Power would appear to be the name of the game for Vauxhall as the Luton based manufacturer will use the Geneva Motor Show to unveil two of its most powerful models.
Set to hit UK streets during the summer the new Astra VXR is sure to grab most of the headlines. Packing a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine the VXR will be the most powerful Astra model ever produced with 280hp and 400Nm of torque on tap. Based on the recently launched GTC underpinnings, the VXR benefits from the addition of a mechanical limited-slip differential, large Brembo brakes, FlexRide adaptive dampers and a raft of bespoke chassis modifications, which will allow it to take the fight to rivals such as the Focus ST and Golf R.
Appearing alongside the Astra VXR will be the Insignia BiTurbo, which, with a 195hp and 400Nm twin-sequential turbocharged engine, is Vauxhall's most powerful ever diesel car. Despite the power the BiTurbo engine is also remarkably clean emitting just 129g/km and capable of returning better fuel economy than the 160hp single-turbo 2.0-litre CDTi.
Geneva will also mark the first outing for the Qashqai rivalling Mokka crossover. Previewed at the Detroit Show as the Buick Encore the Mokka is due to enter dealerships towards the end of the year and will be offered with a choice of two petrol engines (a 115hp 1.6 and a 140hp turbocharged 1.4) and a 130hp 1.7-litre diesel. Available in either front- or all-wheel drive configurations the Mokka is set to bring a range of cutting-edge technologies to the compact SUV segment. These include Advanced Adaptive Forward Lighting, High Beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Alert systems.
Vauxhall will also bring a futuristic e-bike called the RAD e design study to the show. Packing a 250-watt motor the bike is said to offer the perfect alternative for customers who need to be mobile when car use is restricted or not possible. Indeed...
Paul Healy - 8 Feb 2012