Brace Yourselves: A 297bhp FWD Vauxhall Astra VXR Is Coming

As if the standard, 276bhp Astra VXR wasn't enough, Vauxhall has upped the ante and produced this 'Extreme' version with a few horses shy of 300bhp. It's based on the 2013 Astra Cup car, and is a one-off, but we could well be seeing a limited production run 'if public reaction is as positive as expected.'

The power comes from an aluminium 2.0-litre four-pot turbo, and yes, all that power goes to the front wheels. Don't fret though, as the 'normal' VXR with its limited-slip diff does a good job of channelling loads of power through the front tyres, so we'd expect the same from the Extreme. It's light, too. The roof, bonnet rear wing, diffuser and front spoiler - among other things - are all made from carbonfibre, cutting 100kg from the car's weight.

Performance-wise, this thing should be quick. The current VXR manages 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds, so expect a few tenths to be shaved off that in the Extreme. Stopping shouldn't be much of an issue; this thing has 370mm discs and meaty six-pot Brembo calipers.

The car will make its public debut at the Geneva motor show next month.