GSe, or Grand Sport Electric, is a brand new sub-division that'll focus on producing electrified performance models. Enthusiasts will know all too well that Vauxhall has form when it comes to spicier models, with its Lotus-developed Carlton super saloon of the 1990s, and latterly GSi and hardcore VXR models.

New it may sound, the GSe badge has been seen before though if you're familiar with Vauxhall's sister firm Opel. It denoted a sportier version of the Opel Monza in the mid-1980s, and was used more recently on the Opel Manta GSe ElektroMOD – a stunning 'restomod' that reimagined the classic 1970s Manta into a modern-day electric car.

The GSe badge is also being launched on the Astra Sports Tourer estate and the Grandland SUV – a four-wheel drive, twin-motor PHEV packing 300bhp. All three GSe models receive tweaked exterior styling and chassis and suspension changes for a more sporting drive.

The Astra GSe hatchback is arguably the most intriguing as Vauxhall claims it has some of the panache of GSi and VXR Astra hot hatchbacks of yore, but with a new focus on zero emissions driving that comes from plug-in hybrid power.

I travel to Spain to drive the new Astra GSe to see if it's a return to great hot Vauxhalls of the past.

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