New Vauxhall Corsa VXR to start from £17,995

Offering hot hatch performance figures and stylish tweaks over the standard Corsa supermini, the Corsa VXR is one of the go to models for petrol heads.

Scheduled to reach showrooms in May, the new Corsa VXR model boasts a punchy 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 202bhp. This powertrain is capable of shifting the VXR from zero to 62mph in just 6.5 seconds, and offers a top speed of 143mph.

The 1.6-litre unit is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox with a short-throw gear lever, allowing for swifter gear changes on the road.

To enhance driving dynamics, Vauxhall has worked closely with damper-supplier Koni to create a new Selective Damping (FSD) system which helps keep the car composed on the road at all times. There is also a new two-stage switchable electronic stability programme (ESP) and traction control. This gives drivers more control over how much the ESP system intervenes while on the move.

For those who want to spruce up their VXR models even more, the optional £2,400 Performance Package adds larger 330mm-diameter Brembo front brake discs, 18-inch alloys, Drexler limited-slip differential and Michelin Pilot Supersport tyres. The performance pack has features previously seen on the likes of the outgoing Nürburgring and ClubSport models - both based on the previous generation Corsa VXR.

Along with its enhanced performance figures, the new Corsa VXR comes with a host of enhanced equipment.

On the outside, all VXR models now sit 10mm lower, feature side sills, sports grille and bumpers, bi-xenon headlights and a rear spoiler as standard. Interior wise it offers Recaro sports seats, unique VXR speedometer on the instrument panel, sports pedals and an IntelliLink infotainment system.