Vauxhall Vectra Saloon (05-08) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 08 August 2008
Originally launched in 2002 the Vauxhall Vectra underwent a mid-life revision in 2005 that included changes under the skin which made it better to drive. It also got a new look front end but unfortunately this did little to lift the anonymous looks. The cabin is just as plain with a slabby design that lacks style but even worse is the awful button layout on the centre console and the lack of storage. The changes to the chassis made it more composed on the move but while it's safe it lacks excitement and it's not as controlled or sophisticated as newer rivals like the Ford Mondeo. On the plus side it's comfortable on the motorway and there's some good diesel engines available. But with the hatchback available the saloon seems superfluous.
4 out of 5

Safety

The Vectra was awarded a four star rating for crash safety by Euro NCAP but newer rivals all have five stars. All cars come with six airbags though plus three-point safety belts for all seats, seat belt pretensioners in front, belt-force limiters in the front and rear, as well as height-adjustable safety belt pivot points in front and rear. This is complemented by the Vauxhall safety system, which includes the patented automatic Pedal Release System (PRS) and active head restraints in the front with seat back support to further reduce the risk of whiplash injuries.

NCAP Test

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Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    4 out of 5
  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    1 out of 5
4 out of 5

Reliability

The Vectra is a dependable car with few problems reported.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.