Vauxhall Vectra (2002-) Review

On the road

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The 2002 Vectra was criticised by some for being a bit of a dull drive, and feeling out of its depth on challenging and poorly surfaced B-roads. Because of this, Vauxhall has tuned the 2005 Vectra's suspension and steering set-up specifically for the UK in a bid to make the Vectra more fun to drive. These changes are limited only to Vauxhall Vectras; Opel versions sold in mainland Europe will receive ride but not steering improvements - something to bear in mind if you're buying an Opel import from Ireland, say.

As with increasing numbers of cars with plenty of electrical gizmos, the Vectra may at first baffle - in this case with its indicators, which take a little getting used to because they require you to relearn an instinctive task. In other respects, the Vectra is a straightforward drive - it's blessed with a very adjustable driving position and generally light controls.

This Vectra is vastly better than the last, because it actually can be fun to drive. It scores particularly with its poised agility over twisty roads, which is no mean achievement in a car this big. The stiffer suspension of the SRi and GSi makes a further difference, too, without compromising on comfort. Road-holding is strong and secure, and the steering accurate - keen drivers will be pleased to hear that 2005 models have tweaked steering allowing for more feedback to be felt through the wheel.

The range-topping VXR model is a particularly swift car, with a sports-tuned chassis and advanced electronic damper control. Body control and cornering stability are remarkable, but this isn't the most fluent or adjustable chassis. It's competent, no question, but just not as involving as the best.

Taken as a model range, though, the Mondeo is the better drive. Enthusiastic drivers may also find the sophisticated electronic stability controls intrusive on occasion - they intervene to control understeer and oversteer by modulating power and braking individual wheels. However, the system's ability to prevent a major skid is mighty impressive and the vast majority of drivers will consider this an excellent safety feature.

Most of the Vectra engines have healthy power outputs for their size and its aerodynamics are above average, too. However, its extra weight has knocked back the acceleration of the 1.8 and 2.2 Vectras compared with the old one, even if the top speed rises. Against the competition, the 1.8 and 2.2 petrol Vectras are no better than averagely competitive, with the Ford Mondeo leaving it behind decisively.

The VXR model, with its 250bhp turbocharged V6, offers excellent on-paper performance with 62mph coming in 6.5secs and a 161mph top speed. In the real world, though, it just doesn't feel as quick as those numbers suggest.

The diesels do a stouter job and are arguably the best drives, V6 excepted; the new 120bhp/150bhp 1.9 CDTi engine (as used in the Fiat/Alfa ranges and the Saab 9-3) is a big improvement over the old 2.0 and 2.2 units, though the 3.0 V6 diesel (as in the Saab 9-5) is rather noisy and lumpy. The V6 petrol is pleasant and relaxed, if not overwhelmingly powerful, though it works well in the refined GSi.