Search Car Reviews



See all makes

Vauxhall Vectra

Vauxhall Vectra SRi

When Vauxhall set its heart on a sporty Cavalier to attract a younger, more performance-oriented breed of buyer in the mid-Eighties, it came up with the name SRi. Seventeen years on, the badge is set to get pulses racing all over again - on a tuned version of the all-new Vectra hatch, primed to bridge the gap between mainstream models and the range-topping GSi.

By Euan Sey

July 2002

  • Rating:
When Vauxhall set its heart on a sporty Cavalier to attract a younger, more performance-oriented breed of buyer in the mid-Eighties, it came up with the name SRi. Seventeen years on, the badge is set to get pulses racing all over again - on a tuned version of the all-new Vectra hatch, primed to bridge the gap between mainstream models and the range-topping GSi.

Unlike the last-generation car, the SRi is now available only in four-cylinder form. Buyers can choose between an entry-level 1.8-litre, a 2.2 turbodiesel and this 134mph 2.2 petrol model - likely to account for most of the 12,000-odd SRis expected to sell each year in the UK.

Visual modifications include a discreet boot spoiler, more aggressive-looking bumpers, a cross-hatch front grille, colour-coded side skirts, smoked indicator lenses and 17-inch multi-spoke alloys. Combined with suspension that lowers the car by 20mm, this gives the newcomer the edge it needs to stand out from the crowd without cramping the style of the more powerful GSi.

More to the point, it has endowed the Vauxhall with a depth of ability that is unmatched in the ί¿½17,000 family car price bracket. The Vectra's core values - comfort, refinement and practicality - remain (save for more road noise from the low-profile tyres), but the SRi handles with a new-found precision that makes it truly rewarding on twisty B-roads. Re-tuned steering has sharpened its responses, while the stiffened suspension and wide-track rubber provide enough stability to allow you to push to the limit in confidence. Add in the smooth power delivery and slick (if overly long) gearshift and you've got a package which adds real sparkle to the Vectra range.

Tell us about your car in our Driver Power survey.

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

0 Comment

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

More VAUXHALL VECTRA articles


Related Index Pages

- Advertisement -

Pictures

Sponsored Results

Find Used Cars

Find your Vauxhall Vectra with our used car search.

Find Used Cars

FIRST OPINION

    If you can't quite stretch to a flagship Vectra GSi, the SRi offers visual aggression and dynamic ability at a price that won't break the bank. Although not as wild as the GSi, the new Vauxhall scores with affordability and driver appeal, and looks sure to be a hit.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Vectra SRi out now at �17,000
    2.2-litre engine offers 145bhp
    Sprints from 0-60mph in 9.2 seconds; top speed of 134mph
     
    - Advertisement -