Search Car Reviews



See all makes



Vauxhall Astra VXR spied

New Vauxhall Astra VXR to get 300bhp and a limited slip-diff

Vauxhall Astra VXR spied 4

Text: Luke Madden / Photos: Automedia

21st September 2011

The Focus ST had its moment at the Frankfurt Motor Show but now Vauxhall is muscling in for its share of the hot-hatch limelight with a new 300bhp Astra VXR – and these pictures give our first look at the new model.

Based on the three-door GTC model – which gets dramatic C pillars and muscular arches – the VXR builds on the sporty look with a new bodykit, large alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. 

Power is expected to come from a turbocharged four-cylinder 2.0-litre petrol engine with over 300bhp – a huge increase over the outgoing 237bhp Astra VXR. All the power will be delivered to the front wheels and a limited slip-diff is expected to be fitted as standard. 

Acceleration from 0-62mph will take around six seconds and a the VXR will continue on to a top speed of 150mph.

The GTC model already rides on suspension lowered by 15mm over the five-door Astra and the VXR model will be lower still. The Insignia VXR’s HiPerStrut suspension will also feature to help cornering and also reduce torque steer.

The spy shots reveal a set of huge Brembo brakes complete with cross-drilled discs to provide the stopping power.

Expect prices to start at around £25,000 when the Astra VXR goes on sale towards the beginning of next year.  

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

5 Comments

300BHP?

No point if it handles like every other high powered Vauxhall that has ever been.

Shame if the handling is rubbish, as it looks great.

By gavsmit on 21 September, 2011, 10:09pm

Whats the point

A couple of years back I sold my mildly modified Rover 220 Coupe Turbo. So why all the hype, and what non earth are they doing with 300 hp. Standard Rover Coupe 0-60 6.2 secs, max speed 150 mph. Need I say any more!!

By TAMBLIN51 on 23 September, 2011, 12:04am

lead weight car and poor chassis

0 to 60 in about 6 seconds?? for a 300HP+ motor in a hot hatch Astra that is slow ..whats happening to all the power? The German GM designers need to take a few lessons from Fords English design team on how to deliver power

By liverpool on 23 September, 2011, 5:55pm

STATS.

'Acceleration from 0-62mph will take around six seconds and a the VXR will continue on to a top speed of 150mph.'

The old VXR with 240 BHP done precisely that much... But Vauxhall aren't the ones who are claiming such figures, it's AE just chatting rubbish as usual.

By Abdurrahman1 on 24 September, 2011, 7:50pm

All been done much better years ago.

I just looked at the performance of this car. I agree with all comments above. Clearly experienced readers who know their cars. I'm right in saying I think that this has all been done before but much better. Subaru launched the Impreza turbo in 1992!!. I think from memory Autocar tested it and managed a sub 5 second 0-60 mph. ? Not only that but it handled very well indeed. Mine still puts a smile on my face and I have still not driven anything that is quicker or safer in all conditions in normal road use. Of course there is a wealth of aftermarket car parts a tuning products too. All are relatively cheap. My son is running one with a reliable 436 bhp with albeit heavy mods and a 2.5 litre engine and 6 speed box. Oh my, what a wonderful space to spend your time in!!!! Astra VXR errr no. Monaro..... now your talking!!!!

By PeterJK on 2 October, 2011, 4:06pm

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

More VAUXHALL ASTRA VXR SPIED articles


Related Index Pages

- Advertisement -

Pictures

Vauxhall Astra VXR spied 4
Vauxhall Astra VXR spied 6
Vauxhall Astra VXR spied 5
Vauxhall Astra VXR spied
Vauxhall Astra VXR spied 2
Vauxhall Astra VXR spied 1

Sponsored Results

- Advertisement -