VXR8 rumbles back for more V8 thrills

Fabulous VXR8 gets a new look and more technology for 2011.

VAUXHALL has revised its storming VXR8 model for 2011 and as these pictures show, it will sport a heavily revised front and rear styling, a new cabin and a raft of new technology.
One of the last, great rear-drive V8 super-saloons, and priced at £49,500 (inc. 20 per cent VAT) it’s available to order now.
The new VXR8 is now based on HSV’s E3 GTS model, just launched in Australia, the previous VXR8 representing the old version of the lower-spec ClubSport R8. That means it still undercuts full-size super saloons like the Audi RS6, Jaguar XFR and Mercedes E63 AMG by between £13k and £29k, and even performance saloons from the class below, such as the BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 AMG.

Anyone who spots one of these cars on the road will be left in little doubt of its potential.

A new, ‘Shockwave’ grille, LED daytime running lights and sleek new wing-vents mark the new car out from the front, while the rear features a new ‘Superflow’ rear spoiler, LED tail lamps and twin exhaust tips that mimic the shape of the front grille. As you can see from these first official press shots of the Hazard Yellow car, the new VXR8 will never blend into the scenery!
The VXR8’s race-bred chassis uses MacPherson struts/progressive rate coil springs at the front and a multi-link independent set-up at the rear. But for the first time on a VXR8, Vauxhall has employed Magnetic Ride Control (MRC), a suspension system which adapts up to 1000 times a seconds to road conditions and driver inputs. Based on technology used in GM’s current Corvette ZR1 supercar, MRC works by sending an electric current through damper units filled with ‘soft’ magnetic particles. These particles harden as the input reaches its maximum value, providing drivers with exceptional levels of ride, handling and stopping power.
The car will also feature a launch control system to ensure it gets off the line quickly, propelled by the fourth generation 6.2-litre LS3 unit producing 431PS and a massive 550Nm of torque, enough to propel the VXR8 from 0-60mph in 4.9 seconds and on to a governed top speed of 155mph. Drive is delivered to the rear axle via either a six-speed manual or auto transmission, working through a mechanical limited slip differential.
Inside, the new VXR8 gets full leather trim as standard, and front occupants are cocooned in special HSV Performance Seats with eight-way adjustability.
There’s a new instrument cluster and surround, centre stack and switchgear to provide a cleaner and more integrated look, while standard equipment also includes Aux-in/USB inputs, iPod support and Bluetooth with phone book display and touch-screen dialling.
A new EDI, or Enhanced Driver Interface, connects with the on-board computer to constantly stream real-time vehicle dynamics and performance to the car’s main 5-inch monitor. At the touch of the screen, drivers can access a variety of data such as vehicle G-forces, power and torque and lap times – even the degree to which their VXR8 is drifting.Data, such as track day performance, can be downloaded and analysed using the Motec i2 software provided.
Befitting its exclusivity, the VXR8 is now available through just six highly specialist VXR dealers in the UK, though a total of 34 VXR outlets will be authorised to maintain the model.