New Vauxhall Corsa GSE Awarded ‘Hot Hatch of the Year’ at News UK Motor Awards 2026

•  New Vauxhall Corsa GSE wins ‘Hot Hatch of the Year’ at the News UK Motor Awards 2026

• Judges praised the GSE for its design, performance, and driving experience

• The GSE is the most powerful production Corsa of all time with 281PS, and the fastest accelerating Vauxhall on sale with a 0-62 mph time of 5.5 seconds

• Vauxhall Corsa GSE delivers attainable performance in line with Vauxhall’s hot hatch heritage and is available to order now for just £34,495 OTR (£32,995 inc. Electric Car Grant)

• The New Vauxhall Corsa GSE has been awarded ‘Hot Hatch of the Year’ at the News UK Motor Awards 2026 

The News UK Motor Awards 2026 celebrate the standout new cars shaping today’s market, recognising models across key categories spanning family, city, adventure, and performance cars. Winners are selected by an expert judging panel of leading automotive journalists from News UK titles, including The Sun, The Times, The Sunday Times Magazine, and LUXX Magazine.

 The judges praised the New Vauxhall Corsa GSE for its classic racing-inspired design, impressive performance, and fun driving experience. Rob Gill, Motors Editor at The Sun, said “The best colour is white. Like Vauxhall's old race cars. I think we can all agree on that. Small Car. Big Power. Tartan Seats. I had so much fun testing Vauxhall Corsa GSE at Croft, I didn’t want to give it back.”

 

Eurig Druce, Vauxhall Managing Director, said: “The New Corsa GSE marks a strong return to the hot hatch segment for Vauxhall, bringing both performance and driver appeal, with the benefits of fully electric power. Corsa remains Britain’s best-selling small car, and with the GSE we are continuing Vauxhall’s tradition of sporty superminis in a way that reflects today’s move to electrification. Thank you to the News UK judges for recognising it as ‘Hot Hatch of the Year’ for 2026.”

The new Vauxhall Corsa GSE is the most powerful production Corsa of all time, with 0-62mph acceleration in just 5.5 seconds. Building on the rally-inspired  Vauxhall Mokka GSE, the Corsa GSE features a Torsen® mechanical limited slip differential, extensive chassis upgrades, Alcon® four-piston front brake callipers with 355mm discs, distinctive exterior details and retro-inspired interior touches. Priced at £32,995 including the Electric Car Grant (ECG)*, the Corsa GSE delivers high performance while maintaining everyday practicality.

Opel Continues Growth Momentum: New Registrations, Market Share and Electric Vehicle Sales Increase in the First Half-Year

• On track for global growth: Opel and Vauxhall sell around 313,000 vehicles in the first half of 2026
• Europe gains momentum: Passenger car sales rise by 11.8 percent
• Strong performance in Germany: Passenger car registrations are up by 15 percent
• Successful models driving demand: Corsa remains number one, SUV family grows by more than 37 percent

Opel continued its positive growth momentum in the first half of 2026. From January to June, Opel and its British sister brand Vauxhall sold around 313,000 vehicles worldwide. The passenger car business in particular showed strong growth, with sales rising by more than 7 per cent compared with the same period last year.

Business also developed positively across Europe. In the Enlarged Europe region, Opel and Vauxhall sold around 231,000 passenger cars in the first half of the year, increasing sales by 11.8 percent compared with the same period last year. The market share rose to over 3 percent.

In particular, Opel’s latest generation of models is proving highly popular with customers. Demand for the SUV family comprising Grandland, Frontera and Mokka remains strong, with sales increasing by over 37 percent compared to the previous year globally. The new Vauxhall Frontera is also confirming its successful market launch: In the British B-SUV segment, the model has already reached second place. The all-electric variant is setting the benchmark in its class and has conquered the leading position among electric B-SUVs with a market share of around 16 percent.

Alongside the SUV range, the Opel Corsa remains one of the key success drivers for the German manufacturer. In the United Kingdom, the Vauxhall Corsa continues to lead in the B-hatch segment with a market share of more than 13 percent. In Germany, the Opel Corsa stays the clear number one among small cars. With a segment share of 17.2 percent, it further strengthened its leading position and gained an additional 1.1 percentage points compared with the previous year.

"In the first half of the year, we managed to continue growing despite a challenging market environment. With attractive vehicles, a consistent electrification approach and a strong presence in our core markets, we are continuing to gain market share. The development of our new SUV models and the ongoing success story of the Corsa are particularly pleasing. This gives us strong momentum as we enter the second half of the year," said Florian Huettl, CEO Opel and Vauxhall.

Opel delivered a particularly strong performance in its home market of Germany. With an increase of 15 percent in new passenger car registrations compared with the previous year, the German manufacturer continued its growth momentum in the first half of the year and achieved a market share of 5 percent among passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. At the same time, the success of the Astra Sports Tourer Electric underlines the strength of the current product portfolio: the model continues to hold the leading position in its segment among mainstream manufacturers.

[1] A vehicle's values not only depend on the vehicle's efficient use of fuel but are also influenced by driving behaviour and other non-technical factors.

Next Generation Opel Astra to be Designed, Engineered and Made in Rüsselsheim

• Exciting newcomer: Next-generation compact class bestseller Astra to be produced at Opel home plant in Rüsselsheim
• At least four new models by 2030
• grEEn-campus Rüsselsheim: New global Opel headquarters and Stellantis Germany home under construction
• More than €1 billion to be invested overall in Germany until 2030

The next generation Opel Astra, based on the new Stellantis STLA ONE platform, will be produced at Opel’s home plant in Rüsselsheim. As communicated by Opel CEO Florian Huettl during the Stellantis Investor Day, the German manufacturer plans to introduce at least four new models by 2030. The newcomers include the next generations of the best-selling Opel Astra and Opel Corsa along with the recently announced new C-SUV in partnership with Leapmotor. Meanwhile, Opel will continue to invest in existing models in its portfolio.

“The investment into the production of the next Astra generation in Rüsselsheim underlines the focus of Stellantis on Germany and the importance of Opel,” said Stellantis Enlarged Europe COO Emanuele Cappellano. “The C-segment, which accounts for approximately 30% of total car sales in Europe, is a substantial part of Stellantis’ European strategy to strengthen the Company’s market coverage in our region, as outlined in our FaSTLAne 2030 strategic plan.”

“The allocation of the next-generation Astra to our plant in Rüsselsheim demonstrates Opel’s commitment to Germany as an industrial location. I am delighted that Rüsselsheim will remain the home of the Astra and be built in the direct vicinity of our new grEEn-campus,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl. “This investment is a clear sign that together with our social partners we can reach agreements that benefit all stakeholders.”

“Opel and Vauxhall are important assets within Stellantis and fulfill a significant role especially within Europe,” Xavier Chéreau, Chairman of the Opel Board, said during his visit in Rüsselsheim today. “Made in Germany is a well-recognised quality label for customers worldwide and a defining strategic asset for Opel in the Stellantis group. This performance is supported by strong industrial foundations and high-quality social dialogue,” Chéreau added.

The German manufacturer is thus adding to current projects in Germany with total investments in the country to reach more than €1 billion by 2030. Opel and Stellantis Germany are already constructing a new state-of-the-art headquarter building, the grEEn-campus Rüsselsheim. The new global Opel headquarters and Stellantis Germany home will offer state-of-the-art workplaces that are designed for flexible working and collaboration. Sustainable building materials are being used to ensure a good interior atmosphere. The power supply is provided by a photovoltaic system, which is integrated into a green roof. This not only contributes to biodiversity but also ensures a pleasant microclimate and helps the cooling of the building, which is ensured in parallel via a geothermal system close to the ground.

C-segment models have been a staple of Opel’s portfolio for 90 years. The success story that started with the Kadett in 1936 has been seamlessly continued with the current generation Astra. With high-tech solutions such as the Intelli-Lux HD headlights and highly efficient powertrains including battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, hybrid and diesel the Astra – designed, engineered and made in Germany – caters for a broad range of customer needs. In total, around 25 million units of the Kadett and Astra have been sold to date.

Like the future Opel Astra, the next generation Opel Corsa will be based on the new STLA ONE Stellantis platform and take another step toward making electric mobility accessible and even more relevant. The current generation Corsa has been Germany’s best-selling small car for more than five years and continues to lead the way in 2026. In total, more than 15 million units of the iconic Corsa have been sold.

While the Opel Astra and the Corsa represent two established products in the Opel line-up, the all-new C-SUV, announced to be produced in Zaragoza as part of the extension of the partnership with Leapmotor, will complete the coverage of the C-segment alongside the Opel Frontera and the Opel Grandland. The new vehicle will serve as a blueprint for efficient global collaboration: designed and created by Opel in Rüsselsheim and developed by international teams located in Germany and China. Simultaneously, it will enable the German manufacturer to take a major strategic step forward in terms of electrification and scaling in the shortest possible time with sales of the newcomer expected to start as early as 2028.

[1] A vehicle's values not only depend on the vehicle's efficient use of fuel, but are also influenced by driving behaviour and other non-technical factors.

Opel Increases Global Sales in the First Quarter of 2026 – Double-Digit Growth in Europe

• Worldwide growth: New registrations increase by almost 8% in the first quarter
• Strong in Europe: Passenger car sales in Europe up almost 18% year-on-year
• Continued strength: Corsa remains best-selling small car in Germany and the UK
• Convincing SUVs: Opel Grandland, Frontera and Mokka with double-digit increase

Opel grew worldwide significantly in the first quarter of 2026. From January to March, Opel and its British sister brand Vauxhall sold more than 157,000 cars and light commercial vehicles. That is almost 8%  more than in the previous year.

Growth drivers included the SUV models Mokka, Frontera and Grandland newly launched in 2025. The trio recorded double-digit growth compared to the first quarter of 2025. The new Frontera, for example, is also very successful as an electric vehicle. In the United Kingdom (UK) it is the best-selling all-electric B-SUV in the first quarter of the year, in Spain it ranks fourth and, in the Netherlands, it ranks fifth.

Meanwhile, demand for the Opel Corsa, Germany's best-selling small car for over five years, remains high and is even increasing. Sales of the bestseller were up by 25% in Germany in March. It thus remains the undisputed number one among small cars in Opel’s home market in the first quarter. The same is true in the United Kingdom, while the Corsa is number two in the Netherlands and number three in Portugal, Belgium and Turkey.

"All these figures clearly show that Opel is on a clear road to success. Furthermore, the new Astra has recently started rolling off the production line at our main plant in Rüsselsheim. Our designers and engineers have done an excellent job. The car will convince customers and give us additional drive. I am convinced: 2026 will be a good year for Opel," said Florian Huettl, CEO Opel and Vauxhall.

Passenger car sales in Europe developed particularly positively. From January to March, Opel and Vauxhall sold more than 115,000 passenger cars in the EU29 region. That is 18% more than a year ago. The market share rose by 0.4 percentage points to 3.3%. Also remarkable: In almost all markets, new registrations were higher than in the first quarter of 2025.

Things went particularly well in Opel's home market of Germany. Almost 33,600 new passenger car registrations in the first quarter represent an increase of 39% compared to the same period last year. The market share was up by 1.2 percentage points to 4.8%. In March alone, 13,700 Opel passenger cars were newly registered – that was an impressive 43% more than in the same month of 2025.

One Million Mark Cracked: Current Opel Corsa an Absolute Bestseller

• Customers’ favourite: Opel Corsa top-selling small car in Germany four times in a row
• Europe-wide success: Current Opel/Vauxhall Corsa also tops registrations in the UK and Greece
• Recipe for success: Flexible, agile, ultra-modern and with a wide range of drive systems from battery-electric and hybrid to efficient combustion engines

Opel Corsa continues to go from strength to strength. Opel's small car bestseller is a perennial favourite which is loved by customers and experts alike. Now Opel and the Corsa are celebrating the next major milestone: Since the launch of the current generation F in 2019, more than one million Corsa have left the production halls at the Zaragoza plant in Spain and made their way to customers. And demand also increased in the first quarter of 2025: the number of new registrations in Europe (E29) rose by 18 per cent compared to the previous quarter. Since the premiere of the first Opel Corsa in 1982, around 15 million units have been sold worldwide.

“Our Corsa is an absolute bestseller. One million Corsa of the current generation show that customers really love our small car. With its fresh design, affordable top technologies and high flexibility packed in compact dimensions, it appeals to the most diverse groups of customers. This unique combination makes it a fundamental guarantee for success in our portfolio,” said Florian Huettl, CEO Opel & Vauxhall and Managing Director Stellantis Germany.

Its great success is also reflected in other figures: According to registration statistics from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), the current Corsa has been Germany's best-selling small car in each of the past four years. It was also the top-selling car in its segment in the UK for three years in a row (2021 to 2023). In these two important markets, the Corsa once again led the B segment in the first quarter of 2025. From January to March 2025, the popular small car also made it into the top three in its segment in further countries such as Croatia, the Netherlands, Norway and Slovenia. And in Greece, the Corsa was even the best-selling passenger car in the overall market in 2023. Numerous awards from public and experts such as the ‘Best in Class’ Award 2025 for the Opel Corsa Electric as ‘Best Electric City Vehicle’ also pave its way.

Formula for success: Continuous development of flexible small car

There are multiple reasons for the ongoing success: The current Opel Corsa generation impresses with its characteristic design including the Opel Vizor front, has space for up to five people and offers affordable top technologies such as the adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux Matrix light making journeys relaxing and safe. Customers also have an extremely wide selection of drive options, ranging from two battery-electric variants to modern hybrids with 48-volt technology and efficient combustion engines. Thus, Opel Corsa offers the right drivetrain for almost every usage profile and need.

Furthermore, Opel is continuously developing its small car, making it even more attractive and suitable for everyday use for customers. Take Opel Corsa Electric, for example: With its 51 kWh battery and an output of 115 kW (156 hp) it now enables a locally emissions-free range of up to 429 kilometres (WLTP 2) – around 6% or up to 24 kilometres more than before. Best of all, customers can enjoy the extended range without facing any additional costs. And as special edition Opel Corsa YES the small car bestseller becomes an extremely colourful head-turner which is also available with battery-electric drive. All of this makes the latest Opel Corsa generation a firm favourite with the customers which will continue its success story in the future.

[1] A vehicle's values not only depend on the vehicle's efficient use of fuel and energy, but are also influenced by driving behaviour and other non-technical factors.

[2] Range determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range can vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular on personal driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning and thermal preconditioning.

Contract Extended: Florian Huettl to remain CEO of Opel and Vauxhall for Three More Years

Florian Huettl will remain CEO of Opel/Vauxhall. The supervisory board of Opel Automobile GmbH has extended the 48-year-old's contract by another three years. Florian Huettl has been at the helm of the Opel and Vauxhall brands since June 2022 and has also led Stellantis' activities in Germany since December 2024.

"Over the past three years at the helm of Opel/Vauxhall, Florian Huettl has demonstrated that he can consistently position the traditional brands for the future, even in challenging times. He is a proven industry expert with outstanding leadership skills and experience in the international market environment. We are convinced that Florian will successfully shape the further development of Opel, Vauxhall and the German Stellantis organisation," said Xavier Chéreau, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Opel Automobile GmbH and Chief Human Resources, ESG, ICT & Heritage Officer.

Opel CEO Florian Huettl takes additional responsibility as Managing Director of Stellantis Germany

• New combined role aims at overall optimisation business on the German market, profitable growth and strengthening customer orientation for all brands

In addition to his position as CEO of Opel and Vauxhall, Florian Huettl will also be responsible for Stellantis' activities in Germany with immediate effect. This bundling of responsibilities will increase efficiency and support profitable growth in times of comprehensive industry transformation.

“We want to strengthen our organisation in Germany through targeted management and a focus on partnership-based collaboration inside and outside the company. We are therefore pleased that Florian Huettl will be taking over the management of Stellantis’ German business in addition to his role as Opel CEO,” said Jean-Philippe Imparato, COO Enlarged Europe and CEO Stellantis Pro One.

“I am very much looking forward to actively and collaboratively managing the German market for Opel and all other Stellantis brands from now on and to further sustainably expand the Stellantis market position. Our clear goal is to work together with our partners to get even closer to our customers and get them excited about the attractive brand portfolios,” said Florian Huettl.

Florian Huettl will succeed Lars Bilalkowski in this role. “We would like to thank Lars Bialkowski for his work over the last few years, which has significantly influenced the success of Stellantis in Germany, and we wish him all the best for the future,” said Jean-Philippe Imparato.

Vauxhall Astra Crowned ‘Best Family Car’ at 2024 Business Car Awards

• Vauxhall wins two awards at the 2024 Business Car Awards
• Vauxhall Astra named ‘Best Family Car’ for the third year running
• Vauxhall also wins the ‘Best Fleet Website’ award for the second time
• Judges praised the Astra’s eye-catching design, low running costs and high equipment levels
• Available as the fully electric Astra Electric with a range of up to 258 miles (WLTP)
• By the end of 2024, all Vauxhall cars and vans will be available with a fully electric version

Vauxhall Astra has been named ‘Best Family Car’ at the 2024 Business Car Awards, for the third year in a row. Vauxhall was also awarded with the ‘Best Fleet Website’ prize at the ceremony held in London last night.

The annual Business Car Awards recognise and reward excellence in the automotive fleet sector, highlighting innovation and expertise amongst suppliers and fleet operators. The Vauxhall Astra was once again praised by judges for its low running costs and eye-catching design.

Available as a hatch or Sports Tourer estate, with petrol, plug-in hybrid and fully electric options, the Astra caters for a wide variety of needs. With zero-emissions-in-use, the Astra Electric qualifies for a Benefit-in-Kind rate of just 2% (2024/25), making it particularly well suited to both fleet and business users. The Astra Sports Tourer Electric is one of the few all-electric estate cars available on the market, providing greater choice and practicality to customers and fleet operators.

Martyn Collins, Editor, Business Car, said: “For the third year in a row, Vauxhall’s Astra is again our favourite family car. Not many rivals can offer the version and body style options of the Astra. Its design remains eye-catching and attractive, with low running costs, and all are well-equipped.”

Vauxhall’s website was praised for its vibrant design and clarity for potential fleet customers, making it simple and accessible for decision makers wanting to find out more about how the brand can meet their needs.

Martyn Collins commented: “Vauxhall’s bright website design was praised by our editorial team. In our opinion, it’s the best all-round website, as we felt it had an exceptional fleet focus. As such, it wins our Best Fleet Website accolade again for 2024.”

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “Vauxhall’s continued success at the Business Car Awards, with the Astra being named Best Family Car for the third year in a row, demonstrates that our model line-up is as appealing as ever. It’s also rewarding to see the quality of our website recognised by the judges once again. Whether it’s fleet or private buyers, Vauxhall is committed to driving Britain towards an electric future and supporting those who want to make the switch.”

By the end of this year, Vauxhall will offer a fully electric version of every car and van in its line-up. Vauxhall was the UK’s best-selling electric van manufacturer in 2023 and is the leading electric car brand year-to-date across retail and Motability channels combined.

Vauxhall celebrates 60 years of vehicle production at Ellesmere Port

• Stellantis’ Ellesmere Port plant is celebrating 60 years since first car rolled off production line
• Production started in June 1964 with Vauxhall Viva
• Ellesmere Port is UK’s first EV-only manufacturing plant and manufactures compact electric van for Vauxhall/Opel, Peugeot, Citroen & Fiat Pro
• Approaching 6m vehicles built at Ellesmere Port since 1964
• Electric van production to begin at Stellantis Luton plant from 2025

Stellantis is celebrating 60 years of vehicle manufacturing at its Ellesmere Port plant, marking six decades since the first car, a Vauxhall Viva, rolled off the production line on 1 June 1964.

Ellesmere Port was constructed in 1962 and opened in 1964 producing the Vauxhall Viva. Since then, it has produced celebrated models such as the Vauxhall Chevette and, since 1980, seven generations of the hugely popular Vauxhall Astra. During its lifetime, the plant produced more than a million units of the Viva, more than a quarter of a million Vauxhall Chevettes, and more than 4.1 million Vauxhall Astras.

Stellantis Ellesmere Port plant is now a key part of British electric vehicle (EV) production, being the UK’s first EV-only volume manufacturing plant following a £100m investment by Stellantis as part of the company’s Dare Forward 2030 commitment to become carbon neutral by 2038. Production of EVs began at Ellesmere Port in September last year, with Vauxhall/Opel Combo Electric, Citroën ë-Berlingo, Fiat e-Doblò and Peugeot E-Partner being produced there.

In 1970 Ellesmere Port occupied more than 350,000m2, but has since undergone several key changes, including the addition of a battery assembly shop, upgraded General Assembly and relocation of the bodyshop. This has contributed to a 60% reduction of the total site area for improved energy efficiency and productivity. At 118,000m2, the entire plant is now a similar size to the previous bodyshop.

Ellesmere Port’s transition to electric-only production continues Vauxhall’s tradition of building vehicles in the UK, which started at the company’s Luton plant in 1905, having transferred from Vauxhall in London where it started in 1903. From next year, Luton will begin producing medium electric vans for Vauxhall, Opel, Citroën, Peugeot and Fiat Professional.

Present at the 60th anniversary celebrations for plant staff and local dignitaries was Keith Tabiner, who was on the production line at Ellesmere Port in 1964 when the first Vauxhall Viva was produced. His three sons, Mark, Mike and Phil, also work at Ellesmere Port today, meaning that the Tabiner family has a combined 152 years of employment at the plant.  The plant has enjoyed a high level of such loyalty, dedication and length of service from many employees across the decades.

Keith Tabiner said: “Having witnessed the first Vauxhall Viva roll of the production line in 1964, and worked at Ellesmere Port for a total of 40 years, it’s a pleasure to be back and see the plant going from strength to strength making the electric vehicles of the future. I’ve always driven Vauxhalls and with three of my sons following in my footsteps and working at the plant today, everything we have is thanks to Ellesmere Port.”

Diane Miller, Ellesmere Port Plant Director, said: “We are excited to mark such an impressive milestone, celebrating production that began sixty years ago with the Viva, and now continues into the future with electric vans from Fiat, Citroën, Peugeot, Opel and Vauxhall. For six decades, Ellesmere Port has been a central pillar of the local area, and whose people have continually taken great pride in their work at the plant to provide millions of vehicles for the UK and beyond and now continue to do so in the transition to a more sustainable future.”

Maria Grazia Davino, Group Managing Director, Stellantis UK, remarked: “It is gratifying to celebrate six decades of vehicle production at Ellesmere Port, which continues to produce the latest generation of electric vans. Stellantis is the only OEM producing vans, including electric vans, in volume in the UK, and I would like to share my congratulations to the employees at the plant, who continue to work incredibly hard to produce the vehicles that will help to electrify businesses across the UK and in the more than 20 countries to which we export electric vans.”

Vauxhall Corsa is the best-selling supermini in the United Kingdom

• Vauxhall is the third-best selling brand in the overall car and van market so far in 2024
• Vauxhall Corsa is the UK’s best-selling supermini so far this year
• Vauxhall Mokka Electric is the UK’s best-selling small electric SUV
• Vauxhall is the third best-selling LCV manufacturer in the UK for March and year-to-date
• Vauxhall’s electric car market share has increased to 4.67%, with the brand’s overall car sales and market share also up year-to-date
• From this year, all Vauxhall cars and vans will be available with a fully electric version

Vauxhall continued its strong UK sales performance in March, ending Q1 as the UK’s third-best selling brand in the overall car and van market, according the latest new vehicle registration figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Leading the way as the UK’s best-selling supermini so far in 2024 is the Vauxhall Corsa, while in March Vauxhall Corsa Electric topped the electric supermini segment. Vauxhall Mokka Electric is the best-selling small electric SUV so far this year with 2,122 registered. Vauxhall’s passenger car market share in March has increased by almost 0.7 percentage points compared to last year, rising to 4.89%. This represents 15,553 car registrations in the month. 

In the first three months of the year, Vauxhall’s share of the electric car market increased by almost half a percentage point to 4.67%, while in the overall car market its market share stands at 5.25% year-to-date - up from 4.62% last year. So far in 2024, the brand has sold 28,664 cars – 5,810 more than this time last year.

Vauxhall is the UK’s third best-selling LCV manufacturer both year-to-date and month-to-date, with 4,364 vans registered in March. This gives it a market share for the month of 8.08% (up from 7.84%), while its LCV market share year-to-date is 9.01% (up from 8.72% last year).

In total, 37,404 Vauxhall cars and vans were registered in the first quarter of 2024, which saw Vauxhall’s overall market share increase by 0.57 percentage points compared to last year, rising to 5.82%. This reflects the success of the wider Stellantis group, which has a combined car and van market share of 14.64% year-to-date, up from 13.58%.

 James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “It’s been a successful first quarter for Vauxhall, with the Corsa once again topping the supermini segment and Vauxhall Mokka Electric leading the way as the UK’s most popular small electric SUV. Our continued sales growth shows that our commitment to offering practical and attainable vehicles is proving popular with customers, especially for those looking to transition to an electric vehicle.”

Vauxhall Astra wins ‘Best Medium Car’ at 2024 Business Motoring Awards

• Vauxhall Astra named ‘Best Medium Car’ at 2024 Business Motoring Awards.
• Judges praised Astra’s driving experience, low ownership costs and build quality
• Available as fully electric Vauxhall Astra Electric with a range of up to 258 miles (WLTP)
• Customers can also choose from petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains

Vauxhall Astra has been named ‘Best Medium Car’ at 2024 Business Motoring Awards.

Business Motoring Awards are now in their tenth year and continue to provide a valuable spotlight on the market leaders in SME sector. Awards are judged by an independent panel of automotive experts and members of  Business Motoring editorial team, who praised Astra’s driving experience, low ownership costs and impressive build quality.

Available as a hatch or Sports Tourer estate, with petrol, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric variants, Vauxhall Astra caters for a wide range of drivers. With zero-emissions-in-use, the Astra Electric qualifies for a Benefit-in-Kind rate of just 2% (2023/24), making it particularly well suited to both fleet and business users.

Chris Wright, Editor, Business Motoring, said: “Latest Astra is a great to drive as ever but more importantly, brand has worked hard to bring down ownership costs so car is now even more accessible. Build quality is also excellent and whole package feels well thought out.”

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “Vauxhall’s success at Business Motoring Awards is proof that Astra is a more attractive proposition than ever. With low running costs and a wide range of powertrains to choose from, including fully electric Astra Electric, Astra is an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes.”

Astra Electric is powered by Vauxhall’s next-generation 54kWh battery and a 156hp electric motor. It achieves impressive efficiency of 4.2 miles per kWh, providing up to 258 miles of range (WLTP). 

Vauxhall will offer a fully electric version of every model in its line-up by end of 2024.

Opel Corsa: Best-selling Car in Greece

• Popular choice: Segment share of 17.4% for best-selling small car
• New registrations doubled: Opel second most popular passenger car brand

Opel Corsa continues to remain popular with buyers across Europe. According to official data, supermini with Blitz was best-selling car overall in Greece in 2023. New registrations of over 5,800 gave Opel Corsa a total market share of 4.3 % and an impressive segment share of 17.4%  in the small car segment.

“Opel Corsa has always come with a convincing package of innovation and affordable state-of-the-art technology. This remains case even 40 years after nameplate was launched. Success reflects excellence of Opel, and we anticipate further impetus for Opel brand in Greece,” said Polychronis Syngelidis, President & CEO Opel Hellas.

Ongoing popularity of Corsa was main driver behind Opel’s commercial success in Greece in 2023. Brand with Blitz doubled its overall sales compared to previous year was second most popular passenger car brand with a market share of 7.7%.

Earlier this year, Opel already announced that Corsa has successfully defended its title as the most popular small car in Germany. According to official data published by the Federal Office for Motor Traffic (KBA), Opel Corsa was best-selling vehicle in B segment for the third time in a row in 2023.

Elsewhere, Vauxhall Corsa remains equally popular in United Kingdom where it was best-selling supermini for third year in a row, according to 2023 new car registration figures published by Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Since its premiere in 1982, well over 14.5 million units of the Corsa have been sold worldwide. Last year, Opel launched the new edition of the bestseller – with the characteristic Opel Vizor brand face, intuitive cockpit design, new IntelliLux LED Matrix Light and numerous other top technologies. In the auto motor und sport readers’ choice award “autonis”, Opel Corsa was named “Best New Design of 2023” in  “Small Car” category.

Opel Increases Global Sales by a Strong 15% in 2023

• High proportion of electric vehicles: Sales increase of 22% for electric vehicles
• Internationalisation strategy working: 62% increase outside of Europe
• Considerable light commercial vehicle growth: Sales up by 26% 
• Strong growth in the C-segment: Astra and Grandland sales up by 57% 

Opel grew significantly in 2023 with a sales increase of 15%. This is the highest percentage growth rate in more than 20 years. Global sales were up to around 670,000 vehicles giving the German manufacturer its highest registration numbers in four years.

Opel closed 2023 with a market share of around 5.3% on its home market of Germany. In the UK, Vauxhall recorded a market share of six percent. Opel is also very successful in Turkey with a market share of six percent.

“We can look back on a very strong year in 2023. Opel has grown considerably. We have made significant gains, particularly in electric vehicles, across the C-segment and light commercial vehicles. We were also able to significantly expand our international business. This is clear evidence that our strategy is working,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

High proportion of electric vehicles: Sales increase of  22% for electric vehicles

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) were extremely well received by customers. Around 90,000 BEVs sold represent a significant increase of 22 percent compared to previous year. This impressively demonstrates success of Opel’s electrification offensive.

Internationalisation strategy working: 62% increase outside of Europe

Opel grew strongly outside of EU 29 markets last year and increased sales by around 62% to a total of 101,000 vehicles. This corresponds to 15% of the brand’s total sales.

Considerable light commercial vehicle growth: Sales up by 26%

In total, Opel and Vauxhall were able to sell 125,000 light commercial vehicles worldwide, which corresponds to an increase of 26% compared to 2022. Brands secured a leading position among electric vans with around 17,000 units of Combo Electric, Vivaro Electric and Movano Electric sold on the European market (EU 29).

Strong growth in C-segment: Opel Astra and Grandland sales up by 57%

Opel also continued to grow in the highly competitive C-segment. Astra was able to double its European sales (EU 29) in 2023 with all drive versions. Overall, Opel recorded significant growth worldwide in the C‑segment. Compared to the previous year, the brand sold around 57% more units of Astra and Grandland.

Opel Corsa and Mokka continue to be successful across Europe

Corsa once again proved to be a bestseller last year. In company's two largest markets, Germany and  United Kingdom, it was most popular choice in B-segment. In Greece, Opel Corsa was even the best-selling car overall in country. In addition to leading way in Germany and United Kingdom, the Corsa Electric took second place in registration statistics in its segment in Italy, Netherlands, Portugal and Austria. Mokka Electric was most popular B-SUV in United Kingdom and finished second in Germany, Spain, Poland and Belgium.

Opel Corsa Best-selling Small Car in Germany in 2023

• Every fourth newly registered Opel Corsa already battery-electric
• Highest Opel Corsa registrations since 2016
• Vauxhall Corsa also most popular small car in the UK

Opel Corsa has successfully defended its title as the most popular small car in Germany. According to official data published by the Federal Office for Motor Traffic (KBA), the Corsa was the best-selling vehicle in the B segment for the third time in a row in 2023. Total new registrations of almost 54,000 ensured that the small car from Rüsselsheim took first place in its segment. This represents an increase of around 7 per cent compared to 2022 and also means that Corsa registrations reached their highest level since 2016. According to preliminary internal results every fourth newly registered Corsa was a battery-electric Opel Corsa Electric.

Elsewhere, Vauxhall Corsa remains equally popular in the UK where it was the best-selling supermini for the third year in a row, according to the 2023 new car registration figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). With 40,816 units sold, Corsa not only proved to be the most popular supermini on the market in 2023 but was also the country’s third best-selling car overall. It outsold the second best-selling model in the supermini segment by 55.5% (14,568 cars).

Since its premiere in 1982, well over 14.5 million units of the Corsa have been sold worldwide. Last year, Opel launched the new edition of the bestseller – with the characteristic Opel Vizor brand face, intuitive cockpit design, new IntelliLux LED Matrix Light and numerous other top technologies. In the auto motor und sport readers’ choice award “autonis”, Opel Corsa was named “Best New Design of 2023” in the “Small Car” category.

Patrick Dinger, the head of Opel in Germany said: “Our Corsa continues to lead the B segment and represents an important pillar of our car registrations in Germany. This shows, in these times of transformation, that we have the right offer for our customers in our Opel Corsa and Corsa Electric. This year we will continue our transition to becoming a purely electric brand. We will offer at least one battery-electric model in each carline over the course of the year. Opel Crossland successor and all-new Opel Grandland will also be available with pure electric drive.”

Vauxhall Corsa is the best-selling supermini in the United Kingdom

• Vauxhall Corsa is the UK’s best-selling supermini in November and year-to-date
• Vauxhall Corsa is the UK’s second best-selling car overall in November and the third best-selling car year-to-date
• Vauxhall Corsa Electric remains the best-selling electric supermini (Electric B-Hatch) this year
• Vauxhall Mokka Electric continues to lead sales in the compact electric crossover segment
• From 2024, all Vauxhall cars and vans will be available with a fully electric version

Vauxhall’s Corsa range continued its strong UK sales performance in November, topping the charts in two segments according to the latest new car registration figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Vauxhall Corsa was the best-selling supermini in November as well as year-to-date, whilst also being the UK’s second best-selling car overall in November. It sits third in the overall sales charts so far in 2023 with 37,826 units sold. Vauxhall Corsa Electric remains the best-selling electric supermini, with 3,016 sold year-to-date.  

Vauxhall Mokka Electric also sits at the top of the Small Electric SUV charts for 2023 with 6,854 registered. 

Vauxhall’s passenger car market share in November has increased by 1.26 percentage points compared to last year, rising to 5.88%. This represents 9,204 car registrations in the month and 94,423 year-to-date. 

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “With the arrival of the New Corsa, Vauxhall continues to lead the way in the supermini segment, while the continued popularity of  Vauxhall Corsa Electric and Mokka Electric demonstrates that Vauxhall is the brand people trust to make the switch to electric. We are committed to ensuring electric vehicles are accessible for everyone and are taking action through our Electric Streets of Britain initiative to progress the UK’s on-street charging infrastructure.”

Vauxhall wins ‘Best Family Car’ and ‘Best Fleet Website’ award at 2023 Business Car Awards

• Vauxhall takes home two awards at the 2023 Business Car Awards
• Vauxhall Astra named ‘Best Family Car’ for the second year running, while Vauxhall also wins the ‘Best Fleet Website’ award
• Judges praised Astra’s attractive design, low running costs and high equipment levels
• Astra available as a fully electric model with a range of up to 258 miles (WLTP)
• Vauxhall is committed to electrifying Britain and will be an electric-only brand by 2028

Vauxhall Astra has been named ‘Best Family Car’ at the 2023 Business Car Awards. Vauxhall also won ‘Best Fleet Website’ at the ceremony held in London last night.

Annual Business Car Awards recognise and reward excellence in the fleet market, highlighting the best cars for fleets across various categories. Vauxhall Astra received praise from judges for its low running costs and eye-catching design.

Available as a hatch or Sports Tourer estate, with petrol, plug-in hybrid and fully electric variants, Astra caters for a wide variety of needs. With zero-emissions-in-use, Astra Electric qualifies for a Benefit-in-Kind rate of just 2% (2023/24), making it particularly well suited to both fleet and business users. It will also be soon joined by Astra Sports Tourer Electric, furthering choice for Vauxhall customers who are looking to go electric.

Martyn Collins, Editor, Business Car, said: “With addition of more versions and body styles, Vauxhall has strengthened the Astra’s position. Hatch or estate, this Vauxhall’s design is eye-catching and attractive. PHEV and new EV models keep running costs low and all are well-equipped.”

Vauxhall’s website was praised for focusing on making it easy for fleet users and decision makers to learn about how Vauxhall can meet their needs.

Martyn Collins, Editor, Business Car, commented: “Vauxhall’s bright and clear website design was praised by our editorial team. However, it is the content, which is so much more considerate of fleets than any other top 10 OEM, that wins it our award.”

James Taylor, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “It is rewarding to see Vauxhall’s continued success at Business Car Awards, with Astra named Best Family Car for second year running. With new Astra Electric now on sale, it’s proof that Astra is a more attractive proposition than ever. It’s also pleasing to see quality of our fleet website recognised by judges. Whether it’s fleet or private buyers, Vauxhall is committed to making switch to electric as easy as possible as we lead the way in driving Britain towards an electric future.”

With the pending arrival of  Astra Sports Tourer Electric, Vauxhall will have a choice of six fully electric models across its passenger car range, in addition to being one of few brands to offer a fully electric model across its LCV line-up. From 2024, Vauxhall will offer a fully electric version across its entire range ahead of becoming an electric-only brand by 2028.