Opel Corsa GSi Is The Performance Package The Chevrolet Sonic Should Have Received
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The Chevrolet Sonic never received the performance package we always thought the hatchback deserved, but across the Atlantic, Opel has something we envy.
Opel will roll out the Corsa GSi, which follows the Insignia GSi, this summer. The hot hatchback will bring a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine to the party with 150 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. Those are minor improvements over the Chevy Sonic, but the performance rests in the tuning and other specific goodies.
Opel has tuned the six-speed manual transmission for short throws and peak torque comes between just 3,000 and 4,500 rpm. The chassis also benefits from the Corsa OPC, the range-topping hot hatch. Furthermore, beefier brakes aid in stopping power.
That’s not to mention the Corsa GSi is quite a cool looking car, too. We’ve clamored for a Chevrolet hot hatch for quite some time, but alas, our calls haven’t been answered. And with Opel out from General Motors’ control, the likelihood of a GM-branded hot hatchback seems less likely with time.
The Corsa GSi, though, would have made an excellent Sonic SS.
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You could always get more engine performance by going to a tuner such as Trifecta (+51 ft-lbs and +44 WHP), but putting a nicely sorted suspension along with a limited slip differential would have been harder to do and expensive. This Opel puts everything together with a factory warranty.
There should of been a sportier variant of the Chevy passenger cars except for Spark. But I guess GM doesn’t see profit from that.
Cruze should 100% have an SS version
AWD, DCT, and 2.0TT with 300HP.
IMHO, ~200 – 250 with limited slip would have been plenty for me. Adding all those other items would start to push the car into Camaro $$$ territory. I’m not convinced that GM would be committed enough to build a Type-R/Focus RS/Golf R competitor. Something closer to a Civic SI would have been more realistic.
Already have that on my Sonic with GMPP exaust, air box and tunes for ea from GM with full factory
warrenty.
How do you like it? I’m planning the upgrade on my Cruze RS right now.
I drive since January 2018 a identical OPEL Corsa S with the same technology. Only the wheels are 17 inches and the frontbumper is from the OPC line package. Well the brakes are also smaller, but who brakes a lot is too fast. I always drive legally fast. Incidentally, my Corsa S is also painted in Mandarin Orange. Every day I am happy about the brisk small car. Would be glad if you can buy the Corsa GSi in the USA and Australia. Whether as Buick Corsa GS or Holden Corsa VXR or HSV Corsa R.