Vauxhall Tigra (04-09) - Review

Unlike alternatives such as the Peugeot 207 CC, the Tigra is a two-seater. But the plus side is that there's decent room for both passengers and even taller drivers will find it roomy enough. The ride quality is good too, which means long journeys aren't tiring, while with the roof down, buffeting from wind isn't too bad. However, the electric roof isn't totally automatic - you have to release two catches first before the top lowers. Of course, the benefit of a metal roof over a fabric hood is not only security but also a warmer cabin on cold winter mornings.

Along with having no back seats, the Tigra is also lacking in cabin stowage, not helped by narrow door pockets. The roof lowers fairly quickly - taking 20 seconds - but one very annoying aspect of the Tigra is the frustratingly slow electric boot. The only way to open it is via the button and it can't be done manually. On the plus side, the boot itself is a good size with 440 litres plus there's an extra 70 litres in a compartment behind the seats. Drop the roof and there's still a useful 250 litres - that's more than a Peugeot 207 CC.

With a cabin lifted from the 2000 Corsa, the Tigra looks dated and bland. The controls are well laid out but there's no feeling of style and it lacks the panache you'd expect in a small convertible like this. Worse still, there's no reach adjustment on the steering column which means taller drivers can struggle to find a comfortable driving position plus the seats are narrow and too firm.