Attention HSV: your new car is ready

Holden performance operation, HSV, has had its eye on the European-developed Insignia VXR (or Opel Insignia OPC in Germany) for some time now (more here). After months of rumours and leaked information comes the real deal figures from Vauxhall and they make very interesting reading.

Vauxhall has placed high expectations on the Insignia VXR believing it can take on European high-performance sedans from Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

"The Insignia VXR is not just about absolute power, but a combination of usable performance and chassis sophistication which is the match of premium rivals, such as Audi's new S4," says Andy Gilson, Vauxhall's Marketing Director.

"In essence, it's an ultra-fast performance saloon that will appeal to buyers who appreciate subtle yet distinctive styling, but who need to know that there's real substance below the car's metal."

As expected the car is powered by a 2.8-litre V6 with twin scroll turbochargers that produces 242kW. It's enough power to propel the VXR from 0-96km/h in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h.

It is sent to the tarmac through an Adaptive 4x4 electronic limited slip differential that comes from Saab's 9-3 Turbo X. Also helping the handling is unique "HiPerStrut" front suspension that has been developed to cut torque steer and maintaining negative camber while cornering.

Stopping power is provided by vented and cross-drilled Brembo brakes that sit inside 19-inch (or optional 20-inch) alloy wheels.

In addition to the exterior treatment that includes new bumpers and a subtle rear spoiler the VXR also features a special interior. VXR steering wheel, gearknob, sill plates and Recaro seats are all standard.

No pricing has been released for the car yet but it is expected to come when the car make sits public debut at the Barcelona motor show on May 7 in Opel guise.

Now it's up to HSV to build a business case for the Insignia Down Under...