Opel recently launched the Astra GSe, which incidentally is the first model in the new line of electrified performance cars from Opel.
The model will be sold under the GSe sub-brand, taken from the GSE badge featured on the performance-oriented versions of the Opel Commodore and Monza in the 1970s and 80s. The “E” on the former GSE denoted “einspritzung,” German for “injection,” but now the “e” on the GSE stands for “electrified performance.”
The Astra GSe is a plug-in hybrid model, with a powertrain consisting of a 1.6-liter turbo-4 internal combustion engine and two electric motors producing 221 hp of peak power and 265 lb-ft of torque. The two electric motors are powered by a 12.4-kwh battery.
Although it gets the same powertrain as the standard Opel Astra, the GSe gets a sport-tuned chassis. The main modifications to the chassis consist of a new suspension, adjustable Koni dampers, 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels, a recalibrated steering wheel and an electronic stability control system.
In addition to the new wheels, the Astra GSe also gets some visual changes, such as the front end which gets the latest design. In the interior, the Astra GSe gets sports seats from Alcantara material.
Opel presents the Astra GSe in two variants, namely the regular Hatchback and the Station Wagon Sports Tourer. Opel Astra GSe is rumored to be sold between the end of 2022 or early 2023. Opel itself has not announced the price tag for the two Astra GSe variants.
