We have just met the new Opel Astra L and, despite the low probability of a sporting version of the model coming into existence, it was not an impediment for author X-Tomi Design to imagine a hypothetical Opel Astra GSi.
Now part of the Stellantis Group, the new Opel Astra is based on the latest evolution of the EMP2 platform, shared with its French “brothers”: the new Peugeot 308 and DS 4.
In addition to the platform, it also shares all its engines, whether gasoline, diesel and, for the first time in the German model, plug-in hybrids.
Although Opel has not yet provided any information regarding the development of a future Opel Astra GSi, everything points to the probability of this happening being very low or, if you prefer, almost nil. Today, the GSi acronym is present only and exclusively on the Opel Insignia GSi.
Even so, if it did, we imagine it would be a model capable of pairing with other hot hatches such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST or Renault Mégane R.S.
X-Tomi's Astra GSi
Analyzing the work carried out by the designer X-Tomi Design, we can immediately identify some differences compared to the so-called “normal” model, some more obvious than others.
We can see the well-known black hood, which is becoming an increasingly characteristic feature of models from the German brand, such as the Opel Mokka. Accompanying it is a roof in the same color, as well as the rear view mirrors are in black.
Even at the front, you can see that the bumper was, all of it, redesigned and changed for a sportier look. The air intake grille was enlarged and the fog lights were swapped for two side air intakes.
Opel Astra L.
On the side, known from the Opel Insignia GSi, the hypothetical Opel Astra GSi are fitted with larger wheels, as well as the prominent widening of the wheel arches. Among them, we see more muscular and attractive side skirts, typical of sports versions like this one.
About the engine, and speculating a bit and considering the current focus on electrification — Opel will become 100% electric starting in 2028 — it would not surprise us that a hypothetical new Opel Astra GSi would resort to a plug-in hybrid engine .
The revelation of the first images of the new generation, the Astra L, brought with them the information that the most powerful engine, with 225 hp, is a plug-in hybrid, so it would not be at all unlikely that a new GSi would resort to such an option. .
Inside Stellantis, there are more powerful plug-in hybrid engines, like the 300 hp used by the Peugeot 3008 GT HYBRID4, or the 360 hp used by the Peugeot 508 PSE. However, they imply four-wheel drive (electrified rear axle), which could mean increased costs and, consequently, a less competitive price.