t's the diesel VXR! With a 200bhp turbocharged CDTI engine, sports suspension and uprated racing brakes, this hot Vauxhall Astra can run rings around more expensive petrol performance cars - and still achieve fuel returns of over 40mpg.

But don't go phoning Vauxhall to book a test drive just yet. The model you see here has been developed by Triple Eight racing - the same people who run Vauxhall's British Touring Car Championship team. And only 100 will be available, through specialist Vaux-hall dealer Thurlby Motors.

However, owners of regular diesels will be able to retro-fit virtually all the modified parts added to the 888 CDTI through the Luton firm's forthcoming VXR Performance Centre, run in association with Triple Eight.