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A new Corsa range is set to arrive in April, with significant gains in economy. On average the new Corsas will be 13mpg more economical, and all models except the VXR will be able to better 50mpg and emit less than 125g/km of CO2.

But it's not just about economy; the revised Corsa should also be more fun to drive. Significant suspension changes should improve handling and ride quality. The front springs are softer, while the anti-roll bar is now thicker and fitted with new bushes. The dampers have been retuned and the ESP has been tweaked too.

For the best economy drivers will want the 94bhp diesel, which should average 76.3mpg. The 1-litre petrol has gained 5bhp (now 64bhp) and now emits only 117g/km, dropping its tax cost from £120 to £35 (2009 prices).

The 1.2-litre petrol is now 84bhp, while the 1.4-litre has 99bhp and achieves 51.4mpg. There's also a revised 74bhp 1.3CDTi emitting 114g/km of CO2 and the 1.7CDTi now has 128bhp. All cars get a gearshift indicator, to suggest when to change gear for best economy.

The SE, SXi and SRi get cruise control and an on-board computer as standard. The SRi (which is now cheaper) gets revised suspension, air conditioning, 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels and a VXR styling kit. The SE is also the first supermini with a heated leather steering wheel and it also gets heated front seats.

Prices start from £10,285 for the 1-litre Ecoflex, while the range-topping VXR costs £17,155.

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