Super-saloons have it tough. They need to be supple for the saloon day job, but also taut enough for the times the ‘super’ alter ego gets loose. Some, such as the M5, use adjustable dampers, allowing you to tailor the car to your mood. A similar system is available on Australian VXR8s, but UK-bound cars do without; it’s one setting for all eventualities.
Over a typical B-road, where the surface refuses to level and there’s the odd crest and compression, the VXR8 remains unfazed, the long wheelbase and weight helping to isolate the worst intrusions. It’s also decently comfortable for long-distance cruising.
Where the VXR8 struggles is on short, sharp impacts, particularly at the rear. Unloaded, the effect on passenger comfort is not huge, even if the suspension can be heard working. But ask it to cope with additional loading and the situation worsens, with the occasional severe thud. More concerning still, under extreme braking we experienced a violent judder from the back axle, a problem we understand Australian testers have also experienced.
If the ride quality is not everything we’d hoped for, the VXR8’s handling is a revelation. Despite its size and weight, the VXR8 changes direction with enthusiasm and controls body movements well. The steering is vastly improved over the Monaro’s – still a little slow off centre, but a more manageable 2.7 turns and decently weighted. You’ve got a much clearer idea of what’s happening at the front and less work to do should the rear break free. Not that a wayward tail should be a problem, for the VXR8 has impressive adhesion and the ESP is well judged.