Vauxhall has released details and official pictures of the new Corsa VXR. Due to be shown at the
Geneva Motor Show in March and going on sale shortly after, the VXR looks set to cause a stir in the small hot hatch market. Continuing the upward spiral of power in the sector the VXR boasts a competitive 189bhp from a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine.
That slug of power is enough to allow the Corsa to surge to 60mph in 6.8 seconds and push all the way onto 140mph. The VXR features all of the prerequisite styling touches to mark it out as something special. Heavily sculpted front and rear bumpers, side skirts, a rear spoiler and 18-inch alloys provide the aggressive looks whilst the triangular central exhaust is in keeping with the VXR range's cues.
Inside, there are heavily bolstered sports seats and a VXR-branded steering wheel whilst the detailing on the dials, fascia and gear lever ensure you're always reminded of the fact you're in something special. The Corsa hasn't forgotten its place as a practical and economical hatch though and manages to return 35mpg on the Combined Cycle.
Prices have yet to be confirmed but expect the Corsa to align with rivals such as the Clio Renaultsport 197 and come in at around the £14-15k mark.
Dave Jenkins - 5 Jan 2007