New VXR8

[LostInMoscow]

This would look really nice with a Chevy bowtie on it in left-hand drive with an American price without all those British import duties and value added taxes!



The next-generation Vauxhall VXR8 will go on sale next March priced at £49,500. Despite the British badge, the vXR8 is actually an Australian Holden, and the new car is a renamed version of the E3 GTS which has recently been launched in its home country.

It's quite a beast. The engine is a 425bhp 6.2-litre V8 which drives the rear wheels and gives the VXR8 a 0-60mph time of 4.9 seconds in the case of models with the standard six-speed manual gearbox (automativ transmission is also available). Top speed is limited to 155mph.

As well as looking even more aggressive than the current VXR8, the new one boasts some high-tech features such as the Magnetic Ride Control system similar to the one used by Audi on its more sporty models, and also found in the Corvette ZR1. There's also launch control, which gives the rear wheels only as much power as they can stand, depending on road conditions, while the driver simply keeps his or her right foot hard on the throttle. And there's an Enhanced Driver Interface with a 5" touchscreen which can be made to display power and torque levels, g forces, drift angle and lap times.

Inside, there's full leather upholstery, eight-way adjustable sports seats, auxiliary and USB inputs for the audio system, iPod support, Bluetooth connectivity and redesigned instruments, centre stack and switchgear. The VXR8 is available to order now from six UK VXR dealers, and a total of 34 are authorised to maintain the car for customers.