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.

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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