Astra VXR unleashed with 280bhp
04.11.2011 - Andy Goodwin
(5)
The Vauxhall Astra VXR has been unveiled hot on the heels of the Astra GTC Coupe we recently tested. It will be the most powerful Astra in history.
Headline figures from the 2-litre turbocharged engine are 280bhp and 295lb/ft of pulling power - enough poke for a top speed of 155mph. Zero to 62mph should take around six seconds.
It will also put it near the top of the hot hatch pile for outright speed, beating the Renaultsport Megane 250 and 250bhp SEAT Leon Cupra R. Only four-wheel drive hatchbacks like the Audi RS3 have more power.
To deal with all the grunt it has a bespoke chassis featuring Vauxhall's HiPerStrut front suspension, aimed at reducing unwanted pulling at the steering wheel. It is also fitted with a limited-slip differential, which distributes power between the front wheels for maximum traction.
Brakes are supplied by renowned Italian manufacturer Brembo and Vauxhall's FlexRide adaptive suspension is fitted as standard. This allows the driver to choose a 'Sport' and 'VXR' mode to make the suspension firmer, increase throttle response and add weight to the steering.
The Astra VXR is easily identifiable by a set of 20-inch alloys, deep front grille, side skirts, roof spoiler and twin tail pipes. Inside, bucket seats ensconce driver and passenger, there's a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel and VXR instrument gauges.
Vauxhall is staying tight-lipped on pricing, although it's safe to expect the VXR will cost several thousand more than the £22,430 range-topping Astra GTC Coupe when it goes on sale in 2012.
