Vauxhall has released the first official photographs of its new Astra VXR, which will be the most powerful production model of the Astra when it goes on sale in 2012.
Based on the recently launched Vauxhall Astra GTC, the VXR's 2.0-litre direct injection turbo will give it just under 280bhp and 295 lb-ft of torque. This results in a top speed for the Astra VXR of 155mph.
Chassis modifications for the VXR include a limited slip differential operating on the front wheels, in conjunction the high performance suspension struts found on the GTC. The Astra VXR also has Vauxhall's FlexRide system fitted as standard, along with Brembo brakes. The FlexRide system comes with a VXR button in addition to the usual sport button, giving a wider range of options for damper, throttle, and steering control.
Final testing was largely conducted on the fearsome Nordschleife at the Nürburgring by former British Touring Car Champion and Le Mans 24-hour winner Joachim Winkelhock.
The new Vauxhall Astra VXR features sculpted front and rear bumper, side skirts, aerodynamic roof spoiler, and trapezoid twin exhausts. The interior boasts specially designed performance seats with embossed VXR logos, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and uprated dashboard instruments.
Vauxhall did not confirm details of pricing structures for the new Astra VXR, which will be revealed early next year ahead of its launch date, but the manufacturer has confirmed that its 100,000 Vauxhall Lifetime Warranty will be included as standard on the new model when it goes on sale next year.
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