There are quite a few cars you see in the classifieds now that make the early 2010s seem even longer ago than they actually are, and the second Vauxhall Astra VXR most certainly qualifies as one. These days we’re lucky to get a tepid Vauxhall GSe hybrid; things have gone awfully quiet on that funky-looking Monza EV. But back in 2012 there didn’t really seem much doubt that fast Vauxhalls of all shapes and sizes would continue pretty much indefinitely. How naive we were…
Even with the silly stuff gone by then, there was still a Corsa VXR, an Insignia VXR (including the 170mph Supersport), and even a 150hp, turbocharged Adam from 2014. And that’s only 11 years ago. The mere idea of a fast Vauxhall seems fanciful in 2025, let alone a whole range of them. We’d take an SUV VXR by now - once Meriva has been done then nothing’s off limits…
Still, the absence of new ones invariably makes the old ones even more interesting. Because even if the 280hp Astra VXR didn’t have the finely adjustable handling of a Megane or the interior ambience of a Scirocco, it was still a 2.0-litre turbo, six-speed manual hot hatch with a host of clever chassis hardware and pace to spare. When there were other hot hatches around, the VXR was never quite the class of the field; these days it looks a glorious reminder of the recent past. Especially with the aerokit and in dark blue.
This particular example appeals as a low mileage (43k) that’s said to boast plenty of service history and benefits from a fresh, advisory-free MOT this week. The button bonanza of a dash still seems in good shape, as do the giant bolsters of the bucket seats; we’ve definitely seen the 20-inch wheels look a lot worse than this. The asking price is £10,890, which is actually what a similar car cost a few years ago. Used car values must be doing something strange if even Vauxhalls are holding onto their money. If they continue, then great news; but even if it does begin to depreciate, it’s hardly a lot to start with. And one like this will surely remain desirable in years to come. Especially if Vauxhall does the decent thing and brings some kind of VXR back…
SPECIFICATION | VAUXHALL ASTRA VXR
Engine: 1,998cc 4-cyl, turbocharged
Transmission: 6-speed manual, front-wheel drive
Power (hp): 280@5,500rpm
Torque (lb ft): 295@2,400-4,500rpm
MPG: 34.9 (NEDC combined)
CO2: 189g/km
First registered: 2015
Recorded mileage: 43,500
Price new: £26,995 (before options)
Yours for: £10,890
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