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Date: November 1st, 2005
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Designers at Vauxhall have been tripping the light fantastic to boost the sensational Astra VXR. A stripped-out version of the three-door hot hatch is currently on the drawing board at the firm's Luton headquarters.
Aiming to reinforce the car's reputation as the most extreme model in its class, the VXR is expected to rival the new entry-level edition of Ford's Focus ST, the featherweight Astra will be mechanically identical to the hi-spec car Vauxhall already has on sale, although it promises to undercut the price.
Based on the entry-level VXR, and costing £18,995, it will offer stiffened Lotus-developed suspension, 18-inch wheels and a stripped-out interior. The changes are expected to give a 50kg weight saving, thanks to lighter seats and the loss of some standard-fit luxuries such as air-conditioning.
Special white paint and unique alloys will ensure the car is instantly recognised. Sources tell us it could make its debut at the British Motor Show in London next summer
