Skip advert
Advertisement

Vauxhall Astra VXR - Fast Fleet

Ian Eveleigh is gutted that the Vauxhall Astra VXR's going back soon, just when the weather's starting to turn...

Vauxhall Astra VXR

Ah, spring… Sunshine, a touch of warmth in the air – and drier roads. Just what the Astra needed. Although it’s by no means slow in the wet, the VXR’s inability to convey clearly through its steering exactly how well the front tyres are biting meant much of the winter was spent tip-toeing around corners.

Advertisement - Article continues below

It’s a different story in the dry, though, and with the more friendly near-the-limit behaviour from the Michelin Pilot Exalto tyres that we fitted a few months back (evo 101) I’ve been enjoying digging into the VXR’s talents more than ever.

Shame, then, that KE55’s days with us are numbered. Best I use the lighter evenings to make the most of it while it’s still here.

Running Costs

Date acquiredFebruary 2006
Total mileage34,951
Costs this month£0
Mileage this month1,971
MPG this month28.8mpg
Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Skoda Superb review – an excellent excuse to avoid buying an SUV
Skoda Superb review front
In-depth reviews

Skoda Superb review – an excellent excuse to avoid buying an SUV

The Superb continues to do what it always has: punch above its weight and offer compelling value for money
2 Jul 2026
BMW M240i review – a great value sports car, but better than a proper hot hatch?
BMW M240i xDrive front
In-depth reviews

BMW M240i review – a great value sports car, but better than a proper hot hatch?

The BMW M240i is one of the most affordable new six-cylinder performance cars you can buy – and one of the sweetest, too
2 Jul 2026
Citroën AX GT review – the ultimate forgotten 1980s hot hatch
Citroën AX GT front
Reviews

Citroën AX GT review – the ultimate forgotten 1980s hot hatch

The underdog French hot hatch of the 1980s might just be the most fun to drive. If you can find one.
3 Jul 2026