Vauxhall has officially entered the hot hatch arena once again, offering a first look at the high-performance Corsa GSE.
Debuting at the Paris Motor Show in October ahead of sales opening, the most powerful production Corsa of all time revives the tradition of sporty Vauxhall superminis, including the Nova GTE, Nova GSi, Corsa GSi and Corsa VXR, for a new electric generation.
The latest addition to the brand’s new pure electric-only GSE line-up, the all-electric hot hatch builds on the Mokka GSE. With 281hp, 345Nm of torque and a weight of just 1,554kg, the new model will offer just as much electric power and performance as the rally-inspired Mokka GSE while overtaking it as the fastest accelerating Vauxhall production model on sale, thanks to a 0-62mph time of 5.5 seconds.
Top speed is 112mph and Corsa GSE drivers can choose from three different driving modes. Sport mode calls up full power with its special racetrack-optimised calibration. In Normal mode, the Corsa GSE delivers 231hp while in Eco, all settings are reduced for the greatest possible efficiency; here, the top speed is 93mph.
The electric powertrain features a 54kWh lithium-ion battery (51kWh usable capacity), with a revised battery temperature management system to ensure the Corsa GSE maintains peak performance.
Vauxhall also promises exceptional handling stability and direct feedback for the front-wheel-drive Corsa GSE, which comes with a Torsen multi-plate limited-slip differential and a lowered sports chassis with specifically designed axles, stabilisers, and hydraulic shock absorbers. It also gets GSE-optimised steering and pedal tuning, along with four-piston performance brakes.
Hot hatch design features include a GSE-specific front and rear, 18-inch wheels, Alcon high-performance brake system, performance seats, digital displays with performance data and more.
Technology and comfort features range from heated seats and steering wheel to the 180-degree reversing camera and the keyless entry & start system. The Corsa GSE is also equipped with a bidirectional onboard charger (V2L), which can be used to supply external devices, such as e-bikes, with energy directly from the vehicle’s battery.
Eurig Druce, Vauxhall managing director, said: “Building on the blueprint set by the rally-inspired Mokka GSE, the new Corsa GSE combines exhilarating performance with everyday accessibility, proving that electric cars can be emotional, exciting and great to drive. From its unmistakable GSE design to its class-leading acceleration, Corsa GSE proudly carries forward the legacy of models such as Nova GTE, Corsa GSi and Corsa VXR – reimagined for a new electric generation.”
