Opel prepping 240HP Astra VXR turbo

Posted Wed Jun 4 2008 11:13 AM by Siddharth Raja

The Opel Astra VXR is set to return again in 2010 with an all-new body and updated powertrain. Based on the next-generation Astra hatchback due to be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show next March, the new VXR will feature a racier look thanks to more aggressive bumpers and wheels plus an uprated suspension system and sports interior.

By the time it arrives, the new Astra VXR will have to contend with Ford’s upcoming Focus ST and flagship RS as well as the new Mark VI Golf and next-generation GTI. To give it a fighting chance, designers will add 19in alloy wheels, a roof spoiler and an up-market interior with sports bucket seats, leather trim and aluminum racing pedals.

Replacing the current model’s 237hp 2.0L turbocharged engine will be a new 1.8L unit with a higher 240hp output. The decision to downsize the engine was made in light of tougher fuel-economy and emissions regulations but performance should better the current model (pictured) with the 0-62mph sprint falling in less than six seconds and top speed reaching close to 150mph.

According to AutoExpress, a diesel VXR could also be offered using a 2.0-litre CDTI engine with around 170hp.

The new Astra will also be sold in North America as a Saturn and given the increase in popularity of small cars there’s a strong chance more variants of the new model, including the performance VXR, could be heading Stateside in late 2010.

2010 Opel Astra interior spy shots

2010 Opel Astra renderings

Gallery: 2010 Opel Astra interior revealed

Gallery: 2010 Opel Astra rendering

Reader Comments

Wed Jun 4 2008 12:31 PM
Roy says

Does this mean the US will finally get hot hatchbacks? Will adolescents finally be able to aspire to something that isn't a boat and doesn't pack a hemi (or worse, a Honda Civic)? We've had the Civic Si and (briefly) the Golf R32, but I'm looking forward to fast Fits, hot fiestas and turbocharged Yarises. Bring it on!
Oh, no, we *may* get a slightly warmed up version of the Saturn Astra. My mistake.
Thu Jun 5 2008 1:03 AM
NaBUru38 says

240hp feels warm in a 4.30m, 1400kg car? Jeremy Clarkson said the current Astra VXR/OPC was too powerful: "Had you given a front-drive car this much power and torque even 10 years ago the result would almost certainly have been undriveable, while the Astra simply requires a modicum of restraint to contain" and "It should mince most current hot hatches".
Thu Jun 12 2008 2:27 AM
chris says

sorry but i believe there are typo's in this article.. instead of 'change' they should have used the word 'chance'... both times...

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