The keen motorist could actually drive in Paul Swift’s precision test. Three attempts by myself at completing the course of carefully placed cones seemed to be well received by some, even though I selected third gear instead of first towards the finish line before enunciating one four letter expletive. I assumed that Paul’s radio mic was switched off…

I appeared to have understood the graceful art of J-turning by accelerating in reverse to fully lock the steering wheel to allow torque to arc you through 180 degrees, less effort than doing a three point turn! More commendable was that chargeable activities like this as well as Caterham’s power sliding went to the charity, ‘Help for Heroes’; an immediacy and relevance felt when you heard one maimed soldier talking about his experience at war.

VXR promotion wasn’t limited to adults either, with karting, trampolining and T-shirt making for the younger ones to introduce and adhere them to the brand, viewed separately from Vauxhall judging by the amount of online forums devoted to ECU re-maps and trackdays. For the sentimentally inclined, there were an array of Vauxhalls from the muscular Lotus Carlton to a ‘Life on Mars’ era Chevette to show evolution towards joyriding Astra GTE to the less ostentatious VXR.

For the celeb hunter, I spotted Fifth Gear presenter and British touring car driver, Jason Plato with his feet up in the canteen whilst Melissa the snapper identified Ricky Whittle who apparently showed his physique in something called ‘Strictly come dancing’. Can you tell that I haven’t renewed my television licence? For Radio 1 listeners, the distinctive tones of ‘Comedy Dave’ aka Dave Vitty were heard whilst Paul Swift parallel parked. 

Judging by attendees and online devotees, the Power Fest achieved its aim of brand awareness with respect to Vauxhall for supporting such a valid charity; just a shame that the timing of the festival (on a bank holiday) and the weather weren’t ideal. Isn’t that ironic?

Words are copyright of Sotiris Vassiliou 

Photos are copyright of Melissa Sutcliffe

August 2010

With ever-increasing efficiency targets, Vauxhall exploits the capabilities of three diesels by offering  two 1.7 units and a two litre, with a 1.3 CDTi due. The petrol line-up consists of five engines; three horsepower ranges of 1.4 that includes one turbo and two 1600 units that renders the 1.8 obsolete. The new Astra not only looks svelte but demonstrates its athletism on tarmac; a firm, surefooted stance with excellent feedback from the speed-sensitive steering and response on the 1.6 SRi Turbo. That was my favourite, compared to the turboless and asthmatic 1.6 SRi and the revvy but raucous 1.7 CDTi. The 1.6 SRi Turbo, married with an optional FlexRide chassis control system, offering three levels of damper adjustment would suit the serious driver. Ellesmere Port’s achievement ticks style, ergonomic, versatility and performance boxes but didn’t leave an impression on me, as there seemed no redeemable feature as it’s such a good all-rounder. Having said that, Vauxhall needs a big seller to interrupt European VW Golf sales and Ford Focus’ unbroken sales success in the UK. Whilst not having the external production quality on par to a VW Golf, the Astra has the capability of challenging the Focus which holds the record of biggest UK sales since launch, in 1998.

The Insignia VXR, also available as Tourer surveyed discretely, like its badging. ‘Brembo’ front brake calipers and 20 inch dark alloys may appear superficial, but highlight a true sporting prowess. VXR brands until now, have been biased with torque-steer, yet this Insignia VXR boasts permanent four-wheel traction to distribute 325PS of power, and an assured driving experience. My main criticism, of both Insignia and Astra is gearchange that is (can anybody identify a synonym?) notchy which does affect acceleration times as the distances between gears could be shorter. These two siblings should provide enough buoyancy to raise the credibility of Vauxhall – and profit which it deserves. A solitary Saab 9-3 X,  identified as an all-wheel drive example was there which I tested in April.  Good luck Saab, so onwards and upwards Vauxhall and with care, General Motors!

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Words, images and film are copyright of Sotiris Vassiliou

December 2009

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