Vauxhall Corsa GSE: The Electric Hot Hatch Explained
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Vauxhall has brought back the hot hatch for the electric age, with 277bhp and a chassis built for B-roads.
- 01The Corsa GSE is Vauxhall's electric hot hatch, with 277bhp and 345Nm of torque.
- 02A limited-slip differential, quicker steering and Alcon brakes sharpen the handling.
- 03On sale now, with up to 232 miles of range and first deliveries this winter.
The GSE badge marks Vauxhall's performance models, and now it's arrived on the Corsa to create an electric hot hatch.
It takes the standard Corsa Electric and adds more power, sharper handling and a look that nods to Vauxhall's hot hatch past, including the much-loved Nova GTE.
How fast is it?
A single front-mounted electric motor produces 277bhp and 345Nm of torque. That's enough for 0 to 62mph in 5.5 seconds, with top speed limited to 112mph.
Power goes to the front wheels through a Torsen limited-slip differential, which helps the car put its power down cleanly out of corners rather than spinning a wheel.
Built to handle
Vauxhall hasn't just turned up the power. The GSE gets quicker steering, stiffer springs, bespoke dampers with hydraulic bump stops and a stiffer rear anti-roll bar. Bigger Alcon four-piston brakes sit at the front.
Early reviews say the work has paid off. Testers have called it properly entertaining to drive, though the firmer suspension means the ride is harder than in the standard Corsa.
Hot hatch looks
New front and rear bumpers, wider wheel arches and a larger tailgate spoiler set the GSE apart from the standard Corsa. The 18-inch three-spoke alloy wheels are a clear nod to the Nova GTE.
Range and charging
The GSE uses the same 54kWh battery as the Corsa Electric (51kWh usable). Range is up to 220 miles, rising to up to 232 miles with optional Hankook tyres.
As with any performance car, you'll see less range if you make the most of the power.
Inside the GSE
Heavily bolstered sports seats are trimmed in a check cloth inspired by the Nova GTE, and there's a heated Alcantara steering wheel and yellow seatbelts. Otherwise, it's familiar Corsa, including a useful 309-litre boot.
Specifications and dates are based on manufacturer information at the time of writing and may change. Bounce EV Limited is an Appointed Representative of Jurni Limited, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit broking activities. We are a credit broker, not a lender. Finance is subject to status.
