(Wed 15 Apr 09)

Vauxhall has revealed most of the details about its new high-performance Insignia, which is being called the VXR.

The on-paper specification is quite something. The VXR uses the 2.8-litre V6 turbo petrol engine which is already found in the Insignia range, but in this case uprated to produce 321bhp. That's 20bhp more than the Ford Focus RS, and leads to a similar 0-62mph time of around six seconds, but the VXR is a step ahead of the RS in that it has four-wheel drive.

Also like the RS, the VXR has a front suspension system (called HiPerStrut, for "High Performance Strut") designed to limit torque steer. Other features include the electronic equivalent of a limited slip differential, a ride height 10mm lower than that of the Insignia SRi, Brembo brakes and 19" wheels (or 20" if you want to pay extra for those).

The VXR has a very similar specification to the GTC Concept display at the 2007 Geneva Show, and it even looks like it thanks to the deep front bumper and the mesh grilles on either side of the main grille. Other styling highlights include a rear spoiler and a special rear bumper with twin matt chrome exhaust tailpipes.

Inside, the VXR has Recaro front seats, a new steering wheel, non-standard instrument graphics and, of course, VXR branding all over the place. The available colours are Arden Blue, Power Red, Carbon Finish Black, Silver Lake, Olympic White (pictured) and, rather soberly, Technical Grey. Prices will be announced, according to Vauxhall, "soon".

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