Vauxhall’s VXR8 muscle car

Australian-born ‘supersaloon’ fills the void left by the Monaro.

Vauxhall has announced a successor to the now defunct Australian-built Monaro VXR. The VXR8 is essentially a rebadged Holden HSV Clubsport R8, a ‘supersaloon’ which also hails from the land down under. And with this latest import, Vauxhall seeks to offer exceptional performance blended with four-door practicality.

The fire-breathing musclecar is powered by a 6-litre LS2 V8 from a Chevrolet Corvette (the same engine that propelled the Monaro VXR) sending power to the rear wheels.

We’re told this revised version of the V8 has been massaged for greater power and efficiency however, and now develops 414bhp and 406lb.ft of torque (up from the Monaro’s 404bhp and 391lb.ft). Vauxhall claims the saloon can accomplish 0-60mph runs in 4.9 seconds.

Scrubbing off speed will be the task of an upgraded braking system, which comprises of 365mm front discs. The company claim the setup will stop the car from 60mph faster than a Lamborghini Murcielago or BMW M5. Hmmm. We’ll have to see about that.

Unlike previous VXR models, the VXR8 will be offered with an automatic gearbox with manual shifting capability and a sport setting. The company claim the automatic only increases 0-60mph stints by a half second.

The VXR8 also comes fitted with a stability system and traction control, which can be turned off should drivers have a sudden urge to test their skills.

Styling seems a bit ungainly, but it’s certain to be more practical than its coupe forebear. The company claims the VXR8 has ‘a spacious boot’ and space for ‘all the family’. That is considering your family consists of no more than five.

Within the saloon body style, Vauxhall promises an emphasis on comfort, with the interior featuring climate control and leather trim. A satellite navigation system and 20-inch wheels will be offered as options.

The VXR8 will undoubtedly get strong competition in the form of the Audi RS4 and others, but given its £34,995 entry fee (add £1400 for the auto option) it considerably undercuts its rivals. Expect it on UK dealer forecourts from July.