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Next Vauxhall Vectra VXR will be AWD
By Yoann Besnard on 27 November 2007 | 
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Opel/Vauxhall has decided to go upmarket with the next generation Vectra and will feature an all-wheel drive system on the topping version, the VXR version according to Auto Express and will get two powerful V6 engines.
Based on the GM's new Epsilon 2 platform, the car will not feature the system that appeared on the recently face-lifted Saab 9-3 model. Indeed, it will be equipped with the electronically controlled transmission, which made its debut on the GTC concept car. The four-wheel drive system distributes the power between the front and rear wheels and allows more power to be sent to the rear if any traction loss occurs, especially during acceleration. Associated with a revised active suspension taken from the current model, Vauxhall hopes the car will match the premium brand models such as the Audi S4 or BMW 335i.
The VXR will be available with a choice of two engines. There will be a 2.8 litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine which will likely produces more than 300bhp. It will enable the future VXR to have a top speed of 165mph. Like Renault and its future Laguna Coupe, the next Vectra will be also available with a powerful 2.9 litre V6 diesel unit which will have an output of 247bhp.
In order to break the dull brand image associated with the current Vectra, Opel/Vauxhall will give a new name to the future saloon, Insignia. The car will likely be unveiled at the next London Motor Show in July 2008.
