Vauxhall Cavalier Hatchback 1988-
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Good ones can be bought at very reasonable prices.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not too bad. 220 spent on 100,000 mile service, but that was at a Vauxhall dealership - could have been cheaper.

  • On the road

    Driving

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Rolls badly. Great acceleration from 25-40mph in third - otherwise solid rather than spectacular. Excellent visibility. Very good mpg for the size of car. Built for the motorway, but fine in town.

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Good when the turbo kicks in, otherwise, solid rather than fun.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Engine and bodywork fine at 100,000 miles.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Looks better in profile than from 45 degees to the front. Otherwise, good for giving the impression you don't care about image.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Good for the size of car. A little noiser than many newer cars.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not worth most thieves time - though I had my Vauxhall hub caps nicked which at 16 pounds each was a nuisance. No such problem with Halfords' own make.

    Service

    2 out of 5 2.0

    My local Vauxhall dealership didn't even know the correct tyre pressures.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    None.

    Other

    Needed replacement break discs on the rear at 100,000 miles labour rather than parts the main expense, so might be better fitted at a cheaper, independent garage.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes