Vauxhall claims that its new Astra VXR will deliver class-leading power and torque figures, along with significantly improved handling thanks to sophisticated front suspension.
The VXR will be fitted with a 2.0-litre direct-injection engine, developing 276bhp and 295lb-ft of torque. This means that the new VXR will have the highest specific output in its class. Vauxhall has achieved these impressive figures by fitting a new intake system which is designed to supply as much air as possible to the Astra's turbocharger.
Vauxhall also claim to have focussed on real-world performance and, with maximum torque produced between 2450rpm and 5000rpm, the VXR should accelerate quickly in all gears. 0-62mph takes 5.9 seconds and flat out the VXR will hit a limited top speed of 155mph.
Vauxhall tested the VXR endlessly at the Nurburgring and the new car should be a capable handler thanks to stiffer springs, new dampers, Brembo brakes and a multi-plate limited slip differential for improved traction.
However, as anyone who drove the old VXR will know, you can't put much more than 200bhp through the front wheels of a car without experiencing some… ahem… interesting handling characteristics. Vauxhall claims that it has solved the old VXR's wayward handling with its HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut) suspension which reduces front wheel camber changes, thus minimising the torque steer for which the old Astra VXR was famed.
The addition of a Start/Stop system has also helped fuel economy and the Astra VXR should manage a combined 34.9mpg and emit just 189g/km of CO2, which is pretty impressive for a car of this type.
The Vauxhall Astra VXR will be priced from £26,995 - nearly £5,000 cheaper than the equivalent VW Golf R - and will be available in the UK from July.
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