Vauxhall GSe e-performance sub-brand confirmed

Vauxhall has confirmed that it’s launching a new electrified performance car sub-brand, and in a dramatic change from the GSi moniker of old they’ll be sold under a new badge called… GSe.

Okay so not that different at all. And the news has been expected for a while now: in the summer Vauxhall design boss Mark Adams told TG that work was already underway on an electric Astra hot hatch.

The Astra Electric will arrive in 2023 and Vauxhall’s current range of BEVs will be renamed accordingly. So that’ll be Corsa Electric, Mokka Electric, Combo Life Electric and Vivaro Life Electric from now on.

If you can’t wait that long, Vauxhall is at pains to point out that the Astra hatch, Sports Tourer estate and Grandland SUV are already available as plug-in hybrids.

“GSe will offer sports handling and looks combined with the performance and responsibility of electrified powertrains,” said James Taylor, Vauxhall’s acting MD. “Sitting atop the newly simplified Vauxhall range, the GSe name is both a nod to GSi performance models from our heritage as well being a complement to the GS versions in our line-up today.

“Vauxhall is committed to electrifying Britain and GSe shows that performance and driving pleasure are set to be part of our electric future.”

There should be an electrified version of every Vauxhall on sale by 2024, and the Stellantis-owned brand is going 100 per cent battery-electric from 2028.

More details about GSe cars will follow ‘in due course’, it adds. What’s top of your wish list, folks?