Just a few weeks after announcing its new GSe (Grand Sport Electric) sub-brand for its sports models, Opel unveiled the Astra GSe, which will be available in both five-door hatchback and Sports Tourer body styles. The sixth-generation Astra’s sportiest equipment to date features a plug-in hybrid powertrain and a GSe-specific chassis configuration and subtle styling changes.
In terms of styling, the highlight of the Astra GSe is the 18-inch alloy wheels, inspired by the Manta GSe concept. Another change is the black painted fins that visually connect the bumper intakes, and of course the GSe badging. Inside, we find a pair of GSE-branded AGR-certified bucket seats, upholstered in Alcantara and the standard Pure Panel digital cockpit with dual 10-inch screens.
The Astra GSe is equipped with a well-known PHEV powertrain from other Stellantis products, including the Peugeot 308, which produces a combined output of 222 hp (165 kW/225 hp) and 360 Nm (265.5 lb-ft) of torque. The turbocharged 1.6-litre PureTech petrol engine delivers 177 hp (132 kW/180 hp), with a single electric motor delivering a further 109 hp (81 kW/110 hp) and an eight-speed automatic gearbox that transfers power to the front axle sends. A similar setup was already fitted to the Astra, but with lower power.
The above figures are probably not enough to put the Astra GSe among modern hot hatches, but they easily classify it as a powerful hot hatch. More importantly, the GSe is blessed with a sportier chassis setup, which is the pinnacle of the new sub-brand’s ability to strike a balance between comfort and driving dynamics. Both the hatchback and Sports Tourer are lowered by 10mm compared to smaller variants, which are fitted with unique springs and oil-filled Koni FSD dampers. They also get recalibrated steering and different ESP settings.
Opel did not disclose performance figures for the Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe, but said acceleration and top speed will “match the best in their respective classes”. At the same time, the company suggests that the compact model will provide “superior stability when cornering, braking and driving at high speeds on the Autobahn” compared to direct rivals, probably referring to the slightly more powerful VW Golf GTE, Cupra. Leon eHybrid and Skoda Octavia RS iV of the VW Group.
Opel/Vauxhall did not disclose prices for the Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe, but we expect these to be the most expensive models in the Astra range. The automaker has pledged to become an electric-only brand by 2028, meaning future GSe models will likely be all-electric. Indeed, there are rumors of a more powerful all-electric hot hatch based on the upcoming Astra-e that could sit at the top of the model range in terms of performance.