Supercharged Vauxhall VXR8 GTS

Only a very select clientele will buy the 2014 Vauxhall VXR8 GTS, but it’s the kind of car that should gratify every true petrolhead.

Based on the new Gen-F GTS built in Australia by Holden’s HSV subsidiary, the rear-wheel drive saloon features a supercharged 6.2 litre LSA V8 engine that produces an impressive 576 bhp (430 kW / 585 PS) with 740 Nm (545 lb/ft) of torque.

Performance figures have yet to be released but, as Vauxhall is keen to point out, the VXR8 GTS boasts a higher output than either the BMW M5 or Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG.

And then there’s the price. While those German rivals cost £73,750 and £73,745 respectively, the latest VXR8 is priced at £54,999 with a six-speed manual gearbox (for those who prefer two-pedal driving, an automatic transmission is on the options list).

Of course, some brand snobs might be put off by the Vauxhall badges and depreciation is an unknown factor, but the VXR8 GTS is still a comparative bargain. In fact, it’s hard to see how the £54,999 figure was arrived at as in Australia the HSV Gen-F GTS is A$92,990. At current exchange rates, that equates to about £59,200...

Deliveries of the Vauxhall VXR8 GTS are due to begin at the end of the year.

Related posts:
2013 Vauxhall VXR8 Tourer
2014 Chevrolet SS revealed
VF Commodore SSV revealed
Holden VF Commodore unveiled

Images © General Motors.