A true British sports car with Lotus DNA, the Vauxhall VX220 is praised for its lightweight body and thrilling rear-wheel-drive balance.
The Vauxhall VX220 was built with just one purpose in mind: driving pleasure. It shines with precise steering, featherlight agility and a raw, driver-first character. Its aluminium chassis was developed by Lotus, giving it a pedigree instantly felt on the road. Produced from 2000 to 2005, buyers can choose from a 2.2-litre naturally aspirated model, a 2.0-litre Turbo introduced in 2003, and the ultra-rare VXR220 track-focused version. It offers bold styling with standard ABS and a driver airbag, appealing to those seeking a spirited, distinctive roadster ideal as a weekend toy or second car.
Superb handling and steeringDistinctive design with real rarityEnergetic performance across all versions
Limited comfort and practicalityReplacement parts can be difficult to track downTricky to drive in poor weatherThe VX220 comes with ABS and a driver airbag as standard, which is an unusual bonus in such a stripped-back sports car. The mid-engine layout gives balanced handling. There are no modern driver aids, so it rewards careful, confident driving, especially in wet conditions.
At launch, the VX220 had a 2.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 144bhp. In 2003, the 2.0-litre Turbo raised output to 197bhp, while the VXR220 pushed power to around 216bhp. Each version is exciting, with the Turbo and VXR especially powerful.
The cabin is deliberately simple with an analogue instrument cluster, heater, and the option of a basic radio. It focuses on driving engagement over digital extras, making it ideal for purists.
Thanks to its light build, the VX220 achieves decent efficiency for a sports car, with up to 40mpg on the motorway from the 2.2 model and high-30s from the Turbo. Pushing it hard reduces these figures, but overall running costs remain fair.
Check closely for accident damage or poor repairs, especially around the clamshell panels and the crashbox behind the grille. For the Turbo, ensure the cambelt has been changed on time. A professional inspection, such as an AA Vehicle Inspection, is recommended before purchase.
With proper maintenance, the VX220 is usually solid. Major mechanical faults are uncommon, but bespoke bodywork and specialist components can be expensive and harder to source. Owners praise its dependability, but specialist servicing and rare parts may require extra budget.
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