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Vauxhall Vectra Hatchback 1.8i VVT Design (138bhp)

For:
The Vectra is a quiet and comfortable cruiser, and it's cheap to buy and run

Against:
The handling and cabin feel dated, and resale values are weak



Performance

The emphasis is on strong pull rather than outright power, and motorway cruising is fine. The petrol line-up comprises a 1.8-litre, a turbocharged 2.0, a 2.2 and a 2.8 V6 turbo, while diesel buyers can choose between two 1.9s and a 3.0-litre. The economical 1.8 is a fine choice, although it can be sluggish, so the 1.9 diesels are better. Keen drivers will prefer the 2.0 Turbo.

Ride & handling

The suspension gives a cushy ride on the motorway, but it's not so clever elsewhere. The Vectra feels rather floaty on bumpy roads and it shudders over sharp bumps around town. The steering is direct, but it can weight up suddenly through corners.

Refinement

This is probably the Vectra's strongest suit. Wind and road noise are kept to a minimum, and although the diesel engines become a bit noisy when revved, they settle down to a background hum on the motorway. Most of the controls move with precision, but the rubbery, long-throw gearshift is a weak link.

Buying & owning

The Vectra is primarily a fleet car, so resale values suffer due to the high numbers sold. On the positive side, dealers offer big discounts on already reasonable prices. Fuel economy and servicing rates are competitive and company car tax bills undercut many rivals.

Quality & reliability

Swathes of grey plastic and a bland-looking centre console give the cabin a dowdy appearance. It's not all bad news, because most of the materials are sturdy, but the heater dials and steering column stalks feel lightweight and imprecise. Vauxhall's reliability record is no more than average.

Safety & security

Six airbags are standard, as are pedals that fold away from the driver in the even of an accident. There are also anti-whiplash head restraints and up-to-the-minute braking aids. However, stability control is only a cost option on most models. In spite of comprehensive security kit, including a standard alarm, our testers broke in to the cabin in under two minutes in our last security test.

Behind the wheel

The Vectra comes with a two-way adjustable steering wheel and a driver's seat that moves for both height and angle, so anyone should be able to get comfortable. The ventilation controls are nice and simple, but the stereo has too many fiddly, poorly marked buttons.

Space & practicality

The Vectra is big without reaching the proportions of class giants such as the Ford Mondeo. Six-foot passengers will find kneeroom a bit limited in the back and the transmission tunnel makes life uncomfortable for a central rear passenger. Both four- and five-door models have a large boot.

Equipment

Equipment is competitive, with all Vectras getting air-conditioning, cruise control, a CD player and at least two electric windows. Life and Exclusiv models make do with steel wheels, but these wear plastic covers that look like alloys. Range-topping Elite models have sat-nav with a colour screen.

Running Costs

Town mpg

28

Out of Town mpg

51.4

Average mpg

39.2

Tank Capacity (gallons)

13.4

CO2 Rating (g/km)

173

Insurance Group

8

Typical Insurance Quote

£410

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

32

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£0

Pence Per Mile

0

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£0

Servicing Intervals

20,000

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 6yr Perforation + 3yr Breakdown

Performance & Measurements

Body type

Hatchback

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

5

Engine (cc/type)

1796/4

Fuel Type

Unleaded

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

138/6300

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Front

Length (mm)

4611

Width (mm)

1798

Height (mm)

1460

Boot Space (min ltr)

500

Boot Space (max ltr)

1050

Turning Circle (m)

10.96

Towing Weight(kg)

1400

Kerb Weight (kg)

1390

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