Vauxhall has revealed its new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer GSe models, spearheading its new GSe electrified sub-brand.

The new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer models are the first Vauxhalls to get the new GSe badge

Due to open for orders later this year, the two new plug-in hybrids will deliver power of up to 225hp – up from the 180hp in the regular Astra Plug-in Hybrid-e – along with expected CO2 emissions of 25-26g/km and combined fuel consumption up to 256.8mpg. Details of the electric-only range are yet to be announced.

They’re the first Vauxhalls to get the new GSe badge, which was announced last week and stands for Grand Sport Electric. All GSe models combine sharper looks and handling with electrified powertrains, including plug-in hybrids and fully electric editions, supporting the brand’s plans to offer electrified versions of all its models by 2024.

Performance figures for the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer GSe have not been revealed yet but Vauxhall says they’ll match the best in their respective classes for 0-62mph time, acceleration and maximum speed.

Handling has also been upgraded from the regular models and the GSe versions get a dedicated chassis that is 10mm lower than before and said to deliver superior stability during cornering, under braking and at higher speed. The suspension dampers use Frequency Selective Damping, which enables different characteristics for suspension and body control, while the ESP settings are also exclusive to GSe models.

Design upgrades reveal new styling cues that will become signature themes for GSe models, such as 18-inch alloy wheels inspired by the Opel Manta GSe concept, a specific front bumper and fascia, GSe badging on the tailgate and exclusive Alcantara front sports seats certified by Germany’s AGR campaign for healthier backs.

James Taylor, acting managing director, Vauxhall, said: “Available with plug-in hybrid powertrains from launch, the all-new Astra GSe and All-new Astra Sports Tourer GSe are the ideal cars for launching our dynamic new sub-brand, offering sporty styling, enhanced driving performance and all the benefits of an electrified powertrain. As we work towards becoming an all-electric brand by 2028, our range-topping GSe models will showcase that electrified performance and driving pleasure can go hand-in-hand.”

Further specification details will be announced close to launch and customer deliveries start from early 2023.