Fans of hot Opels will have to wait until the spring of 2012 for the new Astra OPC, but it will be worth it thanks to a 280hp 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that makes it the fastest Astra ever made.
A top speed of 250km/h is promised by Opel, with 0-100km/h in an estimated 6.0 seconds - though Opel says it will confirm full specifications early next year.
We do know that the Astra OPC, which is based on the recently launched GTC three-door Astra, will be quick round corners. Much of the chassis development has been carried out at the Nurburgring in Germany by "Smokin' Jo" Winkelhock, former touring car ace and all-round quick wheelman.
Winkelhock said: "We have devised a great package that will convince even the most experienced and enthusiastic drivers, and not just on the 'Ring."
Helped along by 400Nm of torque, the OPC also comes with a limited slip differential and Vauxhall's HiPerStrut that has already been seen on the Insignia OPC to help transmit power to the road through the front-wheel drive transmission without excessive wheelspin or torque steer.
Every OPC will come with Opel's FlexRide system to allow the driver to tailor the car's damping, throttle settings and steering feel according to how sporty or relaxed they want the car to be. Uprated Brembo brakes take care of stopping duties.
The OPC comes with new front and rear bumpers with integrated aerodynamic aids, side skirts and twin exhaust pipes. There are also unique alloy wheels, sports front seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and upgraded instruments.
Opel will reveal full performance, mechanical specification, trim and prices, plus on-sale date, early in 2012.