The VXR uses a 237bhp version of Vauxhall’s turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine to deliver blistering acceleration. While it’s rather flat at low revs, there’s a massive surge as the turbo gets into its stride and launches you forward. When the VXR is flat out, most rivals simply won’t be able to keep up.

The Astra’s suspension and steering have been modified to deal with the glut of power, and a very good job Vauxhall has done. Only if you accelerate hard will the steering wheel start to lighten and twitch in your hands, but even if it does, you remain in control. There’s good grip through corners and the steering guides you accurately and keeps you informed. The ride is firm without being uncomfortable and isn’t upset by poor surfaces.

Because of its wider tyres, the VXR kicks up more road noise than lesser Astras, but wind noise is still well contained, so it’s a fine motorway cruiser. While the engine is docile and quiet at low speeds, there’s a sporty snarl to the exhaust and a lot of noise from under the bonnet as the revs increase.

The VXR costs £1000 less than its key rival, the Golf GTI, but long-term ownership costs are higher. The turbocharged engine is very thirsty, while high carbon dioxide emissions put it into the 32% category for company car tax. A group 17 insurance classification means premiums will be high. Residual values are better than other petrol Astras’, but not as strong as the Golf’s.

The Astra is up with the best cars in its class for interior quality. The materials used are appealing to look at and touch, while everything feels well put together and built to last. Vauxhall’s engines have a reputation for good reliability and we don’t expect the VXR’s to be a cause for concern.

The VXR has a comprehensive array of safety equipment – anti-lock brakes and front, side and curtain airbags are fitted as standard, along with a stability control system that, even when switched off, cuts in to stop the car sliding off the road. Deadlocks are fitted to deter determined thieves.

Apart from aggressively bolstered front seats and a few sporty touches, the VXR’s interior is practically identical to the standard Sport Hatch’s. There’s a good range of adjustment for the driver’s seat and steering wheel, but the centre console is overly complicated. Forward visibility is fine, but small windows and large pillars obstruct the view to the rear.

The Astra provides decent head- and legroom for four adults, but rear-seat passengers get a rougher deal than they would in the Golf GTI. Similarly, the boot is a useful size and shape, but it isn’t the biggest around and the entrance is rather awkwardly shaped.

A list price of more than £21,000 is an awful lot for an Astra, but you get ample power and decent equipment. Air-conditioning, 18-inch alloy wheels, electric front windows and mirrors and a CD/MP3 player are standard, while there’s leather trim for the steering wheel, gearknob and seat side bolsters. Options include full leather upholstery, satellite-navigation, larger 19-inch alloy wheels and climate control.