Incredible tech, comfortable drive, smart styling and efficient engines make this car a monster

Introduction:

At first, launched in 2002, the Vauxhall Vectra underwent a mid-life review in 2005 that included modifications under the skin which made it enhanced to drive. It also got a completely new look front end but unluckily this did little to lift the unspecified looks. The cabin is just as plain with an ordinary design that is deficient in style but even worse is the dreadful button layout on the centre comfort and the lack of storage.

The alterations to the chassis made it more collected on the move but while it’s safe it misses excitement and it’s not as restricted or sophisticated as newer competitors like the Ford Mondeo.

In addition, it’s easy on the motorway, there is some good diesel engines existing and the boot is large and simple to access. There is also abundance of affordable examples on the used market creating it a fine value second hand buy.

Engines:

There’s a broad choice of engines and trims offered in the Vectra initiating with the entry-level 1.8-Litre. This firstly had 120bhp but was rapidly replaced by a VVT version which bragged 138bhp and was more inexpensive too. It’s one of the most admired engines in the Vectra and calm enough but can feel strained along with four people on board. The sturdy 2.2-Litre engine has 150bhp and is effortless but with a normal economy of 34mpg it makes little sense.

If you’re only after a performance Vectra there is a superb 2.0T model mainly with 172bhp that’s pleasurable to drive and far more contented than the VXR. The other petrol engine is the 2.8-Litre V6 (initially with 225bhp but later updated to 250bhp in 2006) but while this engine is effortless, smooth and sounds good, it’s very parched and looks pointless in the Vectra.

It’s no shock that the diesels are more admired and the excellent 1.9 CDTi available along with 120bhp or 150bhp is the finest engine in the line-up chiefly with strong in-gear pace. Both versions have 50mpg economy and emissions of 154g/km of CO2, so it’s fine to go for the 150bhp which has perceptibly more pulling power. The other diesel is a 3.0 V6 CDTi along with 181bhp but though this is quick with a 0-60mph time of almost 8.2 seconds it’s not appeal the premium over the 1.9-Litre diesel.

Handling:

The Vectra had appeared to look and feel old-fashioned before these changes in 2005. Facelifted models were expansively reworked under the skin and on the shift the Vauxhall feels poised and controlled with good quality comfort levels credit to a smooth ride. It’s far more appealing than the version it replaced, and is much appreciated in Europe.

Although the steering lacks a little of the feel presented by cars like the Ford Mondeo and Mazda6, but for many of the drivers, the Vectra will look just as good. Sportier SRi models some along with lower suspension for more lowered body roll and amplified stability in sudden direction changes, though the ride is somewhat firm on its larger wheels.