SOME two months after trumpeting the rebirth, 25 years on, of the Corsa GSi, Vauxhall has finally released details of the resurrected model's powertrain.

When it arrives in UK showrooms this autumn, the new GSi will be powered by a 1.4-litre petrol turbo engine with 148bhp and 220Nm of torque, allied to a short-ratio six-speed gearbox.

But the performance figures might prove something of a disappointment for enthusiasts expecting something more than just another warm hatch.

For, when it comes to sprinting away from the line, the latest GSi will only be marginally quicker than the car that first launched the Corsa GSi badge a quarter of a century ago, covering the 0-62mph dash in 8.9 seconds, compared with the original model's 9.2 seconds.

Top speed won't be that much higher either - 128mph compared with 121mph for the original 1993 model which was fitted with a 16-valve, double-overhead cam, 1.6-litre petrol engine producing 105bhp.

However, what this latest GSi loses on the swings, it may well gain on the roundabouts thanks to the fact that it is built on the same chassis as the high-performance Corsa VXR with firmer springs, competition-tuned dampers and red-painted brake calipers.

And the new model's impressive 220Nm of torque, which is available between 3,000 and 4,500rpm, (the old model could only muster 150Nm) will make a significant difference in mid-range power with acceleration from 50-70mph in fifth gear taking just 9.9 seconds.

Large front air intakes, a sculptured bonnet and prominent rear spoiler will set the GSi apart from other Corsa models when it hits Britain's roads in September.