2015 Vauxhall Corsa VXR Makes Its Play For The Hot-Hatch Crown: Video

The hot hatch was born, and thrives in Europe. On American shores, we’ve barely scratched the surface on the bountiful amounts of hot hatchbacks offered. Sure, we have the Focus ST, Volkswagen GTI et cetera, but these cars started in Europe, before adding some ugly-amber safety reflectors and coming Stateside.

The 2015 Vauxhall Corsa VXR is no stranger to Europe, and has been duking it out among its rivals since the VXR badge was employed in 2005. Fast-forward ten years, and there isn’t a lack of competition for the 2015 Corsa VXR. Specifically, the Ford Fiesta ST.

So, Auto Express decided to take the 2015 Corsa VXR and its 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder to the track and street to see if the Fiesta ST had been dethroned. Through their on road and track testing, it became apparent the optional performance package was a must. It adds Brembo brakes, a limited-slip differential and a specifically tuned suspension setup to compliment the 181-lb-ft of torque provided.

Auto Express deemed the 2015 Corsa VXR a joy to drive, especially with said performance package, and the car’s over-boost feature when approaching redline, which kick an extra grunt of torque in last second, was a highlight of their experience. But it wasn’t enough to dethrone the Fiesta ST.

The sport suspension was found to be excellent for track use, but for everyday driving, it was rough and jittery, and the Fiesta ST was said to feel more “eager” all around to go fast and drive hard.

Still, the blokes decided there is no shame in saying you own a 2015 Corsa VXR. It’s just not quite there yet. Check out the review right down below.