Vauxhall will unveil the Vectra VXR at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 12.

Using an all-new 2.8-litre V6 turbo producing 255PS and 320Nm of torque (236lb-ft), Vauxhall’s engineers have created the most powerful car in the class, with a top speed of 161mph.

The V6 engine takes the car from 0 to 60mph in 6.6 seconds – and from 50-70mph in fifth gear in just 7.6 seconds. A six-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard.

Sales of the Vectra VXR hatchback will begin in November with a pricetag ‘well below £25,000’, says Vauxhall, and it is rumoured an estate version is under consideration, which could appear in the UK as early as spring 2006.