Bridge Motors in Banbury has been named as part of the exclusive dealer network for Vauxhall's stunning new VX220 roadster, which is due to reach showrooms in November, writes David Duffy.

Just one model of Vauxhall's exciting new two-seater is available, with an on the road price of 22,995.

Customers can also place a firm order for their VX220 the first pure sports car in Vauxhall's 98-year history at their local Vauxhall showroom.

Until now, customers have been able to put down a returnable 'holding fee' of 1,000 by logging on to a dedicated VX220 site on the Vauxhall internet.

A limited network of 50 dealers is being established to provide specialist sales and service support for VX220 owners.

However, any Vauxhall dealer will be able to provide prospective owners with information and details of their nearest VX220 specialist.

Robert Gutsche, VX220 brand manager, said: "The VX220 is a specialist car and to ensure the best customer care we have established a network of dealers who will undergo special training to support the car's specific servicing and after-sales needs.

"As only a limited number of cars will be available, it would have been impractical for the VX220 to be supported through each of the 500 dealers nationwide."

Vauxhall said the final selection of VX220 dealers was based on several factors, including the best geographical spread, showroom and technical facilities.

The VX220 will be produced at a new factory on the Lotus site at Hethel, Norfolk and is based on the basic extruded aluminium design of the Lotus Elise.

Only 3,000 cars a year will be built, between 2000 and 2003, with 1,000 of these annually for the UK market so demand is likely to outstrip supply.

This is something which volume manufacturers love and it will make a change for Vauxhall, used to shifting thousands of Vectras and Astras.

Vauxhall claims a 0-60mph time of 5.6 seconds for the VX220, which is the company's first sportscar since the Prince Henry model launched in 1911!

It is an uncompromising car, from performance to its aggressive exterior lines through to the minimalist interior.

The VX220 scores two Vauxhall firsts mid-engined car and aluminium and composite materials for the chassis and body. These materials are more expensive than steel, but are light and strong.

This is a car for those who love driving and are prepared to make sacrifices.

Those include the absence of equipment like air conditioning, electric windows and central locking which add weight. On wet days you fit a simple soft-top which is stored in a bag behind the seats. And there's a 1,200 optional hard top for the winter.