Vauxhall Vectra

New Vectra's A Kit Of All Right

More choice and better value - that's what buyers of the new Vauxhall Vectra can expect. A fresh entry model and a host of new options have been added to the line-up. And even though standard specification has been increased, prices remain mostly unchanged.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Ross Pinnock

06th July 2005

Set to hit showrooms in October, the Vectra range will kick off with the new Exclusiv model. Priced from ΂£14,750, it replaces the Expression and has air-con plus six airbags as standard.

Life and Design variants benefit from improved specification, too, with the latter now coming with automatic air-con and rain-sensitive wipers. The flagship Elite gets a colour sat-nav screen and a sportier bodykit. Meanwhile, the SRi features a contrasting interior with chrome air vents.

A high-performance 246bhp Vectra VXR will join the line-up late this year in place of the GSi. A pair of sporty styling packs will also be available for lesser models. The VXR I option has 18-inch alloys, front skirts, extended side sills and a rear spoiler for ΂£650. VXR II adds 19-inch wheels and a deeper bumper for an extra ΂£550.

On a more practical level, a towing pack will be available for the Vectra and Signum (second image). For ΂£850, it includes ESP with a Trailer Stability Programme, a detachable tow bar and auto-levelling suspension. Changes to the Signum line-up include the replacement of the 3.2-litre V6 petrol engine by a new 225bhp 2.8-litre turbo. This will be offered on the flagship Elite with a new six-speed auto box. All 2.2 Signums and Vectras get a six-speed manual transmission.