2003 Vauxhall Vectra Elegance DTI review from UK and Ireland

Turbo went wrong at 2,500 miles and was replaced under warranty.

Despite not having any further problems, Vauxhall have twice recalled these cars to have the turbo software changed, but each time I have not noticed any difference.

Windscreen split after stone chip and cost over £350 to replace - lucky it's a company car, but two of my colleagues have had new windscreens due to the same problem.

I think that there is a weakness in the windscreens near the pillars.

I am not a fan of these modern looks and I think it is the ugliest car on the road along with the Toyota Avensis.

If it were my money I would have bought a Rover 75, but judging my how many of these cars I see with bonnets up at the side of the road, they are about as reliable as Peugeots. I think that the hard shoulders of the motorways were invented for these makes of car, judging by how many of them I see parked there each day.

Happy to report that Vauxhall Vectra is as reliable as my old Cavalier, so I have managed to avoid this problem.

Even when the turbo shut down, the car switched to an emergency program and allowed me to keep driving instantly.

This car is surprising fast and pulls all the way to beyond legal speed limits effortlessly.

The only thing stopping the car going any faster is my self-control and realisation that I am only mortal.

Fantastic fuel economy, considering what it delivers in power and acceleration.

Fabric cloth is a type of velour which although comfortable does seem to get dusty very quickly and is difficult to get clean.

Rubber football style dashboard took some getting used to, but I like the brown wood effect, even though it appears to be an after-thought.

Trip computer is ideal for monitoring fuel consumption since I have to use BP garages for company fuel card.

Nice powerful air conditioning unit, but would still like a sunroof as well like the old Cavaliers.

Cruise control has saved me on the speed cameras many times and idea for long trips, but sadly this does make you realise just how inconsistent motorway driving speeds are as I am constantly having to adjust it thanks to Mr 55MPH and Mr 90MPH.

Controls are awkward and indicators are annoying as they cancel when you don't want them to and don't cancel when you do.

Many times I have been behind another Vectra and witness the poor driver's indicators flashing left, then right then left as he fights to turn them off.

Since ordering Star Silver, I now realise how common they are, especially at the annual conferences when silver fills the car park.

I now hate the colour Silver on any car.