Supples’ Pub

Edmunds Inside Line has a first drive of the Vauxhall VXR8 aka Holden Commodore SS aka Pontiac G8. What most stuck out to me was the curb weight noted: 4,037 pounds. This is about what I expected, given the larger sedan body built around a similar chassis as the GTO/Monaro.

The LS2 is of course used and a T-56 is available, but they praise several aspects of the VXR8 which will likely not appear in the G8. The suspension is wonderfully tuned with light, communicative, and precise steering. There are large four-piston brakes and 19″ wheels with 20’s optional. I’m going to bet none of this great stuff makes it into the U.S.

They will soften up the suspension (higher end versions offer variable magnetic damping like the Corvette, we won’t get that either), dial in understeer galore (expected, but disappointing), and put smaller brakes on the car.

Maybe I’m cynical because that is exactly what they did to the GTO. While the GTO was likely a cost & efficiency play given the limited, planned 3 year run, my skepticism remains. I hope GM proves me wrong and introduces a well balanced machine that handles 400HP RWD in stride with its 2-ton curb weight.

Link to First Drive: 2007 Vauxhall VXR8