Vauxhall is preparing to launch an all-electric performance variant of its Corsa, dubbed the GSE, positioned as a direct replacement for the iconic Corsa VXR. The new model, expected to arrive later this year, will deliver 276bhp to the front wheels, promising a 0-62mph time under six seconds.
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From Petrol Roar to Silent Speed
The shift from the previous VXR’s turbocharged petrol engine to an all-electric powertrain represents a significant change. While the old model was known for its aggressive exhaust note, the GSE will offer near-silent acceleration. The performance will be competitive: roughly 50bhp more than the Alpine A290 GTS, making it a serious contender in the hot hatch segment.
Performance Upgrades and Styling Tweaks
Beyond raw power, the Corsa GSE will feature substantial chassis improvements. These include stiffer suspension, upgraded brakes, and a limited-slip differential for enhanced handling. Exterior styling will also be distinctive, with unique alloy wheels and modified bumpers. The interior will offer sportier seats similar to those found in the larger Mokka GSE.
Range and Price: A Trade-Off
The increased performance comes at the cost of some range. The Corsa GSE, equipped with a 54kWh battery, is projected to deliver around 200 miles of range—approximately 180 miles in real-world conditions. Pricing is expected to start around £34,500, potentially lower with government incentives. This reflects the premium associated with the GSE sub-brand, which typically adds around £2,500 to the equivalent Corsa model.
Vauxhall’s Ambitions: Beyond Performance
The launch of the GSE sub-brand is part of a broader strategy by Vauxhall to regain market share in the UK. Currently ranked 11th in new-car sales, the company aims to climb back into the top three. To achieve this, Vauxhall plans to infuse more excitement into its entire lineup, with GSE-inspired styling and features filtering down to mainstream models.
“We need to add some further excitement and some emotion into the brand,” says Vauxhall managing director Steve Catlin. The GSE models are seen as key to that effort, providing a halo effect that elevates the brand’s image.
The company has acknowledged that initial GSE iterations (Grandland and Astra GSE) didn’t fully capture the intended brand spirit, but the new electric performance models are designed to correct that. The Corsa GSE, in particular, is expected to set the standard for future sporting variants, aligning more closely with the legacy of the VXR.
