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Vauxhall Corsa-e vs Renault ZOE: verdict and specifications

The Renault ZOE outshines the Vauxhall Corsa-e in several key areas, but it’s a fairly close result

Both of these electric superminis make a lot of sense for a lot of people. They’re not meant for long trips, but if you can get over that and realise that most journeys are short, especially if you live in a city, then their ranges of up to 200 miles are plenty.

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The ZOE makes just a bit more sense overall, though. It’s more comfortable than the Corsa-e while also being more practical, and the interior is a nicer place to spend time. Yet the Corsa-e’s faster rapid charging capability and punchy motor mean it still has lots of appeal.

1st: Renault ZOE

The ZOE is punchy despite being less powerful than its rival, and it also has a longer range than the Corsa-e. The 50kW rapid charging compatibility is enough for most users, too. The Renault is also more spacious than the Vauxhall, with a better-quality interior, a longer warranty and slightly better infotainment – so it’s the winner here and one of the best EV superminis around.

2nd: Vauxhall Corsa-e

The Vauxhall’s lower-quality cabin, smaller boot and more cramped rear seats let it down somewhat, but in most other areas it’s good. The 100kW rapid charging is a big bonus as it’ll reduce time spent waiting around, and it has enough range for daily use. It’s agile, nippy and quite fun to drive as well, so it’s worth a look if you’re after a small EV.

Specifications

        Renault ZOE i GT Line R135 ZE 50 Rapid Charge       Vauxhall Corsa-e Elite Nav 7.4kW   
On-the-road price£30,995£30,310
MotorSingle electric motorSingle electric motor
TransmissionSingle-speed auto, front-wheel driveSingle-speed auto, front-wheel drive
Battery capacity (total / usable)55 / 52 kWh50 / 45 kWh
Power / torque133bhp / 245Nm134bhp / 260Nm
0-30 / 0-62mph3.6 / 9.5 sec2.8 / 8.1 secs
Top speed87mph93mph
100% charge cost at 14p/kWh£7.92£7.20
Charging capability2.3 / 7.4 / 22 / 50kW7.4 / 22 / 50 / 100kW
Charge time34h 30min / 9h 25min / 3h / 1h 10min7h 30min / 5h / 45min / 30min
Official electric range238 miles209 miles
On-test electric range203 miles171 miles
Road tax / BiK rate £0 / 0%£0 / 0%
Length / height / width / wheelbase4,087 / 1,562 / 1,787mm / 2,588mm4,060 / 1,433 / 1,765mm / 2,538mm
Boot capacity (seats up/down)338 / 1,225 litres267 / 1,076 litres
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Richard is editor of DrivingElectric, as well as sister site Carbuyer.co.uk, and a regular contributor to Auto Express. An electric and hybrid car advocate, he spent more than five years working on the news and reviews desk at Auto Express and has driven almost every new car currently on sale.

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