Vauxhall Monaro I (V2) gallery (2004–2007)

The Vauxhall Monaro arrived in the United Kingdom in 2004 as an official rebadged import of the Australian Holden Monaro (V2 and VZ series), riding on General Motors' rear-wheel-drive V-body architecture. Engineered as a grand touring 2+2 sports coupe, early models were powered by an all-aluminium 5.7-litre GM LS1 small-block V8 producing 333 bhp in standard trim and 382 bhp in the high-output VXR variant. Power was directed to the rear wheels via a Tremec T56 six-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic transmission with a limited-slip differential. A major mid-cycle refresh in 2005 brought distinctive aggressive twin bonnet scoops, revised dual exhausts, and the introduction of a larger 6.0-litre LS2 V8 engine generating 403 bhp for the flagship Monaro VXR. The Monaro earned widespread acclaim for its charismatic muscle-car soundtrack, muscular styling, and accessible performance until imports ceased in 2007 ahead of the saloon-bodied VXR8.