2003 Holden Vectra CDXi review from Australia and New Zealand
"Understated euro sports hatch"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Car had slight pull - corrected with wheel alignment.
No squeaks or rattles (yet).
Glitch with computer info display (fixed under warranty).
Dealer upgraded ECU with wrong firmware - resulted in occasional engine overrun when up-shifting. Quickly diagnosed and fixed with correct firmware.
NB Electronics very complex hence will need servicing at Holden dealer - preferably a larger Holden dealer with specialist Vectra trained technicians.
General comments?
Performance from 3.2 V6 + 5 speed auto very good. Heaps of torque. Chassis very good at getting power down despite FWD - torque steer is minimal. Fuel consumption around 11-12 l/100km - slightly higher than expected.
Handling from factory sports suspension is very good - firm ride yet compliant enough over bumps. Road feel through steering wheel is good.
Brakes are excellent.
Poor rear visibility when reversing.
Driver instrumentation very good. Electronic controls (eg indicators) take a few days to get used to, but once learnt are easy to use.
Cabin comfort good - although rear headroom is limited.
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| Good to drive, terrible to repair |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.2 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 20 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 14800 kilometres |
| Previous car | Holden Vectra |
| Date of Entry | 15th July, 2004 |