VAUXHALL has lifted its game with the latest Vectra series.
Restyled inside and out and given revised handling it also comes with the latest Euro IV compliant 1.9-litre diesel engine in 150 or 120PS outputs.
I tested the new specification Exclusiv, a mid-range version, with the highly economical and low ownership cost 120PS engine. This not only offers savings when buying but its running costs are more attractive than the 16v 150PS derivative.
The Exclusiv package includes standard multiple airbags with latest generation seat belts, advanced braking and traction control systems, panic brake lights, air conditioning, two-tone horn, cd-player, three spoke steering wheel, offset rear split and cloth upholstered seats and bright trim detailing.
The workmanlike but well thought out equipment combines useful and desirable features and brings them together in a well-sized and sorted car which will delight owners of the existing Vectra as well as impress drivers of rival models.
The key to the new range is the very latest, highly sophisticated 1.9 TDi engine with its low exhaust emissions. The four-cylinder engine has eight valves in the 120bhp versions with 150bhp engines benefitting from 16 valves making them smoother but with a busier note at higher revolutions.
The more restrained performance of the eight-valve engine still allows the Vectra to keep up with the traffic flow in general conditions and it feels brisk and responsive.
I like the useful power delivery from low engine speed, the flexibility mid-range and the relaxed motorway performance. Its economy is remarkably good and easily achieved.
The six-speed gearbox has a light clutch and a good change action with well spaced ratios up to fifth but I found myself sometimes hunting between fourth and sixth gears when I wanted to make progress. The brakes are well balanced and powerful and the steering is sharp.
The most irritating feature of all has to be the one-two touch indicators which can send you off down a road flashing left and right alternatively if you try to cancel in a conventional manner instead of applying a second touch in the same direction as the first. Confused? So are most other drivers on the road.
Big, clear and well marked instruments are welcome as is the efficiency, clarity and simplicity of the heating and ventilation system.
Oddments room is plentiful throughout and the bootspace is very big with a low lip to load over while passenger access is easy and there is a lot of leg and headroom in the Vectra.
Ride quality is softer than I remember on the previous generation Vectra but it handles well with good grip and feel.
All noise levels are low, the most noticeable, but still not intrusive, being the road rumble from the tyres and suspension.
There is a strong feeling of the Vectra 1.9 120 Exclusiv being a well rounded and honed car - an immense improvement on the previous model.
FAST FACTS
Vauxhall Vectra Exclusiv 1.9 CDTi (120) 5dr
Price: £15,750
Mechanical: 120bhp, 1,910cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 124mph
0-62mph: 10.5 secs
Combined mpg: 49.6
Insurance group: 10
CO2 emissions: 154g/km
BiK rating: 17%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000; 6yrs anti-rust