Let's be honest, there is no rational reason for the VXR8 to exist in the UK. Effectively a new-generation Omega with a 6.0 litre engine from a Chevrolet Corvette, it is about as contemporary an idea as a knight wielding a mace. However, we have to admit that the VXR8 is one of life's guilty pleasures - and given that only a few hundred will be imported each year, its gruesome CO2 emissions will not have the opportunity to do that much harm.
The first impression once you get in is that the VXR8 is not totally off the pace for a modern executive saloon. That is not meant in a patronising way, it is just that the interior of the old Monaro felt about 15 years behind the times. This one is not standard-setting, but the interior fittings all seem of reasonable quality and decent design - although its Aussie-specified infotainment system still cannot show station name (RDS does not exist in Australia).Of course, no one is going to sit in this car for very long before turning the key - the only point of this car is what lies under the bonnet.
Blipping the engine gives a satisfying V8 roar, although modern examples do not have the bass thunder of the classic 1960s musclecar V8. Tootling around town, the Aussie bruiser is actually quite civilised. The engine is quiet, the clutch is not too heavy ( a bit of clutch drag from first to second if you are not careful, but it is amazingly light considering the torque it has to contend with) and the gearbox is manageable, if a little slow. The ride is also good - firm, but not crashy.
The first time you open it up though, you discover the veneer of civilisation only goes so deep. Accelerating hard on a greasy, but basically dry dual carriageway, the rear wheels initially gripped strongly until the revs hit 5,000 rpm, at which point they gave up the unequal struggle and went their own way. Although the car continued to point in the right direction, easing off the throttle was the only choice. Not many powerful cars today still rely on the driver's right foot for traction control.
On the plus side, its handling is actually very good, despite its 1830 kg bulk. It is surprisingly eager to change direction (helped by a near-equal 51:49 front:rear weight distribution) and feels well balanced with accurate steering.We are glad that something as characterful as the VXR8 still exists and would recommend it, if only with reservations. It is a rough diamond that has been polished carefully, but it is no BMW.
It has visbility issues, with terrible rear vision thanks to the big spoiler, thick pillars and small mirrors. It also has image issues with its air of being the Mitsubishi Evo's big brother, and some of the people who admire it may not be the sort of people with whom you would like to associate. However, we can't help smiling whenever we see one go past.
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