V8 muscle: Vauxhall VXR8

Vauxhall has announced the VXR8; the all-new replacement for the Monaro muscle car and Auto Trader has the first pictures.

Based on the Australian Holden HSV Clubsport V8, the dramatic rear-wheel drive supersaloon will be powered by an uprated version of the Monaro VXR's 6-litre V8 engine.

The four-door VXR8 develops 414bhp and 405lb/ft of pulling power, giving it a 0-60mph time of just 4.9 seconds and a top speed in excess of 170mph.

Vauxhall claim it is capable of slowing from 60mph to standstill in less time than it takes the BMW M5 or Lamborghini Murcielago.

The Vauxhall VXR8 will also be the first model in the sporty VXR range to be offered with an automatic gearbox.