Vauxhall VXR8 with Corvette engine

The current Vauxhall VXR8 is powered by a e 6.0-litre V8 engine. But this is not enough to target sports-cars like Audi RS6, BMW M5 and Mercedes E63 AMG. And this is why Vauxhall will launch a new version of its VXR8, this time powered by a 7.0-litre version of the Corvette engine.

The new model will be badged the W427 and will arrive at the UK dealers in September with price tag of around £55,000.

The W427 will be based on the Australian Holden HSV unveiled at last month’s Melbourne Motor Show. With a maximum power of 570bhp and 640Nm of torque the car will cover 0-60mph in around 4.5 seconds, and go on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

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.”