Most powerful Astra unveiled

Most powerful Astra London - Arabstoday Vauxhall has released the first pictures and details of its latest hot hatch, the Astra VXR. Based on the latest Astra GTC three-door, the VXR uses a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 276bhp and 295lb ft of torque, making it the most powerful production Astra the company has ever built. The high performance engine is matched by an upgraded chassis, featuring Vauxhall’s Flexride adaptive dampers and Brembo brakes. A mechanical limited slip differential and Vauxhall’s high performance strut front suspension help transmit all that power through the front wheels. New bumpers, side skirts, a rear spoiler and 20in wheels identify the VXR from the outside, while the cabin boasts sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and upgraded instruments. Vauxhall has developed the VXR’s chassis at the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife, with 1999 Le Mans 24-hour winner and ex-British Touring Car driver Jo Winkelhock overseeing the test programme. At present there are no details on how much the Astra VXR will cost when it goes on sale next year, complete with Vauxhall’s “lifetime” (or 100,000-mile) warranty. Its rivals will include the £24,020 Renaultsport Megane 250 and Volkswagen’s £25,305 Golf GTI.