AFTER the successful introduction of the VX220, Tigra, Astra and latest Zafira models Vauxhall has now turned its attention to the heavily revised Vectra and Signum series.
Visually different from the front with a completely revised styling forward of the windscreen, the latest Vectra and its stretched Signum stablemate also get a reworked dashboard and revised trim levels, but it is under the skin that the biggest changes have taken place.
The powertrain is a blend of the new and the familiar-but-improved and most of the development has gone into a comprehensive modification to the steering and suspension designed to improve ride and handling. By fitting a smaller wheel, Vauxhall has also enhanced feedback.
An all-new V6, 2.8-litre, turbocharged, 230PS aluminium petrol engine is added to the Vectra and Signum ranges and the three-litre V6 CDTi diesel engined has been revised with lower emissions and power output raised to 184PS.
Both ranges now have the option of four petrol engines, 1.8 to 2.8-litres with power outputs from 122-230PS and three CDTi common-rail diesel units from 1.9 to three-litres with 120-184PS power options. Six speed boxes are extensively used.
In addition Vauxhall has added a high-value, low-price Exclusiv model to the Vectra five-door hatchback and estate model line up. Exclusiv is also available on four of the seven Signum model derivatives.
Vauxhall has been very keen to retain fleet business and accordingly cut some prices to reduce Benefit in Kind tax with prices now ranging from £14,750 to £26,745.
The 160mph Vectra VXR will join the new range in November at under £24,000 and its Estate derivative hits showrooms in January for around £1,000 more.
The best selling Vectra 1.9 TDi SRi with its 150bhp engine produces excellent through-the-gears acceleration and composed cruising once you adjust to its sluggishness from rest.
Again, good controls and a balanced suspension produce a satisfying drive over nearly all types of road surface. A soft-feel fascia is welcome but different interior surface styling and tints would brighten it up even more for £18,745.
If you want a big and practical estate the Vectra SRi 3.0 CDTi takes some beating at £22,645. The very powerful engine is extremely smooth and economical returning over 32mpg in mixed conditions.
Vauxhall also seems to have happily overcome the traditional problem of big estates in balancing ride quality when lightly or heavily laden. I think this car is one of the motor industry's best kept secrets in the showrooms.