Vauxhall has revealed its new VXR8 GTS, a 576bhp super-saloon which the Luton firm will be using to take on the BMW M5 and the Mercedes E63 AMG.
Powered by a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine taken from the new Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, the VXR8 GTS is based on sister company Holden Special Vehicles' new GEN-F GTS. Vauxhall claims that the VXR8 GTS is therefore the fastest production car ever to come from Australia.
And with a price tag of £54,999, Vauxhall claims that the VXR8 GTS is the cheapest way to buy a 500bhp+ vehicle in the UK.
Underneath the bonnet, Vauxhall has given the VXR8 GTS a raft of improvements including an uprated exhaust system, a new air-intake system and improved cooling. The power from the V8 engine is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, with a six-speed auto 'box offered as an option.
Vauxhall has also tweaked the VXR8 GTS' chassis, adding a new Torque Vectoring system, which reduces understeer by braking the inside rear wheel during braking, and Magnetic Ride Control active dampers. The car also gets a Driver Preference Dial, which allows the driver to choose between four driving modes -- Touring, Sport, Performance and Track -- which alter the stability control, launch control, traction control, torque vectoring, power steering and exhaust note.
New wider 20-inch alloy wheels are also fitted to provide extra grip and the car has been given a facelift, with a new front end which is designed to make the car look wider. A new front grille and a larger rear diffuser are also part of the visual transformation.
Order books for the new Vauxhall VXR8 GTS open today and the first deliveries are expected by the end of the year.
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