Vauxhall unveils hardcore Astra VXR model
The Vauxhall Astra VXR Extreme, pictured above, will form part of the Vauxhall stand and aims to give customers an insight into what an upcoming high-performance, low-volume molten hot hatch will look like.
Based on last year's Astra Cup racecar, the VXR Extreme is a street-legal sibling that will employ a lightweight philosophy and possible engine upgrades to ensure it is quicker and more responsive than the current generation VXR.
Vauxhall officials are remaining tight-lipped about specifics but they have said the model will be, "shorn of weight thanks to liberal use of high-quality carbon components." So expect carbon fibre and lightweight aluminium alloys replacing heavier steel parts.
Inside, the hardcore road vehicle will get proper racing seats complete with six-point safety belts and a generally 'stripped-backed' approach to the dash and interior gadgets.
The current Astra VXR boasts a 276bhp, 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that is good for a sub-six second 0-60mph sprint (given the right conditions) and a top speed of 155mph.
Expect the Extreme version to flaunt a fettled engine and improved performance figures thanks to the weight-saving diet.
It is highly likely that the Astra VXR Extreme will pick up where the likes of Renault's hardcore Megane R26.R left off, featuring a roll cage and other race-ready components - so expect to pay a hefty premium over the standard VXR's £26,995 price tag.
