Vauxhall Astra VXR H
A raw, old-school hot hatch defined by its aggressive styling and punchy turbo delivery.
- Power
- 240 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.2 s
- Top speed
- 152 mph
About the Vauxhall Astra VXR H
The Astra VXR (H generation) was Vauxhall's answer to the mid-2000s hot hatch arms race, prioritising raw power and striking looks over clinical precision. Based on the three-door 'Sport Hatch' body, it featured a Lotus-tuned chassis and a Z20LEH engine that delivered a significant 240 PS to the front wheels. While notorious for its torque steer and firm ride, it was one of the fastest cars in its class, famously setting a front-wheel-drive Nürburgring record in 2008. Today, it is remembered as a charismatic, 'hooligan' alternative to the more refined Volkswagen Golf GTI.
Vauxhall Astra VXR H specs
The Vauxhall Astra VXR H produces 240 bhp (179 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and has a top speed of 152 mph (244 km/h).
| Make | Vauxhall |
|---|---|
| Model | Astra VXR |
| Generation | H |
| Trim | 2.0 Turbo |
| Years | 2005–2010 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 240 bhp (179 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.2 s |
| Top speed | 152 mph (244 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,393 kg (3,071 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 172 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Vauxhall Astra VXR H rarity in CarSpot
The Vauxhall Astra VXR H is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 4 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Vauxhall Astra VXR H fun facts
- The Astra VXR H was the first production hot hatch to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife in under 8 minutes and 40 seconds, piloted by Manuel Reuter.
- Most examples were fitted with the optional 19-inch 'snowflake' alloy wheels, which became a signature design element of the VXR brand.
- The car's suspension was developed in collaboration with Lotus Engineering to handle the high torque output through the front wheels.

