Vauxhall, the British arm of Opel has released images of their upcoming Corsa GSI. You would recall, South African's received a GSi-badged Corsa for some time, with it last seen about a decade ago.
This new Corsa GSi is meant to fill the performance gap between existing models and the range topping VXR (which we would know as the Corsa OPC). Vauxhall hasn't released any information on its powertrain, but many expect it to use to the same 110kw 1.4T that's already used in the Corsa range.
Interestingly, the GSi will get the same suspension and brakes as the Vauxhall Corsa VXR, with firmer springs and retuned dampers, and it sits on 18-inch alloy wheels. Separating the GSi from other variants in the Corsa range is a sportier look. Large air intakes on the bumper and bonnet dominate the front of the car, while deep sill extensions run along the side.
At the rear of the car, there’s the addition of a spoiler to generate downforce, while a single chrome exhaust pipe completes the look. Inside, there are leather RECARO sports seats, a leather steering wheel and aluminium pedals. The Corsa’s infotainment gets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity as standard.
The Corsa GSi is expected to go on sale in the UK towards the end of 2018, but don't bet on it coming to South Africa.
Also worth a look: the Opel Corsa and the Opel Corsa: Germany's Favourite Small Car Goes Electric.
FAQ
Q: What does the Opel Corsa GSi cost in South Africa?
The Corsa GSi isn't officially available in South Africa, but if it were, expect pricing around R450,000 to R500,000 based on similar performance hatchbacks in the local market.
Q: Is the Opel Corsa GSi worth buying?
The Corsa GSi would be a solid middle-ground performance option with its 110kW 1.4T engine and VXR suspension setup, but since it's not coming to SA, you're better off looking at alternatives like the Polo GTI or Fiesta ST.
Q: What's the difference between Corsa GSi and Corsa VXR?
The GSi sits between regular Corsas and the range-topping VXR, sharing the VXR's suspension and brakes but likely with less aggressive engine tuning and a more accessible price point.
Q: Will the Opel Corsa GSi come to South Africa?
Unfortunately not, the article specifically mentions you shouldn't bet on the Corsa GSi coming to South Africa, despite our history with GSi-badged Corsas that ended about a decade ago.
Q: What engine does the Corsa GSi have?
While Vauxhall hasn't confirmed it officially, the Corsa GSi is expected to use the same 110kW 1.4-litre turbocharged engine that's already available in the current Corsa range.
Should You Buy It?
You can't buy the Corsa GSi in South Africa, so this is purely academic. If you're after a sporty small hatch with similar performance credentials, the best option under R500,000 in SA is the Volkswagen Polo GTI at around R485,000, which offers 147kW and proper hot hatch pedigree. The Ford Fiesta ST at roughly R450,000 is another cracking alternative that would give you the GSi experience you're after. Skip waiting for something that's not coming and grab one of these proven performers instead.
