Vauxhall revives Corsa SRi, Opel gets GSi

After a two year hiatus, the Opel Corsa SRi has returned to showrooms sporting a new 148hp 1.6L turbo petrol engine or a 123hp 1.7L CDTi diesel. The petrol unit is based on that found in the Corsa VXR, and gives the SRi the ability to sprint from 0-60mph in just 7.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 130mph.The diesel model, meanwhile, sees the hatch accelerate from 0-60mph in 9.3 seconds, with a top speed of 121mph. Fuel consumption remains at 58.9mpg.

For both models, the power is kept in check by a specially developed sports chassis, lowered by 18mm at the front and 15mm at the rear and featuring ESP as standard. The power steering features variable progressive feedback, meaning the weighting at the wheel changes electronically depending on speed.

Completing the package is a front spoiler, body-colored side sills, 17-inch alloy wheels, a chrome sports exhaust pipe and a subtle tailgate spoiler. Inside, red-detailed sports seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel with red inserts, alloy pedals and red seatbelts further set the performance tone.