Vauxhall Unveils 800 bhp Electric Corsa Concept

As part of the Vision Gran Turismo campaign, automotive marques like Mercedes, Mazda, Infiniti, etc., have given us several radically styled, striking concept models. And the latest, most audacious interpretation of its own past, now showcasing its future direction for its performance vehicle department, is Vauxhall with its Vision Gran Turismo (VGT) concept vehicle, the Corsa GSE VGT. This isn't the sensible, suburban Vauxhall of old; this is an 800 bhp manifesto written in pearl white paint and screaming yellow accents.

The physical concept is slated to debut at Munich's IAA Mobility on September 8, and it will be available in phygital form later this year on Gran Turismo 7 on both PS4 and PS5. “The Vauxhall Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo takes the GSE sub-brand to the next level," said Steve Catlin, Vauxhall's Managing Director. "Taking the iconic Corsa nameplate and combining it with GSE high-performance engineering results in a breathtaking concept."

Measuring 4,190 mm long, 1,870 mm wide, and just 1,400 mm tall with a 2,650 mm wheelbase, the GSE maintains the standard Corsa's essential footprint whilst adopting a dramatically more aggressive stance. The 'Bold and Pure' design philosophy manifests through intersecting flat planes, with the 'New Compass' lighting signature, creating crosshair-style LED arrangements, further helping keep its sharp stance, subtle yet very vivid. 

The concept incorporates sophisticated aerodynamic solutions, including an active rear spoiler and diffuser system. The latter has the potential to extend, increasing the car’s length and optimising the airflow, while the active spoiler doubles as an airbrake.  

Beneath the aggressive bodywork lies a dual electric motor setup producing a combined 800 bhp and 800 Nm. Each axle features a 476 bhp motor, with permanent all-wheel drive ensuring optimal traction and stability. The total setup is powered by an 82 kWh battery pack. 

Measuring 4,190 mm long, 1,870 mm wide, and 1,400 mm tall with a 2,650 mm wheelbase, the concept maintains the standard Corsa's footprint while adopting a dramatically lower and wider stance. Thanks to extensive use of advanced materials, the Corse GSE VGT tips the scales at just 1,170 kg. 

Inside, the minimalist racing environment centres on a suspended sport seat with integrated six-point harnesses and roll cage protection. Advanced sensor technology communicates through illuminated dashboard fabrics – a technique Vauxhall calls 'painting with light' – alerting drivers to approaching vehicles or blind-spot intrusions.

This isn't merely automotive theatre. The GSE Vision Gran Turismo previews the resurrected GSE sub-brand, now reinterpreted as 'Grand Sport Electric' following the launch of the Mokka GSE.