No, this isn’t Richard Porter’s VXR8 long-termer, but it might just be the one he should have waited for. Although the big Vauxhall has been on sale in the UK for barely a year, it’s already being treated to a few revisions. Amongst them are 20in alloys – £2000 including tyres – and, if you so choose, the opportunity to have your VXR8 painted Heron White. For free.

Perhaps more importantly, there’s also a new engine. The 6-litre LS2 unit is out and the 6.2-litre LS3 is in. But it’s not just a matter of an extra 195cc; the current Corvette’s V8 also brings in high-flow cylinder heads, new pistons and an enhanced valvetrain. Power is up from 411bhp to 425bhp, although torque remains unchanged at 405lb ft, but let’s face it, that’s enough to be entertaining. Especially when it’s mated to the Walkinshaw Performance V8 Supercar exhaust, which does everything short of spit flames. It may cost £1114, but it should be considered essential for the gloriously thunderous accompaniment it provides.

The beefier LS3 does nothing to the VXR8’s 0-60mph time – it’s still 4.9sec – but it does bring superior in-gear flexibility, the thicker mid-range meaning the engine lugs a bit more heartily after 3000rpm. Of course, you still have to put up with the same heavy gearchange, sullen brakes and vaguely rattly chassis, as well as hefty kicks through the steering when those 20in wheels happen across mid-corner bumps.

Nevertheless, the VXR8 remains a lot of car for the money and an interesting option for those who find the likes of BMW’s 335i just a bit ordinary. But do the changes fundamentally improve the car’s character? Not a jot – Porter can rest easy.