VAUXHALL has taken a battering over the years from the motoring Press because of its reputation for producing, at best, average cars.
Despite lavishing huge expense on the new Vectra - introduced last year - the car has hardly received glowing reviews. Even the most complimentary comments have only gone as far as to say it's not as bad as the first version in 1995.
That original was criticised for virtually everything, but in particular its dull styling and indifferent ride and handling. Yet the model still managed to clock up more than 500,000 sales.
This figure should now rocket because with the new Vectra, Vauxhall has produced a decent car which is bound to prove popular among family drivers and sales reps alike.
The version I've just test driven is the 3.2i Elite - and I found a lot to like about the mid-size car.
For a start it looks pretty good. Okay, Vauxhall may not have been over adventurous in the styling stakes, but it has still managed to produce a car which appears fresh and purposeful.
I was also impressed with the interior, with its mix of dark, soft-touch materials, leather, chrome and wood effect. I can see why some say the cabin looks boring, but for me it works quite well in an understated sort of way. Tasteful, would be another way of describing it.
Equipment levels are also good and include heated/electrically adjustable front seats, cruise control and four-disc CD autochanger. There are also lots of storage compartments in the passenger cabin and a huge amount of luggage space in the rear.
On the road the 3.2i Elite is a very smooth and powerful performer. The V6 24V engine produces a more than respectable 211PS which takes the Vectra from start to 60mph in just seven seconds.
Reps will be pleased to know the self-shifter is a very capable overtaker on the motorway and offers a comfortable ride. Steering feels very light but is also responsive.
But it's not all good. I absolutely hated the touch-sensitive indicators which left me endlessly wondering if I was indicating correctly. Rather than clicking into an up or down position, the indicator lever returns to its starting point immediately after you press it. Surely Vauxhall could have used the traditional system?
Company car drivers should also beware because CO2 emissions are very high. The Vectra is also quite thirsty, coming in at just over 26mpg combined
There is also evidence the new Vectra has weak residual values which means you could lose a fair amount of cash in depreciation.
Overall, however, I liked the new Vectra - although it's unlikely to rescue the car maker's reputation for excelling in producing bland cars.
FAST FACTS
Vauxhall Vectra Elite 3.2i V6 24V
Price: £20,950
Mechanical: 211bhp, 3,175cc, 6cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 153mph
0-62mph: 7.0 secs
Combined mpg: 26.4
Insurance group: 14E
CO2 emissions: 257g/km
BiK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 6yrs anti-rust