Milton Keynes-based tuning company Thorney Motorsport will show two highly tuned performance Vauxhalls at the Autosport International motor show in January: a Corsa VXR with 230bhp and an Astra VXR with 300bhp. An extra "R" on the badge indicates the models' status.

The Astra VXR-R's 2.0-litre turbocharged engine has been tuned to produce about 40bhp more than the standard VXR. That translates to a claimed increase in top speed to 170mph and 0-60mph in under five seconds. To deal with the extra performance Thorney has fitted a limited-slip differential, four-piston racing brakes and lightweight alloy wheels.

The Corsa VXR-R is slightly less extreme with a 20% increase in power. No performance claims have been made but the Corsa features suspension, transmission and brake upgrades.

Both Corsa and Astra feature VXR-R badges and detailing. The Astra costs £26,295 while the Corsa is £22,495, which includes a three-year warranty. Customers wanting something between the VXR-R and the standard VXR can opt for Thorney's lower-priced VXR-S.

Details of the VXR-S will be announced at the Autosport International show, which opens on Thursday 8th January with public days on 10th and 11th January.

To win tickets to the show, go to our competitions page.

John Lambert - 22 Dec 2008