New Malden's British touring car ace Tom Onslow-Cole will have his first taste of Vauxhall power when he takes the wheel of his Vauxhall Vectra in the first test of the new season this week.

The 20-year-old, who recently signed with current champions VX Racing team to contest the 2008 HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship, will join new team-mates Fabrizio Giovanardi and Matt Neal in Southern Spain ahead of the season, which kicks off next month.

For Onslow-Cole, the 2006 Elf Clio Cup Champion, the test marks a return to front-wheel drive following his debut season at the wheel of the rear-wheel-drive BMW last year, which netted him four podiums and his maiden race win.

Now, the BRDC Rising Star drives one of the cars that powered Vauxhall to the Manufacturers' title, it's 18th since it entered the series in 1989.

"I'm really looking forward to getting out in the car for the first time," said Onslow-Cole.

"It will be great to be back in a front-wheel-drive car and the Vectra is the best out there.

"VX Racing's track record is second to none and I'm looking forward to getting to know the team a bit better.

"After the test we will have a good idea of where we are, but I am quietly confident of being up there for the title fight this season."

After the promising 2007, which saw Tom finish the season as top rookie and 10th overall in the championship standings, the youngster has high expectations of a return to the top step of the podium this season.

"And, with the experienced Vauxhall team behind him, Tom aims to help the Banbury-based outfit further add to its 118 race wins when the season gets underway at his local track of Brands Hatch on March 30th.

Full 2008 HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship dates: Brands Hatch 30/Mar, Rockingham 13/Apr, Donington Park 04/May, Thruxton 18/May, Croft 01/Jun, Snetterton 13/Jul, Oulton Park 27/Jul, Knockhill 17/Aug, Silverstone 31/Aug and Brands Hatch 21/Sep.