THE Vauxhall Corsa is now available with a 48-volt hybrid power system which offers improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to equivalent petrol models.

Powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine specially developed for hybridisation and available in two states of tune producing either 100 or 136ps, the new Corsa Hybrid is prices from £22,890.

The new hybrid powertrain features a lithium-ion battery with a useable capacity of 432Wh, which is recharged automatically.

The engine is coupled to a new electrified six-speed dual clutch automatic transmission that has also been designed specifically for hybrid applications. The battery is installed under the front left seat to ensure no compromise on boot space.

Compared to the similar non-electrified Corsa 1.2 (100hp) with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the new 100hp Corsa Hybrid offers a reduction in fuel consumption of approximately 20 per cent with best overall economy rated at 62.8mpg and emissions of 102g/km.

The electric motor allows the new Corsa Hybrid to be driven short distances on electric power alone under low torque requirements such as when manoeuvring or under 18mph in city traffic.

It also assists the petrol engine under acceleration and the hybrid has a 0-62mph time of 10.7 seconds for the 100ps powertrain and 8.6 seconds for the 136ps set up - both 0.1 seconds quicker than the equivalent petrol models.

The Corsa Hybrid is available in Design, GS and Ultimate specifications with the GS models priced from £25,270 and Ultimate versions from £29,020.