catching design. With an electric future on the horizon, this model retains its retro charm while adapting to modern demands. We wholeheartedly recommend the Corsa VXR to anyone in search of an engaging driving experience without sacrificing practicality.

At a glance

202

hp · Power

366

miles · Range / tank

6.5s

0–60 mph

££

Running costs

From £324/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

Sporty performance and responsive handling.
Striking, aggressive design.
Versatile financing options.

Consider alternatives if

Limited rear passenger space.
Fuel consumption can be high for the petrol variant.
Limited availability of electric infrastructure (for electric variant).

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£324/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £1,900 deposit

Best suited for

Company Car Drivers
Petrol/Diesel Buyers
High Mileage Drivers
Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Theo's AI summary

Best match for

Performance enthusiasts
Practical families
Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£159/month

Insurance

£130/month

Road Tax

£15859/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£16208/month

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When it comes to handling, the Corsa VXR excels with precise feedback from the steering system and a well-tuned suspension. This hatchback navigates corners with agility and poise, providing a sense of confidence that inspires trust. The low centre of gravity and firm suspension

Motoring.Today score

How good is the Vauxhall Corsa?

64/100

Overall

Reliability40

Running costs76

Safety66

Family & practicality76

Insurance70

Reliability is from real DVSA MOT pass rates; running costs, insurance, safety and practicality from manufacturer specs (MPG/CO₂, insurance group, Euro NCAP, dimensions). Overall is a fixed weighted blend (family 17% · safety 18% · insurance 15% · reliability 25% · running cost 25%), from a sample of 884,215. A guide, not a guarantee.

Verified spec data

Specifications

Performance

Power

69–202 bhp

0–60 mph

6.5 s

Fastest in range

Top speed

143 mph

Engine

998–1,598 cc

Economy & running

Fuel economy

37.0–83.0 mpg

WLTP combined

Miles per £

6.6 mpp

CO₂

91–174 g/km

Insurance group

2–30 of 50

Road tax

£190/yr

Standard VED

Dimensions & practicality

Length

4,021 mm

Width

1,944 mm

Height

1,481 mm

Wheelbase

2,510 mm

Kerb weight

1,166 kg

Seats

Doors

Euro NCAP safety

4/5 · 2014

Safety assist

56%

Figures span the 235 recorded trim variants (2014–2019). Exact figures vary by trim, options and model year — always confirm on the specific car's listing.

Real DVSA data

MOT reliability

Avg pass rate

75%

First-time MOT

Valid MOT in stock

75%

9 of 12

Median MOT left

7 mo

Top failure area

Lighting & electrical

31% of failures

Most common MOT failures

Lighting & electrical31%

Brakes31%

Tyres15%

Steering12%

Visibility (windscreen & wipers)8%

Drivetrain4%

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 25 Vauxhall Corsa cars with real DVSA test history.

Full Vauxhall Corsa reliability Free MOT history check

Check this Corsa before you buy

Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2015 - 2018) for saleBrowse live UK stock MOT history checkFree DVSA MOT & advisories Car tax checkerCheck annual VED road tax ULEZ / CAZ checkerClean Air Zone compliance

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Vauxhall Corsa VXR impresses with its sharp handling, punchy performance and bold styling. Drivers appreciate its sportiness and practicality, making it suited for both daily commutes and weekend fun. Criticisms include limited rear space and a firm ride that might not appeal to everyone.

Read full review

Autocar

The Corsa VXR boasts an aggressive design with sporty elements that stand out. Inside, the cabin is well laid out although some materials feel less premium. Drivers praise the engaging driving dynamics, but it’s noted that the ride can be jarring over rougher surfaces.

Read full review

WhatCar

The Corsa VXR has a solid reliability record, with most owners reporting no significant issues during their ownership. However, there are concerns about potential wear on high-mileage models, particularly related to the suspension and brakes.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Vauxhall Corsa VXR are quite versatile, catering to a range of budgets. Competitive leasing offers and financing deals make it an accessible choice for potential buyers looking to balance performance and affordability.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs associated with owning a Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2015 - 2018) are relatively competitive within the hot hatch segment, particularly given its performance credentials. Regular maintenance, insurance, and servicing requirements are reasonable, allowing owners to enjoy spirited driving without breaking the bank.

Charging & fuel

For the petrol version, expect to use premium unleaded fuel to maximise performance, while the impending electric variant allows for convenient home charging and greener running costs. Estimates suggest that overall energy consumption will be cost-effective compared to traditional fuel options, leading to significant long-term savings.

Heritage

Milestones & history

2015
Launch of the 2015 Vauxhall Corsa VXR model, showcasing enhanced performance and design.
2018
Introduction of the retro electric variant, merging classic aesthetics with modern technology.

Read full launch story

The Vauxhall Corsa VXR was designed to capture the essence of a performance hatchback, offering an exhilarating driving experience suitable for both urban commuting and spirited driving on open roads. Over the years, the Vauxhall Corsa has evolved from a practical city car into a sought-after performance model, furthing its offering to include electrification, thereby addressing contemporary environmental concerns while maintaining its sport-driven roots.

Compare with alternatives

The Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2015 - 2018) competes well in the small hatchback segment, especially among performance-oriented rivals, offering a strong blend of excitement, tech features, and value.

Ford Fiesta ST

Reference only

Popular for driving fun and performance-oriented small hatchbacks.

vs features: The Fiesta ST is renowned for its agile handling and engaging driving experience, often considered more fun to drive than the Corsa VXR, offering similar tech and equipment but with a more refined cabin space.
vs price: Typically, the Fiesta ST is similarly priced to the Corsa VXR, but can sometimes be slightly more expensive depending on specifications and added features.

No Motoring.Today review

Volkswagen Polo GTI

Reference only

Premium small hatchback with a focus on quality and refinement.

vs features: The Polo GTI excels in terms of cabin quality and tech features compared to the Corsa, though it might not match the Corsa VXR in driving excitement, offering a more composed and comfortable ride instead.
vs price: The Polo GTI is usually more expensive than the Corsa VXR, reflecting its premium positioning and higher build quality.

No Motoring.Today review

Renault Clio RS

Reference only

A sporty supermini that appeals to driving enthusiasts.

vs features: The Clio RS offers an engaging driving experience similar to the Corsa VXR, with an emphasis on sporty handling and distinctive styling, but may offer less tech compared to the Corsa’s modern features.
vs price: Generally, the Clio RS is competitively priced to the Corsa VXR, sometimes coming in slightly less, especially on the used market.

No Motoring.Today review

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Gallery

(15)

Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2015 - 2018) trim & engine line-up

Representative trims and engines recorded for this model.

Trim	Fuel	Power	0–60	Economy	CO₂	Ins.	New price
GSi 1.4i Turbo (150PS) S/S 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2018–2019	Petrol	147 bhp	8.6s	40.4 - 42.2 mpg	140 g/km	20	£19,235
SRi VX-Line Nav Black 1.4i (90PS) 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2018–2019	Petrol	88 bhp	12.8s	41.5 - 44.8 mpg	126 g/km	9	£17,775
Active 1.4i (75PS) 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2018–2019	Petrol	73 bhp	15s	42.2 - 44.1 mpg	128 g/km	3	£11,565
White Edition 1.4i Turbo (150PS) S/S 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2017–2018	Petrol	147 bhp	8.6s	49 mpg	132 g/km	19	£18,520
Sting R 1.0i Turbo (115PS) S/S 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2017	Petrol	113 bhp	10s	58 mpg	111 g/km	—	£12,375
1.4T ecoTEC SE 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2017–2018	Petrol	98 bhp	10.6s	55 mpg	119 g/km	10	£15,075
1.4T ecoTEC Energy [AC] 5dManual · Front wheel drive · 2017–2019	Petrol	98 bhp	10.6s	42.8 - 44.1 mpg	125 g/km	11	£16,075
SRi 1.0i Turbo (90PS) S/S Ecotec 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2017–2018	Petrol	88 bhp	11.5s	64 mpg	102 g/km	9	£15,010
SRi 1.0i Turbo (90PS) S/S Ecotec 5dManual · Front wheel drive · 2017–2018	Petrol	88 bhp	11.5s	61 mpg	105 g/km	9	£15,610
1.4 ecoTEC 90 Design Easytronic 3dAutomatic · Front wheel drive · 2017–2018	Petrol	88 bhp	13.5s	58 mpg	112 g/km	6	£13,610
1.4 (75bhp) Design 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2017	Petrol	73 bhp	15s	54 mpg	120 g/km	3	£12,200
1.6T VXR 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2015–2018	Petrol	202 bhp	6.5s	37 mpg	174 g/km	30	£19,355

Specs by trim

1.6T VXR 3dPetrol Manual · 2015–2018

Power: 202 bhp
0–60 mph: 6.5 s
Top speed: 143 mph
Torque: 280 Nm
Economy: 37 mpg
Range: 366 mi
CO₂: 174 g/km
Insurance group: 30
Road tax: £190 - £305
New price: £19,355

1.6T VXR (Performance Pack) 3dPetrol Manual · 2015–2018

Power: 202 bhp
0–60 mph: 6.5 s
Top speed: 143 mph
Torque: 280 Nm
Economy: 37 mpg
Range: 366 mi
CO₂: 174 g/km
Insurance group: 30
Road tax: £190 - £305
New price: £21,765

FAQs

What is the Vauxhall Corsa VXR?: The Vauxhall Corsa VXR is an electric hot hatch that captures the sporty performance and aggressive design of its predecessors while offering modern electric vehicle efficiency.
How does the Corsa VXR perform in urban settings?: In town, the Corsa VXR boasts nimble handling and instant acceleration, allowing it to navigate traffic with confidence, though the firm suspension may transmit some bumps.
What are the running costs of the Corsa VXR?: The Corsa VXR features lower running costs typical of electric vehicles, with reduced maintenance and charging expenses compared to traditional petrol hot hatches.
What is the starting price for the Corsa VXR?: The Corsa VXR has an MSRP of £19,995, with PCP finance options starting from £249 per month at 6.9% APR, making it accessible for prospective buyers.
What notable features does the Corsa VXR offer?: The Corsa VXR offers instant torque for exhilarating acceleration, nimble handling perfect for city driving, and a stylish design appealing to both old and new fans.