Vauxhall has revealed the new Corsa GSE, a hot performance model with a high-power electric motor.
Yes, that’s right – it might be the latest in a long line of Corsa hot hatches, but there’s no petrol engine in sight. Makes sense – GSE stands for Grand Sport Electric.
A lot of the ingredients are carried over from the Mokka GSE. That means a front-mounted e-motor producing 280hp, and a Torsen limited-slip differential for improved handling and high-end Alcon brakes. The Corsa GSE also gets lowered sports suspension with new hydraulic shock absorbers, plus 18-inch alloy wheels. With firmer suspension and skinny sidewalls on the tyres, the Corsa GSE is unlikely to major on ride comfort.
Stuffing 280hp in something as small as the Corsa has dramatic results on the performance. This is the fastest-accelerating Vauxhall ever, hitting 0-62mph in just 5.5 seconds. That's as fast as a Toyota GR Yaris – one of the best hot hatches on sale. The Corsa's top speed is 112mph, or 93mph in eco mode.
The power is also held back if you're in eco or normal mode. The latter gives you 231hp; expect the eco mode to dial it back further.
To tell the GSE apart from lesser Corsas, it’ll feature exclusive alloy wheels, new bumpers, model-specific badges and a larger spoiler.
Inside, you’ll get suede-trimmed sports seats and performance data menus on the infotainment screen.
Somewhat interestingly, the Mokka GSE is available with two different tyre choices. One’s slightly more focused on efficiency, but the maximum range is still lower than the standard Mokka’s at 209 miles. That’ll probably be 220 miles for the Corsa GSE, but you’ll soon have to recharge if you drive the car as intended.
The Corsa GSE will be available to order later this year. Prices are likely to start at around £35,000 – or a bit less if it’s eligible for the electric car grant. Either way, it’s going to be quite steep for a Corsa.
There’ll be a new generation of Corsa launching in 2027, but the GSE will be based on the current model. You can think of it as a run-out special – or a toe in the water to see if anyone will buy a souped-up electric Corsa.
The Corsa GSE won’t be alone in the small electric hot hatch market. There’s the Alpine A290 GTS, Cupra Raval, Mini Cooper SE and the Peugeot e-208 GTI – the latter using the same mechanicals as the GSE.
Shop used Vauxhall Corsa electric cars for sale, or read our guide to the best electric hot hatchbacks.
