You might expect Holden...

You might expect Holden to import the Astra OPC (it stands for Opel Performance Centre), sold across Europe, as the firm normally uses Opel models for such projects. But the RHD Griffin is better suited to Australians, who also drive on the left side of the road.

It"s also thought Holden bosses preferred the UK-style Vaux-hall suspension on the VXR. The springs and dampers are tuned specifically for British roads, but the settings are considered to be more suited to Oz tarmac, too.

It wouldn"t be financially viable for Holden to create its own high-performance Astra, given the expected low sales, so all the firm has had to do to the Astra is replace the Vauxhall badge. The VXR tag will also be carried over, and the remaining internal and external decals are unchanged - but as a result, buyers will be left wondering why their HSV Astra VXR wears a V-grille.