Geneva Motor Show 2014: Vauxhall Astra VXR gets Extreme track version

The Vauxhall Astra VXR Extreme has made its Geneva debut, promising much more track focus than ever before. It's based on the Astra VXR hot hatchback and features design cues from the Cup racing car, which last year competed in the Nurburgring Endurance Championship.

Power has increased to 300PS, up 20PS over the standard car, while the overall kerbweight has been reduced by 100kg. That combination means a reduced 0-62mph time of less than 5.9 seconds, far stronger all round performance.

Based on the specification of the VXR Cup racing car, the Astra VXR Extreme uses carbon-fibre components including the bonnet, roof and rear wing, as well as under the skin. In a further nod to the racing car on which it’s based, buyers get Recaro racing seats and harnesses. There are also 19-inch tyres and larger, more powerful brembo brakes. 

The Astra VXR Extreme comes 10 years after the launch of the VXR brand and it will go into limited production later in the year. It’s not clear precisely how many will make it to the UK. Expect a fairly hefty premium over the standard, £27,260 car.

>> Follow our LIVE coverage of the Geneva Motor Show on the 4th of March