The Opel Corsa OPC Is GM's Fiesta ST

[Fiesta ST News]

The concept of the hot hatch has rarely caught on in the U.S., where small cars are usually saddled with wimpy engines. There are a few exceptions to that rule, of course, such as the Ford Fiesta ST and the Volkswagen GTI. In Europe it?s a different story, of course, and that?s where GM just introduced a hot hatch that could provide a potent crosstown rival for the feisty Fiesta: the Opel Corsa OPC.

The Corsa is available with a huge array of engine and transmission choices, but we find it easy to pick our favorite: the 204-hp 1.6-liter turbo mated to a six-speed manual. With 207 lb-ft of torque, it flings the Corsa OPC from zero to 62 mph in just 6.8 seconds and reaches 143 mph.

To set it apart from its lesser siblings, the Corsa OPC comes with a full aero kit, a lowered suspension, 215/45R-17 tires, and a stability control system that can be switched off entirely. An optional Performance package turns up the heat even more, with 18-inch wheels, larger brakes, and a Drexler multi-disc limited-slip differential. This package mirrors the previous Corsa's Nurburgring Edition, a car that deeply impressed us on the track.

The Corsa OPC's performance puts it neck-and-neck with the Polo GTI and the Fiesta ST, and we believe it would be a great addition to GM's lineup anywhere, including the U.S. But since the standard Corsa is not federalized for the U.S. market, there's no chance we?ll see this spicy offering on GM's menu in the States. That may be good news for Ford, but it's not so good for us.

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[CanadianGuy]

LOL read that exact article this morning. The thing is Ford has created in the Fiesta a world platform. They are doing the same thing with the 2016 Edge. I really think that is the way of the future. Sure there are nuances in certain countries and taste for cars but one platform with software/minor mechanical tweaks instead of an WHOLE new design will be more cost effective and stop the "grass is greener" issue. Why I say this is the Corsa would have a hard time in the NA market as it is not even close to the Sonic or Cruze they already have. It would dilute/confuse the market even more, not to mention where would it be built? Mind you they really created a sport vehicle with their Sonic RS (I know cheap shot...) LOL

 

[GreGGo]

Looks like a 3-door Buick Encore to me.

 

[doubletap]

I like it. Those recaros are nice.

 

[BoostBumps]

those seats are very nice indeed!!

 

[MOFiST]

Not a fan of the front end. Though this car took some time to grow on me as well but that car is furrgly

 

[mYsTiCfAc3]

Likes:
Dash - Seats - Lights - Dual exhaust - LSD

Dislikes:
No arm rest - Beige headliner - GM

 

[Butterybunz]

I can dig it. I wouldn't buy it, but I welcome competition! Too bad it will never be sold in the states.