Aggressive looks and warm-hatch performance is the order of the day here; the SRi badge returns to the Corsa.

The combination of muscular styling (matching its more powerful sibling) and very useful performance will be welcomed by those put off by higher insurance premiums demanded for the VXR model.

A choice of two engines will be available: a detuned VXR engine producing 148bhp will provide the petrol option, while those who value economy above performance can choose a turbodiesel, which produces a still useful 123bhp.

The 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol unit is likely to offer excellent flexibility with a solid kick from low revs. The dash to 60mph will be despatched in 7.6 seconds, suggesting that performance will be 'warmer' than most of its rivals. The petrol-fuelled model is capable of achieving the now expected 130mph mark.

The turbodiesel is predictably not quite as fast on paper, with 0-60mph in 9.3 seconds, but Vauxhall claims superb economy of 58.9mpg from the 1.7-litre CDTi unit. Even factoring in the usual optimism of the Combined Cycle fuel economy figures, this will still be a terrifically frugal little car.

Unlike the VXR, the SRi will be available with three or five doors. Both should handle similarly to the VXR, the SRi being lower than the standard car by 18mm at the front and 15mm at the rear. Both versions feature ESP and electronically adjustable steering, which alters the weighting of the helm.

To complement the exterior design, the interior will be decorated with various bits of sporty trim similar to the VXR model, including alloy pedals, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and red-detailed sports seats.

Pricing for the SRi will be confirmed later this month, however, expect both versions to hover around the £14,000 area. At this price the SRi badge will be a popular choice, particularly among twenty-somethings who are taken with the idea of good performance and funky looks.

The first cars will arrive at retailers in September.

Richard Tanner - 25 Jun 2007