As promised, Opel/Vauxhall revealed the Extreme version of the Astra VXR hot hatchback a few days prior to its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The Astra Extreme is a carbon-crazed mentalist with 300 horsepower, all of which is sent to the front wheels.

Opel has a history of making over-powered front-wheel-drive cars, but with this one they took things to a whole new level. Opel Astra VXR Extreme is not only more powerful than a standard VXR, it is also 100 kg lighter, thanks to the extensive use of carbon fiber, which is the materials used to build the rear wing, the diffuser, front spoiler, bonnet, suspension cross-bracing, engine cover, wheels, rear wheelhouse ventilation and roof.

Inspired by the Astra Cup race car that competed in the Nürburgring Endurance Championship, Astra VXR Extreme gets a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. As mentioned, the engine makes 300 horsepower, which the Extreme an awesome power to weight ratio. It’ll also make a lot of chaos round corners by producing tons of understeer and torque steer – theoretically, at least.

Opel has of course taken precaution to cope with the ferocious performance of that powertrain. Apart from the aerodynamic body kit and the sport suspension, the VXR Extreme is also fitted with Brembo six-piston brake system including 370mm diameter discs at the front, and special 19-inch wheels with high-performance tires.

The interior of Opel Astra VXR Extreme is very race car-like, what with the Recaro bucket seats, six-point safety belts from Schroth and a carbon-fibre-reinforced, suede-covered steering wheel with fine yellow decorative stitching. But luxury amenities have not been removed, since Opel is planning a low-volume production run for this car.