Vauxhall VXR8

The powerhouse Vauxhall VXR8 is about to get even faster – and this time, it has the storming V10-engined Audi RS6 firmly in its sights. The Luton brand is currently finalising plans to offer a new 7.0-litre version of its supercar-chasing saloon, which will be based on the Australian Holden HSV unveiled at last month’s Melbourne Motor Show. And the British bruiser is expected to be badged the W427 when it arrives in UK dealers in September, carrying a price tag of around £55,000. Although neither Holden nor Vauxhall has revealed a power output for the new machine, unconfirmed reports from Australia claim the engine – which is borrowed from the latest Corvette Z06 – will deliver a massive 570bhp and 640Nm of torque to the rear wheels. As a result, the car would cover 0-60mph in around 4.5 seconds, and go on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. These performance figures would put the four-door in the same territory as the RS6, BMW M5 and Mercedes E63 AMG. As with the 6.0-litre standard model, the newcomer has been engineered by Tom Walkinshaw Racing – hence the use of the letter W in the new W427 name.

The motorsport expert will also prepare the car for British roads with bespoke suspension settings. Australian models get General Motors’ latest Magnetic Ride Suspension, but top brass have yet to confirm whether UK versions will be equipped with the same system.A spokesman for Vauxhall told Auto Express; “We are in the early stages with development. The car is going to feature a number of components developed from the racing version, and we need to make sure that everything is tested properly before customer deliveries start.