Vauxhall brings back the Corsa GSi, 25 years after the original

Vauxhall is bringing back the famous GSi name to the Corsa model, 25 years after the original made its mark.

The GSi will be based on the more powerful VXR, and should slot beneath it in the range. The car will use the same sports chassis as the VXR and bear similar design elements. Available only as a three-door model, the GSi will sport large air intakes, deep sill extensions and a large rear spoiler. There'll also be a number of external design cues like carbon-fibre trim pieces and a chrome exhaust tip.

Suspension and braking will also be derived from the VXR model. The GSi uses the same firmer springs and dampers, with red-painted brake calipers.

The cabin continues the sports theme, featuring leather Recaro seats, leather sports steering wheel and aluminium pedals.

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There's no word on what powers the GSi yet, but it's likely to be the most powerful non-VXR engine available, a 148hp, 1.4-litre turbo, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. This will make it less expensive to buy and insure for younger drivers, capturing the same market as the original car 25 years before.

The price is under wraps for now, but will likely be revealed before Vauxhall opens the order books for the Corsa GSi later in the year.

By Andrew Evans