2003 Vauxhall Vectra 3.2 GSI review from UK and Ireland

Nothing.

Beautifully understated, a real barnstormer of a car. Big, comfortable and I am able to get my piano and PA system in the boot without even lowering the back seats. Absolutely laden with kit and an excellent pair of HID headlights for really safe dark winter motoring. Cornering is superb, and road-holding excellent, although it is a little upset on poor road surfaces, such as where HG-V's leave a 'dent' in the road. It can sometimes be a little difficult to 'climb out'.

Economy very good. Although I have not had the car very long, a quick trip to E. Sussex (85 mile round trip) gave 37 mpg. Speed maximum 65 mph and gentle acceleration. At no time have I had worse mpg than 26.

Although understated, it seems to attract a small amount of attention by people who know their cars. Unfortunately, boy racers in their pathetic Novas and Saxos are shown an embarrassing clean set of heels, as are the company reps in their Passatt Turbo diesels.

It must be one of the cheapest cars to insure (£323 41 year old male clean (totally) licence) which is capable of at least 155mph, and a hell of a lot cheaper than the less well built and rather commonplace Suburu Impreza. It is also a lot less lightly to attract the attentions of the vandalistic element in today's society.

The upholstery and fittings are of very high quality, and although the indicator switchgear has come in for some criticism, I have got used to it and quite like it now.

Safety equipment is exemplary, more airbags than you can shake a stick at, and the whole feels very, very study and safe.