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Vauxhall Astra VXR confirmed

Vauxhall confirms new hot hatch is on the way, with a storming 295bhp turbo

Vauxhall Astra VXR

By Dan Strong

29th July 2011

Vauxhall has confirmed that it’s working on a high-performance VXR version of its Astra GTC coupé – and it will launch next year.

The newcomer is described as the “most exciting development” of the performance car brand yet. It’s tipped to be a carbon copy of the GTC Paris concept car, which was revealed at the motor show in the French capital last year.

A Vauxhall source explained that even the vibrant red paint is set to make production. Also on offer will be huge 20-inch alloys, race-inspired bucket seats and colour-coded bodywork.

We drive a 180bhp 1.6-litre turbo version of the Astra GTC on Page 32, and this will bridge the gap to the VXR model, ahead of its launch next year. However, with power from an updated petrol turbo, delivering 295bhp, the top-spec model will set new standards for performance and acceleration in the hot hatch class.

Under the skin will be the same suspension – derived from the Insignia VXR – as in the 1.6, while the VXR will also get larger brakes and a louder exhaust. Vauxhall’s FlexRide system, which gives owners three sporty driving modes, will be offered as standard, and it’s expected that the system will debut a special ‘VXR’ setting. This will provide sharper steering and reduced input from the ESP system for even greater thrills.

Performance figures have yet to be confirmed. But with so much power on tap, the new model promises to match the likes of the Renaultsport Mégane and VW Scirocco R.

Engineers are also working hard to ensure the VXR meets strict emissions regulations, and it will come with stop-start. Prices will be announced next year.

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3 Comments

Nice, But...

... Why the odd coloured front seats?! I hope this is just a mock up of the proposed interior colour scheme.

20" alloys will make for an interesting ride - I think the word 'firm' will be replaced by 'bone shaking' and 'spine crushing' in many reviewers descriptions of the ride quality.

By ajjm65 on 29 July, 2011, 3:59pm

... and can you imagine the fierce torque steer this car could suffer?

Every VXR produced by Vauxhall over the years has suffered from terrible ride and handling problems. Whilst they made them fantastically fast in a straight line on dry roads, and they looked suitably racy from the baby Corsa, to the squat Astra, to the lean looking Insignia ... their handling has never lived up to the looks or image. I wonder if they've sorted their cars at last? Or will this be another false dawn for Performance Vauxhalls?

By Dame_Edna on 9 August, 2011, 1:34am

Torque Steer

Top Gear did a piece on this car, or one nearly like it, with 240 HP and the torque steer was so bad that it was almost un-driveable, even for the Stig, around their onsite airfield track. Ford have employed software and hardware on the new Focus that makes the torque steer negligible, or so they say.

By thewizardofaz on 16 August, 2011, 8:00am

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Pictures

Vauxhall Astra VXR
Vauxhall Astra VXR
Vauxhall Astra VXR
Vauxhall Astra VXR

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