Vauxhall has reintroduced the Corsa as a hot hatch, but this time it is fully electric. The new Corsa GSE, priced at £34,495 (or £32,995 with the government’s £1,500 Electric Car Grant), is both quicker and cheaper than its closest rivals.
With 277bhp, it accelerates from 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds, outperforming the Volkswagen Golf GTI’s 5.9 seconds. It also undercuts the Golf GTI by around £9,000.
The Corsa GSE marks Vauxhall’s return to the hot-hatch market after a six-year absence, following the discontinuation of the Corsa VXR in 2018. Vauxhall describes the GSE as a modern interpretation of its sporty heritage, drawing inspiration from models like the Nova GTE and Nova GSi.
Design elements include 1980s-style alloy wheels, tartan-trimmed bucket seats, and brightly colored seatbelts. Exterior modifications are relatively subtle, featuring wider wheelarch trims, redesigned bumpers, and a larger rear spoiler.
The Corsa GSE shares its electric motor with the Abarth 600e and Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce but incorporates additional performance enhancements. These include a mechanical limited-slip differential, lowered suspension with stiffer springs, and retuned steering and brakes.
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Despite its focus on performance, the Corsa GSE retains practicality. It offers a 232-mile range and includes standard features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and keyless entry. Orders open in September, with deliveries expected in the UK during the winter.
While the electric Corsa GSE represents a significant shift from its VXR predecessor, its combination of performance, chassis upgrades, and competitive pricing positions
The Corsa GSE’s pricing strategy is particularly notable, as
The use of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and Alcon front brakes demonstrates Vauxhall’s commitment to delivering a genuine hot-hatch experience. These components are typically found on more expensive performance cars, indicating that the Corsa GSE is not just a marketing exercise but a serious performance vehicle.
