(Wed 20 May 09)

In the same week that it published the details of the most economical car in its 106-year history (see separate story), Vauxhall has formally announced the existence of its fastest-ever estate.

It's the Sports Tourer version of the Insignia VXR and it uses the same 2.8-litre V6 turbo petrol engine also available in the Insignia Elite, but modified to produce a maximum of 321bhp. That's enough to give it a 0-60mph time of six seconds, while the top speed is limited to 155mph.

Just to make sure that this power doesn't let the car get out of hand, the VXR is fitted as standard with adaptive four-wheel drive, an electronic limited slip differential, revised suspension (giving a ride height 10mm lower than standard), Brembo brakes and suitably grippy tyres on 19" (or optionally 20") wheels.

Prices will be announced in the next few weeks, and the VXR will go on sale in the UK this autumn, at which point Vauxhall hopes it will become a rival to the Audi S4 Avant and BMW 335i M Sport Touring.

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