Vauxhall has revealed the GSi nameplate will return to the Corsa this year, reviving the performance-focused option not seen on the car for a quarter of a century.
Available to order later in 2018, the Corsa GSi will sit below the VXR hot hatch in the model’s line-up, offering customers a driver-focused car. Vauxhall hasn’t yet to announce what will be powering the GSi but expect it to use a smaller engine than the 1.6-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder producing 202bhp in the VXR.
What it does get from the most extreme version of the hatch is a refined chassis, suspension and brakes — complete with red brake calipers. The firm says this results in “exceptional levels of grip in wet and dry conditions”.
Separating the GSi from other variants in the Corsa range is a sportier look. Large air intakes on the bumper and bonnet dominate the front of the car, while deep sill extensions run along the side. At the back of the car, there’s the addition of a spoiler to generate downforce, while a single chrome exhaust pipe and 18-inch alloy wheels complete the look.
As for the cabin, Recaro bucket seats and a sports steering wheel feature — both trimmed in leather — along with aluminium pedals. It’ll also come with Vauxhall’s IntelliLink infotainment system.
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Although the GSi nameplate recently returned to a Vauxhall model for the first time since 2002 with the launch of the Insignia GSi this month, it’s been even longer since the moniker was last used on a Corsa.
In 1993, Vauxhall introduced the only Corsa GSi to date. That car used a 1.6-litre engine, developing 105bhp, taking it from 0-60mph in 9.2 seconds and on to a 121mph top speed.
No word on pricing or exact availability yet for the new Vauxhall Corsa GSi, but expect it to be more affordable than the VXR’s £18,995 price tag.
