Vauxhall VXR8 Hatchback (2007 - 2009) review

At a glance |
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New price | £34,835 - £36,265 |
Used price | £8,830 - £17,585 |
Used monthly cost | From £220 per month |
Fuel economy |
Not tested to latest standards
View pre-2017 economy specs
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Road tax cost | £630 |
Insurance group | 50 How much is it to insure? |
PROS
Characterful V8 engine, strong performance, plenty of road presence, good value
CONS
Lacks refinement and sophistication, thirsty engine and high emissions
Vauxhall VXR8 rivals
The VXR8 effectively replaces the Monaro in the Vauxhall line-up but rather than a two-door coupe, this is a four-door saloon. It has the same brutish character though with aggressive looks and a rumbling V8 engine that produces more than 400bhp. That means it can accelerate from 0-60mph as fast as a BMW M3 or an Audi S4, but while it has thunderous performance, it lacks a little in finesse.
It’s decent value though and comes well equipped as standard, while the interior is well put together, although not particularly upmarket. But what the VXR8 does have in abundance is the feelgood factor and as a result it’s a very engaging car to drive.