2013 Vauxhall Astra VXR

Highlights

• The most powerful FWD hot hatch at the time of launch

• Turbocharger replaced by Vauxhall in 2016

• Remapped to produce circa 350bhp

• Well-specified example

• Upgraded clutch with lightweight flywheel

Overview

Regarded as one of the high-points of Vauxhall’s VXR-badged back catalogue, the MK6 ‘J’ Astra GTC VXR (to give its full name, though henceforth it will be referred to simply as VXR) was designed to take the fight to the likes of the Renaultsport Megane 250 and Ford Focus ST, and claimed the title of ‘most powerful FWD hatch’ at the time of launch, pipping the ST by 30bhp with a quoted output of 280bhp, though many testers found both the power and torque figures to be pessimistic from Vauxhall when put on a dyno.

With its attractive bodywork, well-specified interior and great handling, the VXR offered a more grown up, refined alternative to the ST or Megane 250, and it proved a hit with both brand loyalists and those looking for a do-it-all hot hatch alike.

This example is finished in an attractive colour combination of white with black VXR aero accents over a black leather interior, and boasts a number of desirable options such as an upgraded sound system, premium forward lighting pack (the standard lights were said to leave a lot to be desired) and more. The turbocharger - one of the only real reported issues with these J-series VXRs - was also replaced by a Vauxhall main dealer in 2016, which should give the next owner plenty of peace-of-mind. This is also a slightly spiced-up example, producing circa 350bhp - that’ll certainly give those STs and Meganes a run for their money!

History and documentation

• First registered 18 Jun 2013

• V5 in owners name

• Stack of MOT certificates

• Current MOT with no advisories expires 26 Apr 2026

• Service invoices

• Invoice for clutch replacement in Nov 2016

• Upgraded clutch March 2021 inc lightweight flywheel

• Stamped service book as follows: Jun 2013 (PDI), Sep 2013 @ 1,155 miles, Dec 2013 @ 5,605 miles, May 2014 @ 10,089 miles, Apr 2015 @ 15,629 miles, May 2015 @ 17,589 miles, Aug 2016 @ 26,121 miles, Mar 2017 @ 28,330 miles, Jul 2019 @ 43,042 miles

• Turbocharger replaced in Aug 2016 by Vauxhall main dealer

• Options include navigation system, Infinity premium sound system, premium forward lighting pack, rear parking sensors, TPMS sensors

• HPI clear

Interior

• Black leather interior in very good condition throughout

• Upgraded Infinity sound system

• Both front seats are in excellent condition, as are the rear seats

• Light abrasion to the outer bolster of the drivers seat - commensurate for a car of this age with high-support bucket seats

• Being particular, the carpets/over-mats would benefit from a valet, but looks to be free of any damage or heavy wear

• In the rear, the boot is clean and tidy

• Under the floor, the tyre compressor is present, as is the emergency foam

• No reported faults or issues from the seller

Exterior

• White bodywork with matching wheels

• Contrasting black spoiler, VXR badges and front wing trims

• VXR aero pack

• Up front, the usual smattering of stone chips is visible, but this is typical of a performance car such as this

• The seller notes there is a small dent in the passenger door, and a repaired crack in the nearside side skirt

• Looking along the flanks of the car, the bodywork looks to be nice and straight, save for the aforementioned dent/crack

• There is a small crack in the paintwork by the boot release handle

• The paintwork on the front and rear bumpers is a little flat, and looks to be a slightly different shade of white

• The rear bumper in particular looks to be poorly painted, with a large area of bubbling/texture on the nearside

• We’d also note that the fitment of the front/rear bumpers requires some adjustment

• All four wheels are free of any kerb damage or rash, with the tyres also reported to have plenty of life left

• We can see a little paintwork flaking on the inner barrels of the wheels

Mechanical

• 1,998cc turbocharged inline-four 16v engine producing 280bhp from the factory

• We’re told that this VXR has been remapped and tuned to produce circa 350bhp

• Six-speed manual transmission, sending power to the front wheels through a Drexler mechanical limited-slip differential

• Factory-spec Brembo Brakes

• Straight-through exhaust with a Scorpion rear silencer

• Upgraded clutch with lightweight flywheel

• New fuel Pump in 2019
• Uprated intercooler system fitted 2018, with upgraded solenoids

• Our photographer reports a rattle from the clutch when in neutral

• No other reported faults or issues from the seller

Summary

Well-specified and upgraded to give it even more poke, we have no doubt that this Astra GTC VXR will humble plenty of more expensive cars off the line, all whilst being about as practical as a three-door hatch can get, which puts it firmly in the camp of ‘sensible fun cars’ as far as we’re concerned! With less than 57,000 miles on the odometer, this is also on the lower-end of the mileage scale in the current market, meaning with a little paintwork tidying up, you could have yourself a very smart everyday performance car that gives you plenty of enjoyment when asked.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Swindon, Wiltshire.