The original hot hatch Astra VXR was announced in January 2005 and went on sale in the summer of 2005. Based on the Vauxhall Astra Mark 5, it was fitted with a 2.0i turbo 16V engine (Z20LEH) producing 236 bhp (176 kW). It could accelerate 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.2 seconds and reach a maximum speed 152 mph (245 km/h). Externally it was different from the standard Astra with a central trapezoidal rear exhaust, 18" six-spoke alloy wheels with 225/40R18 tyres (optional 19" 10-spoke wheels), lowered and uprated suspension and VXR front fog lamps and other external styling including spoiler.
