Opel Astra GSe: the first electrified sports car from Opel is a plug-in hybrid

Opel has a plan: to become a 100% electric brand by 2028. But until that moment arrives, plug-in hybrid models are a perfect complement to battery-electric ones. Especially when it comes to not waiting any longer to launch the new GSe sub-brand, an acronym that already appears on the new Opel Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe.

Let’s recall that the GSe initials come from “Grand Sport Einspritzung”, previously used by Opel on models such as the Commodore GS/E or Monza GSE. Now, they have been revived with a different meaning: “Grand Sport Electric”. The idea is to combine driving pleasure and sportiness with zero local emissions. Something that, with these new versions, is achieved in part.

Maximum power of 225 CV, chassis with sporty tuning

The propulsion system of the Astra GSe is the one we already know from other models in the Stellantis group, such as the Peugeot 508 PHEV, for example. Opel already sells a plug-in hybrid version of the Astra with 180 CV, and the GSe is reserved for the most powerful variant of this powertrain, with a system power of 225 CV and a maximum torque of 360 Nm. For now there is no performance data, but the Peugeot 308 GT Hybrid, with this same engine, announces a top speed of 235 km/h and a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 7.5 seconds, which can serve as a reference.

With respect to the rest of the Astra range versions, the GSe, which will be offered with 5-door bodywork and Sports Tourer, feature a specific suspension tuning, which includes a bodywork height lowered by 10 mm, specific dampers with the FSD system that modifies the calibration according to the operating frequency, and a more sporty steering calibration, as well as a more sporty setting for the stability control operation, delaying its intervention.

In terms of design, the Astra GSe stand out for their 18-inch wheels inspired by the Manta GSe Concept, specific bumpers and the corresponding badges. Inside, the sport seats upholstered in Alcantara stand out.

Opel Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe – Image gallery