Vauxhall has introduced a sporty version of the Corsa GSE electric hatchback, which in terms of dynamics surpasses one of the most popular compact cars, the Volkswagen Golf GTI, reports Autocar.

This novelty will enter the UK market later this year and will cost significantly cheaper than its German competitor. The electric car has a 277-horsepower engine and is able to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds. For comparison, the gasoline Golf GTI reaches this speed in 5.9 seconds, and the electric Volkswagen ID.3 GTX does this in 5.7 seconds.

The Corsa GSE is faster also than the competitor Alpine A290, which needs 6.4 seconds for this. The Corsa GSE will cost £34,495 (about $46,450) in the UK, and with the expected government subsidy, it could drop all the way to £32,995 (about $44,430). This car is the first sporty version of the model since the Corsa VXR was discontinued eight years ago.

The Corsa GSE is powered by an electric engine that is also used in the sporty versions of other Stellantis models, including the Abarth 600e, the Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica Veloce, and the Vauxhall Mokka GSE. Engineers have equipped the Corsa GSE with a Torsen limited-slip differential, a sports suspension, reinforced stabilizers, faster steering, and Alcon brakes with four-piston calipers. The suspension has become lower, and the 18-inch wheels have Michelin Pilot Sport 4S sports tires.

Three driving modes are provided for the Corsa GSE. In normal mode, power is limited to 228 horsepower to save energy, the eco mode further reduces performance and limits the maximum speed, and the sport mode unlocks the full potential of the engine: 277 horsepower.

Externally, the sports version is distinguished by a more aggressive design with black decorative elements, 18-inch wheels and details reminiscent of the classic Nova GSi model of the 1990s.

The interior has sports seats with a checkered finish, green seat belts, an Alcantara-covered steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. Vauxhall hopes the new sporty models will help the brand change its image and make its cars more emotional, amid growing competition from Chinese electric car manufacturers.