Vauxhall Corsa GSE channels classic hot Nova in new images
Vauxhall has shared the first images of its new Corsa GSE, promising a defining moment for the badge.
Leaning heavily into the brand’s hot hatch heritage, the new Vauxhall Corsa GSE channels the spirit of cars such as the Nova GSi and Corsa VXR with its white paintwork, aggressive body kit and retro interior finish.
It also promises to set new performance standards for the badge with its punchy all-electric powertrain and bespoke chassis setup.
The new electric hot hatch is the most powerful Corsa ever, packing 277bhp, and the fastest production Vauxhall on sale. The Corsa GSE is also one of the very fastest cars ever to come from the brand. In fact, with a 0-62mph time of 5.5 seconds only the V8-powered Vauxhall Monaro and the “not-technically-a-Vauxhall” Lotus Carlton are faster than the new Corsa GSE.
The latest incarnation of Vauxhall’s hot supermini shares its technical underpinnings with the Mokka GSE, Abarth 600e, Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce and the upcoming Peugeot E-208 GTI. Its front-mounted motor produces 281bhp and 254lb ft of torque, with energy supplied by a 51kWh battery.
Sport mode unlocks all the power, while Normal delivers 228bhp and there’s an Eco mode for when you’ve been having too much fun and run the battery down.
Helping marshal all the power and torque is a proper mechanical Torsen limited-slip differential and four-piston Alcon performance brakes. The Corsa GSE sits on lowered suspension with bespoke axles, stabilisers, and shock absorbers, and gets GSE-specific tuning for the steering, brakes and throttle.
If its Stellantis stablemates are anything to go by, it should be a riot to drive.
While it’s not as radical as the Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept, the new Corsa GSE does get enhanced looks to stand out from the regular Corsa line-up. Sharper front and rear bumpers, wider wheel arches and gloss black air intakes contrasting with bright white paint are intended to give it a more aggressive presence. There are also three-spoke 18-inch alloys inspired by the Nova GSE’s 14-inch Ronal designs, and a black roof and spoiler.
There are further nods to the original Nova inside where new sports seats with integrated headrests are finished in a black, grey and yellow chequered material. The yellow theme continues in contrast stitching around the cabin, while Alcantara finish to the steering wheel and door cards emphasises the Corsa GSE’s sporty positioning.
The Vauxhall Corsa GSE will make its public debut at the Paris Motor Show in October, with more details expected then. However, given the price of other models using the same tech, we’d expect a starting price in the mid-£30,000s.
