Vauxhall Monaro I (V2) gallery (2001–2004)

The first-generation Vauxhall Monaro is a powerful rear-wheel-drive V8 performance coupe imported to the UK market from Australia.

The first-generation Vauxhall Monaro, based on General Motors' rear-wheel-drive V-body architecture (V2 series), was essentially a rebadged version of the Australian Holden Monaro tailored specifically for the British market. Built exclusively as a sleek two-door sports coupe, it marked the introduction of a genuine muscle car into the modern Vauxhall portfolio without having a direct predecessor under this nameplate. Power came from GM's robust 5.7-litre naturally aspirated LS1 V8 engine, delivering high performance and a rich exhaust note. Power was transmitted to the rear wheels through either a six-speed Tremec manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic transmission. The car offered a comfortable four-seater cabin layout combined with solid grand tourer capabilities and substantial standard equipment. The primary target market for this Vauxhall-badged variant was the United Kingdom with right-hand drive configuration. Over its production cycle, the lineup saw the introduction of upgraded performance derivatives, including enhanced suspension components, sharper steering, and special high-output versions such as the VXR specification.