2000 Vauxhall Vectra GLS review from UK and Ireland

Warm start can take a few seconds, sometimes cuts out immediately afterward. This developed at about 30000 miles, and has worsened considerably at 38000. Engine temperature sensor has probably packed in.

Erratic idling (since 28000 miles). I believe this is known as "Vectra-itis"!

Nice comfortable drive - long journeys are no chore. We do a lot of miles, so simple things like comfy and easily-adjustable seats make the difference between enjoying and suffering a journey.

Plenty of space in the front and back, and the boot's massive. I can fit guitar, amp and speaker cabinet in the back, and still give 3 or 4 mates a lift to the gig! One thing though - the seat pockets aren't deep enough to stick a road atlas in without it coming out when you open the door.

The car packs plenty of muscle. Acceleration and overtaking is responsive, especially between 2500 and 3500 rpm. The car will go up a reasonably steep hill in fifth at 40 mph without complaining, which is considerably better than my previous Astra.

The fuel economy's okay - the worst I've had is 350 miles out of the 60 litre tank (27mpg) (all-urban driving). Once you get out on the motorways and open roads, you can easily get 450 to 500 miles out of one tank, even with the air-con on (35-38mpg). Hopefully this will improve after the imminent service when I won't be going to Vauxhall's Masterfit people.

Dealer service is a bit lacking. The mechanics at our local Masterfit didn't do most of the things I'd pointed out, and had the cheek to razz my car about whilst I was looking on - I was not amused, to say the least. I've been led to believe that this is pretty much par for the course for main dealers, so the next service will be at a local specialist.