Opel presents first plug-in hybrid GSe models
After Opel announced that the GSe acronym would return as a sub-brand for particularly dynamic electrified models a few days ago, the carmaker has now published the first images of the new Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe models with which the sub-brand will launch.
As the Astra GSe, the plug-in hybrid variants of the five-door and estate offer a system output of 165 kW and a maximum torque of 360 Newton metres. However, this is not even the most powerful version of the PHEV drive, there are still variants with two electric motors in other EMP2 models, which come from 220 and 265 kW system power.
If there are no changes in the PHEV drive, the GSe special features must come in other areas. In the Astra comparison, the GSe models are said to be designed to be “more agile and precise” than the previously introduced variants. According to Opel, the steering, suspension and brakes should react “immediately to any command from the driver”. The performance-oriented driving characteristics are also enhanced by a chassis that has been lowered by ten millimetres, which Opel installs in the new Astra GSe models.
There are some changes in the appearance, Opel speaks of a “GSe-specifically designed front” and GSe lettering on the tailgate. In addition, there are special 18-inch rims whose design is inspired by the Manta GSe. Inside, there are GSe performance seats in Alcantara, which are said to feature not only greater lateral support but also good ergonomics.
“The new Astra GSe and new Astra Sports Tourer GSe are the ideal cars for launching our dynamic new sub-brand, in full alignment with our strategy to become an all-electric brand by 2028,” says Opel CEO Florian Huettl.
As was previously announced, the Opel Astra will come to dealers as a purely battery-electric variant from 2023. It is not yet known whether the BEV Astra will also be available as a GSe.
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