Vauxhall VXR8: In Detail

Press Release

Engine

One of Monaro's most alluring features was its beastly V8 engine a modern interpretation of the legendary GM small block, which has powered quite literally millions of performance cars across the globe throughout the past 50-plus years. And the good news is that VXR8 gets an even newer variant of the venerable powerplant. The 6.0i LS2 unit is based on the same engine that has powered the Monaro to success in the Australian V8 Supercar Series, and has thrust the Corvette to class victories at the Le Mans 24-Hour Race. Yet despite being one of the most established engines of all-time, the Generation 4 evolution of it is modern where it matters, with a sophisticated intelligent engine management system that monitors and adjusts its activities every 6.25 milliseconds, ensuring peak performance at all times. The exhaust manifolds split from four into two into one to minimise power loss, while the large diameter stainless steel exhaust offers an aural accompaniment that's easily in keeping with the engine's legendary reputation for awesome power and performance. Speaking of which, VXR8 delivers 417PS (307Kw) at 6,000rpm, coupled to an impressive torque output of 550Nm (405 lb ft) @ 4,400rpm. That's 45PS and 40Nm more than the smaller Mercedes C55 AMG, despite the VXR8 being more than 14,000 cheaper to buy. For the first time, VXR8 introduces the option of an automatic gearbox to the VXR brand, although a six-speed manual transmission comes as standard. The self-shifter is also a six-speed, and was introduced to satisfy customer demand. A 1,400 option, it is actually more economical than the manual, and includes selectable ratios so you can drive it like a manual. Whichever model you go for, the performance is phenomenal. 0-60mph takes just 4.9 seconds in the manual or 5.0 seconds in the auto. We'd love to tell you how fast it goes flat out, but the Australians never quote top speeds and Vauxhall has yet to put one on a track and find out!

Chassis, brakes and suspension

In keeping with the rest of the VXR range, VXR8 is a carefully-honed performance car, and not just a tweaked saloon. Beneath the skin it features a highly-developed and sophisticated chassis, with bushes and damper rates specically developed to cope with the demands of British driving surfaces. At the front, a MacPherson strut arrangement benefits from progressive rate springs and an anti-roll bar, while at the rear VXR8 comes with a state-of-the-art independent, multi-link set-up, again with progressive-rate springs and matched damper calibration. Here, the springs and dampers work in harmony to deliver optimum stability, yet at the same time help deliver a comfortable and compliant ride, with none of the tooth-rattling firmness of some rivals. A sophisticated ESP system comes as standard to enhance the car's safety on the road, but should you venture along to a track day, the whole lot can be turned off, allowing you to exploit the chassis's capabilities. VXR8 also gets the largest brakes ever fitted to a Vauxhall. At the front, there are 365mm diameter ventilated and grooved discs, aided by race-bred four-piston callipers to help deliver incredible stopping power. At the rear, the discs are 350mm in diameter, and are again ventilated, grooved and helped by four-piston callipers. This enables the VXR8 to brake to a standstill from 62mph in under 36 metres shorter than a Lamborghini Gallardo. Despite this impressive stopping power, further brake improvements and chassis tuning packs are available through Walkinshaw performance, turning it into an even more focused muscle car.