Offering more than its rivals, the Corsa Utility

Ever since its debut in 1993, the Opel Corsa Utility has competed in a completely different market than half tonners. Less of a workhorse, the Corsa Utility offered hatchback handling and sedan comforts with the benefit of a loading bin.

Needless to say, it’s been a massive success and the Corsa C version released seven years later found its way onto many a driveway. The Corsa Utility offered so much more than its typical rivals. The ‘new’ Utility (released in 2012) no longer falls under the Opel Corsa banner, instead taken charge of by Chevrolet, but what does this mean for the world’s best half tonner?

Well, first off, the Utility is no longer a half tonner; load capacity is up to 733kg as claimed by GM. The exterior has received a mighty big overhaul, not as easy on the eye as previous models, but inline with GM’s design philosophy. No doubt realising GM have hit a market not originally intended, they have opted for a curvier, sportier appearance than previous models. The mismatched shapes might not be as easy on the eye as previous models, but the 2012 Utility is anything but ugly.

The rear bumpers have horn-like shapes, reminiscent of the Lumina Ute, and even the frontal aspect uses similar protrusions to give a fiendish appearance. The Ute sits high with large wheelarch gaps that make the 15-inch alloy wheels of this Sport version look undersized. No doubt some owners will try to fill them with aftermarket items.

Size-wise, the new Ute is 78 mm longer but the wheelbase is a touch shorter. To improve rearward visibility, the tailgate has been shaved down. As far as styling goes, some mumble that the outgoing model looks neater, while others prefer the new shape. One thing is clear: the large, doubledecker grille now slots into Chev’s corporate appearance, so it firmly becomes a bona fide member of the family.

The interior is a huge step up from the outgoing model, that’s for sure. A redesigned instrument binnacle with reduced sweep speedometer and rev counter surrounding a clear central display, comfier seats and better execution are all thrown in to prove that GM has what it takes to carry the legend. It really is well designed.

Loads of storage bins and cupholders are scattered throughout the cabin. The door pockets have removable partitions and there are two large bins in the side panels behind the seats, hidden out of sight of prying eyes.

One of the best features, carried over from the Corsa Utility, is the excellent space provided behind the seats – enough for bags and parcels. Aiding the use of this space is decent legroom for driver and passenger, so the seats can be moved forward sufficiently if more luggage space is required.

Leg and head room is sufficient for average sized males, but those pushing 1.9 metres will simply struggle to get comfortable behind the steering wheel. The audio system is a basic rectangular, slot-in unit, but performs well enough with aux-in and USB ports to supplement the radio/CD.

The new Utility comes in three flavours. 1.4 petrol, 1.8 petrol and a 1.3 diesel. No doubt the 1.4 petrol will be chosen by many, but the 1.8 motor is a true gem. 77kw on a light body makes for some interesting handling dynamics, which means a heap of fun when pushed hard.

The suspension setup works well on the three-quarter tonner; pushed hard or hauling, the Utility is a great performer.

The Utility might have lost its German tradition and clinical approach to engineering, but Chevrolet has done an amazing job at keeping the spirit of the Utility in this new model. By all accounts, it should be nothing more than a load hauler, but not so deep down, it’s got the heart of super-mini. A great interior and fantastic motor line-up make the Chevrolet Utility well worth a look.

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