We say A solid, comfortable car with plenty of space inside and a decent engine line-up. It’s also bland and the cabin is a disappointment too.Performance Loads of engines are available. Picks include pretty much any of the diesels or the 2.0-litre petrol turbo. The VXR engine is incredibly powerful, topping out at over 160mph, which is frankly ludicrous for a large family hatchback-cum-saloon.Emissions Emissions and fuel economy figures are best on diesel options in the Vectra’s range. The 1.9-litre CDTi 118bhp diesel is likely to be one of the most popular choices in the Vectra range and returns 49mpg and emits 154g/km in CO2 emissions.Driving Good suspension makes it a great cruiser, and grip is good. The Vectra won't like being slammed around corners though, and if you try that in the VXR you're heading for spin city. High-spec Sri models have lower suspension setups and offer a much firmer ride.Feel The Vectra is most suited to motorway cruising and it’s extremely comfortable over long distances. It isolates wind, road and engine noise well however some of the diesel engines can be quite throaty when pushed.Space Good space for five adults and both saloon and hatch models have a large boot, worth a whopping 500-litres on hatchback versions. There’s also lots of storage options throughout the interior as well.Equipment Air conditioning, cruise control, a CD player and front electric windows are standard.Price Running costs and list prices are good, but residuals are likely to be appalling. Prices start from around £15,000 and rise to almost £27,000.Quality Pleasant and durable inside, if dull, as is the case with the majority of Vauxhall’s on the market. There’s very little wrong with the cabin layout or its materials, it’s just not a sleek or interesting wheel to sit behind. Vauxhall's mechanicals are usually strong.Safety Six airbags including side curtains are standard, active head restraints ABS are also.Pros The Vectra hatchback or saloon makes for a brilliant motorway cruiser because of its driving setup. Its comfortable and solid and offers plenty of space for all passengers and a large 500-litre boot at the rear.Cons The Vectra’s drive and handling disappoint while the interior is similarly dull. Petrol engines are underpowered and force buyers towards more expensive diesel units.Alternatives Ford Mondeo, Renault Laguna, Toyota Avensis, Honda Accord, Mazda 6
