Vauxhall VXR8 Bathurst S

Vauxhall models, usually released as Opel outside of the U.K., very rarely find themselves onto the pages of RSportsCars. The Vauxhall VXR8 Bathurst S is not like other Vauxhall models, though. The VXR8 Bathurst dispenses with 560 horsepower by way of a supercharged LS3 V8, and puts that power to the road through a composed and stylish sedan chassis.

The VXR8 Bathurst looks decidedly non-British, with its strange hybrid styling of the large Pontiac G8 GXP, a Ford Fusion or Australian-market Falcon, and perhaps some Holden Commodore thrown in for good measure.

Makes sense; the VXR8 is loosely based from both the Holden and G8 models, featuring the GM-sourced LS3 V8 found in both models. Unlike the G8 GXP, though, the 2010 VXR8 Bathurst S features a true manual 6 speed transmission.

Some may find the VXR8 Bathurst's styling a bit overblown, what with its EVO-esque front end and big side air inlets. Those who appreciate the heft of the car's blower, though, should like these features just fine.

Vauxhall advertises the VXR8 Bathurst S as the cheapest way to get more than 500 PS in the U.K., and no challenger has come out to prove them wrong. A performance bargain at £44,995, the Bathurst S will be in selected Vauxhall dealerships soon.