Opel launches the GSe line, heir to the GSi, for the sports versions of their electrified models. At this time, the plug-in hybrid versions of the Astra, Astra Sports Tourier and Grandland will carry this surname. They are models with remarkable power, in the case of the Astra with 225 CV and the Grandland with 300 CV.
Opel has tried to combine in these models what drivers are looking for lovers of sporty driving, which goes through a precise chassis and powerful engines.
On the outside, aesthetically they offer their own hallmarks that bring the image of the silhouettes closer to the sportiness they want to convey. The exclusive 18 and 19-inch alloy wheels stand out, as well as the characteristic GSe front bumper and rear diffuser.
Inside, they stand out high-performance sports seats exclusive to GSe models for both driver and front passenger. Technologically, it has a very complete offer in terms of safety in driving aids. The models can be reserved now with a price of 40,900 euros for the Opel Astra GSe and 57,600 euros for the Grandland GSe (RRP prices with VAT included).
With a system output of 165 kW/225 PS (1.6-litre four-cylinder engine delivers 133 kW/180 PS, electric motor contributes up to 81.2 kW/110 PS) and maximum torque of 360 Nm , the new Astra GSe clearly prevails in its class thanks to 1.2-1.1 l/100 km of fuel consumption according to WLTP1 and the 26-25 g/km of CO2 emissions; both combined. Energetic starts at traffic lights and a sporty top speed are guaranteed. From a standstill, the five-door sports hatchback accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds; it is possible to reach a maximum speed of up to 235 km/h (135 km/h in pure electric mode). And thanks to the 12.4 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Astra GSe can drive up to 64 kilometers without local emissions according to WLTP1 (EAER City according to WLTP1: 69-73 km).
The GSes, compared to the regular Astra, are designed to be even more agile and precise. The chassis has been lowered 10 millimeters. The steering, suspension and brakes respond more directly to any input from the driver. KONI FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) technology enables different damping characteristics for precise handling and high comfort depending on the situation.
This also applies to the new Grandland GSe. Opel’s SUV combines the power of a turbo gasoline engine with a displacement of 1.6 liters and 147 kW/200 CV and two electric motors, one on each axis. The electric motor on the front axle delivers up to 81.2 kW/110 PS, that on the rear axle up to 83 kW/113 PS. The result is a system output of up to 221 kW/300 PS (fuel consumption according to WLTP1: 1.2 l/100 km, CO2 emissions: 28-27 g/km, both values combined, weighted).
The Grandland GSe accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds and, like the Astra GSe, can reach a top speed of 235 km/h (135 km/h in pure electric mode). With its 14.6 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Grandland GSe drives up to 63 kilometers without local emissions according to WLTP1 (EAER City according to WLTP1: 80-81 km).
Design and equipment
Inspired in the Opel Manta GSe Fully electric, the Astra mounts 18-inch black/diamond-cut alloy wheels and 19-inch wheels on the Grandland GSe. Some hallmarks that can also be seen in the specific GSe front and the GSe letters on the tailgate, as well as a special rear diffuser.
Inside, exclusive sports cut seats They are upholstered in Alcantara fabric, some models that only the models of the Opel GSe family will carry. They ensure that the driver and front passenger always enjoy a firm hold during dynamic driving, while their spine benefits from the comfortable and back-friendly design of the seats. Heated seats and steering wheel ensure a pleasant atmosphere even on cold days.
The portfolio of state-of-the-art assistance systems covers the entire range that Opel currently offers for the Grandland and Astra. For example, the Astra GSe comes standard with the Intelli-Drive 1.0 system with Forward Collision Alert and Active Emergency Braking, Pedestrian and Drowsiness Detection, Lane Departure Alert and Traffic Sign Assist, Cross Traffic Alert and side blind spot and automatic speed assistant with stop function.
Front and rear parking light and the 360-degree Intelli-Vision camera assist the driver in manoeuvring. And GSe passengers stay well connected with the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible multimedia navigation system that includes a 10-inch color touchscreen and 10-inch driver information display (12-inch screen on Grandland GSe). . Compatible smartphones can also be easily charged via wireless charging in the center console.
For the rest, fans of the GSe who already eagerly await the Astra Sports Tourer GSe will have to have some patience. Opel will announce prices for the high-performance estate at a later date.
