2011 Vauxhall VXR8

Complementing the new Vauxhall VXR8's MRC is Launch Control, which is engaged when drivers select the ESC's (Electronic Stability Control) Competition Mode. Standard on both Clubsport and GTS models fitted with manual transmission, the system dictates the level of torque delivered to the rear wheels for maximum acceleration, according to surface conditions. All the driver has to do is floor the throttle and let the car do the rest. Extensive testing has proved that LC results in acceleration runs no more than 0.1 second apart. Completing the chassis package are the largest brakes ever fitted to a Vauxhall. At the front, 365mm diameter ventilated and grooved discs take pride of place, mated to race-bred four-piston callipers providing exceptional stopping power. The same hardware is fitted at the rear with 350mm diameter rotors.

Making a welcome return to the new VXR8 is GM's 6.2-litre 'LS3' engine, a modern interpretation of the legendary small block motor which has powered millions of vehicles for more than fifty years and currently sees service in the Australian V8 Supercar Series and also the mighty, supercharged Corvette ZR1.  Even with 431PS of power at 6000rpm and 550Nm of torque at 4600rpm, the LS3 is unstressed and tractable enough to deal with a wide spread of driving needs, whether it's burbling through towns and cities or exercising its full potential on drivers' favourite A- or B-roads. And as Vauxhall proved with the Bathurst S version from the last generation Vauxhall VXR8, the LS3 unit is eminently capable of being tuned to accept more than 600PS, such is its strength and placidity. The result is the sort of performance you'd only get from large saloons costing considerably more than the Vauxhall VXR8: 0-60mph in 4.9 seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph.  As before, the Vauxhall VXR8 is available with either a new six-speed manual MM10 gearbox with uprated LS7 clutch, or a six-speed auto transmission with selectable ratios, both of which deliver drive to the rear wheels through a mechanical limited-slip differential.

2011 Vauxhall VXR8 Interior

 2011 Vauxhall VXR8