Vauxhall has opened orders for the Astra Sports Tourer GSe, the electrified performance variant of the Astra Sports Tourer. Prices start from £43,250!
GSe stands for Grand Sport Electric and is the new performance sub-brand from Vauxhall. The GSe sub-brand aims to integrate electric performance credentials with sharp handling and styling. From launch, there are three GSe variants: Grandland GSe, Astra GSe, and the Astra Sports Tourer GSe. All three models boast a unique style as well as upgrades inside and out. Each utilise powerful electrified drivetrains as well as featuring improved handling thanks to suspension and steering upgrades.
Astra Sports Tourer GSe: Electrified Performance
The Plug-in Hybrid powertrain has been upgraded for the GSe variants. The Astra Sports Tourer GSe comes with a 180PS 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine connected to an 81.2kW (110PS) electric motor. Creating a total power output of 225PS and maximum torque of 360Nm. This allows it to accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds as well as achieving a top-speed of 146mph.
Featuring a 12.4kWh battery, the GSe offers up to 39 miles of pure electric range. As well as emissions as low as 26g/km CO2 and is eligible for a Benefit-in-Kind rate of 12%.
Added Driving Enjoyment with the Astra Sports Tourer GSe
Vauxhall engineers have revised the suspension onboard the for sharper handling. Fitting it with 11 per cent stiffer springs and Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) technology by specialists KONI. The technology adjusts the damping characteristics at high frequencies (to control the suspension) and low frequencies (focusing on the body). This provides a smooth and balanced ride.
As part of the performance upgrades, Vauxhall has recalibrated the Astra Sports Tourer GSe’s steering giving it a sportier feel. Steering response has been increased by 9 per cent over standard models, with the response rate better at all wheel angles. This also improves the on-centre feel and helps deliver better feedback at higher speeds.
Vauxhall has also adjusted the Sport mode on GSe models, so that the electronic stability control (ESC) set to engage slightly later.
Unique design and specification
The Astra Sports Tourer GSe features several styling upgrades to help it stand out on the road. A 10mm lower profile is achieved from the revised suspension and damping profile, and 18-inch ‘Commodore’ wheels give the car a distinct stance, while a black roof and black Griffin logos are also featured.
All Astra Sports Tourer GSe models also come with IntelliLux adaptive LED Pixel headlights and dark tinted rear windows.
Inside, Alcantara-trimmed performance front seats, certified by Germany’s AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken or ‘Campaign for Healthier Backs’) and a GSe-specific leather steering wheel are included as part of the GSe upgrades. A Multimedia Pure Panel Pro Navigation system with a 10-inch digital instrument display and a 10-inch touchscreen with Natural Voice Recognition is also featured, as is wireless smartphone charging and the Intelli-HUD head-up-display technology for an improved driving experience.
For improved safety and convenience, Astra Sports Tourer GSe models feature Intelli-Drive technology with Forward Collision Alert and Active Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection. Also included is Drowsiness Detection, Lane Departure Warning and Traffic Sign Assistant, Cross Traffic and Side Blind Spot alert and Automatic Speed Assistant with Stop Function – all contributing towards a safer driving experience for driver and passenger.