Model tested: Vauxhall Vectra 1.9 CDTi 120 Design
Price: £19,410
Date tested: January 2007
Road tester: Andy Goodwin

Overall rating: 76%
The Vauxhall Vectra is a British institution, and one of the most common sights on our roads. But as a popular choice for fleets, many owners drive a Vectra out of obligation not choice; does it stack up against tough competition?

1. Looks
The Vectra is starting to show its age. Designed to be practical and functional, with so many around it , fades into the background. But there are body kits and alloy wheels available if you want to add desirability.
6/10

2. Looks inside
The cabin won't raise your pulse but the materials are high quality and feel tough. The seats are comfortable and the armrest is in just the right place for relaxed motorway driving.
6/10

3. Practicality
The Vectra is a large car and can seat five. The boot is a massive 500 litres and well shaped for suitcases. The glovebox and central armrest are roomy too.
9/10

4. Ride and Handling
The Vectra is easy to drive, impressing with its hushed ride. It soothes away the miles, and over all but the roughest roads the car remains quiet. Comfortable and refined, it may not appeal to the driving enthusiast.
9/10

5. Performance
The Vectra 1.9-litre CDTi 120 offers decent pace and economy. The 10.5 second 0-60mph time and 124mph top speed are fine for everyday driving.
8/10

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6. Running Costs
The biggest running cost is heavy depreciation. However fuel economy is good and company car tax is on a par with rivals.
7/10

7. Reliability
Vauxhall test its cars to destruction and the Vectra has been subjected to a thorough development process. This can be seen in its reliability so far, with few problems reported.
9/10

8. Safety
Every Vectra comes with six airbags and the head restraints are designed to lessen whiplash injuries. There's a four-star Euro NCAP rating too.
7/10

9. Equipment
All Vectras get air conditioning, a CD player, cruise control, remote central locking and electric windows; posher editions also get alloy wheels plus adaptive front lighting.
7/10

10. X-Factor
The Vectra has a ride and level of refinement which competes with the best cars in its class. It's a practical car which shouldn't let you down as you effortlessly cover mile after mile. It doesn't have class leading looks and dynamic handling, but for the majority of customers it won't matter.
8/10