THE Corsa VXR is Vauxhall's pocket rocket and the British brand's competitor in the hot hatch market.

It pumps out 205ps from its 1.6-litre turbo engine and sprints to 60mph in just 6.5 seconds.

Performance alone isn't enough in this sector and hot hatches also have to look the part and Vauxhall have certainly hit the target with this effort.

It looks the business thanks to a front air dam, rear spoiler a vent across the edge of the bonnet, a rear diffuser and alloy kick plates.

Some bright colours and substantial alloys complete the boy-racer looks.

This car came with the added Performance Pack costing an extra £2,400 over the normal £17,995 asking price and that gives you larger alloys,KONI shocks, Brembo brakes, and a Drexler diff.

You also benefit from a traction system that can be switched into competition mode, an exhaust which roars from twin Remus pipes and some extra body kit - enough to tempt any hot hatch fan.

Based on the new Corsa which went on sale a few months ago, the VXR is up against strong rivals like the Fiesta ST, Renault Clio Sport and the VW Polo GTI but it has them all beat for sheer power.

It is really quick and surprisingly is considerably cheaper than the old model it replaces.

On the road or track it is extremely agile and quick to change direction. It responds to every touch of the throttle and offers bags of grip. It will entertain even serious enthusiasts but gets a bit nervous if you try and put too much power through the front wheels for a quick start.

Top speed is 143mph and the VXR makes light of overtaking at any speed.

The substantial Recaro sports seats keep you in place even when you are chucking the VXR through tight corners and the six-speed short-throw stick is great fun to use.

The ride is very much on the firm side and if you don't want to live with that you should opt out of the performance pack and save yourself some cash.

I averaged about 35mpg - just short of the claimed official combined figure of 37.7mpg - not bad for a performance car.

Only available as a three-door, the VXR can carry four adults in reasonable comfort and boot space is decent as is cabin storage space.

Standard equipment is generous and the interior is well put together and the infotainment system easy to operate from the touchscreen.

Metal pedals and a flat bottomed steering wheel are additional sporty touches and the VXR also benefits from a nice soundtrack.