Opel has released images of the new Corsa OPC, the ultra-powerful small hot-hatch, ahead of the Geneva Motor Show (March 5-15, 2015). Benefiting from the significant revisions in technology, interior/exterior design and chassis showcased in the recently launched New Corsa, the OPC is set to raise the bar for small, fast hatchbacks when it arrives in Ireland this summer.
The fastest member of the New Corsa range provides uncompromising performance with high torque of 207hp combined with a 1.6 litre turbo charged engine. Headline performance figures include 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, a transition from 80 to 120 km/h in 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 230km/h. More importantly however, the Corsa OPC produces 245Nm of torque from low revs (between 1,900 and 5,800 rpm compared with 2,250rpm to 5,500rpm in the outgoing model) plus an additional 35Nm is available when required with the overboost functionality which is ideal for swift and safe overtaking. Despite its sporting credentials, the Corsa OPC achieves Co2 emissions of 174g/km and consumes 7.5 litres of fuel per 100Kms for the combined cycle.
Opel has worked closely with damper-supplier, Koni, to develop a new technology, known as Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) for the new Corsa OPC. FSD allows damping forces to adapt to the car’s movements, ensuring that body control is maintained when the car is driven fast, but ride quality is optimised at lower speeds. In addition, the car’s ride height has been lowered by 10mm all round.
For the first time, Opel is also offering a two-stage switchable electronic stability programme (ESP) and traction control (TC) with the Corsa OPC. In Competition Mode the traction control is inactive, while the ESP is relaxed to allow less intervention. For track use, the ESP can be fully disabled.
Revisions have been made to the new Corsa OPC’s steering, making it more direct and precise, with improved feedback through the wheel. Michelin 215/45 R17 tyres are standard, as are 308mm front brake discs.
Standard bi-xenon lighting and a choice of six exterior colours help the new Corsa OPC stand out in its class. An aggressive new front-end design features large air intakes and an aluminium-framed opening below the headlights. A small scoop is located below the bonnet and side-sill extensions enhance the Corsa OPC’s performance credentials still further. At the rear, a rear spoiler provides meaningful downforce over the back axle, and twin Remus exhaust pipes further distinguish it from regular Corsas.
Six exterior colours – including Flash Blue, which is unique to the Corsa OPC – are available for the Corsa OPC. The car’s cabin features Recaro seats, a leather, flat-bottomed steering wheel, sports pedals, as well as OPC gear-lever and instruments. A heated front windscreen and Intellilink connectivity for Apple iOS and Android smartphones are also standard.
“Our OPC models are the dynamic spearheads of our car ranges. They reflect Opel’s sporting heritage, epitomise quality German engineering, emotional design and distinctive driving dynamics. It also demonstrates how high the bar has been set in this segment.” commented Dave Sheeran, Managing Director, Opel Ireland.
Performance Package
For Corsa OPC customers keen to enhance their car’s dynamics still further, Opel also offers an optional Performance Package, which includes features previously seen in the outgoing model. Highlights include a Drexler limited-slip differential, larger 330mm-diameter Brembo front brake discs, 18-inch alloy wheels and more focused FSD damper settings.
