Vauxhall continues to lift GSi badge from the dead with new warm Corsa

JACK COOPER
Vauxhall are to continue resurrecting the GSi branding for their cars, with the now-confirmed Corsa GSi leading the charge for late 2018, following 2017's Insignia GSi.

The Corsa GSi will sit below the existing VXR model (pictured), and will face competition from cars such as the Fiesta ST-line and the Polo GT.

While the VXR has a sprightly 1.6l turbocharged four-banger producing over 200bhp, the GSi will make do with a turbo 1.4l producing something in the region of 150bhp. Expect 0-60 times somewhere in the range of eight to nine seconds, and a top speed in excess of 130mph.

So it's lively, but nothing too racy - exactly what Vauxhall's intentions were. They clarified that the GSi will not be replacing the VXR line, but will act as a less hardcore alternative. While the power is turned down from hot jalfrezi to mild korma, the bodywork is expected to remain sporty and aggressive.

Photo: User 'peester' via migweb.co.uk

The GSi badge was a staple of Vauxhall cars in the late 20th century, with a particular highlight being the 1987 Nova GSi. With around 100bhp, it was enough to bring the old tin can from 0-60 in nine seconds flat, and on to a top speed of 112mph. In an 80s supermini, that was more than enough.

The Corsa GSi will be priced below the VXR model, and will most likely sit between said VXR and the range-topping Elite models. Deliveries are expected later this year.