2003 Vauxhall Vectra 2.2DTi SRi review from UK and Ireland

Occasional knocking from the front n/s wheel, only after the car hasn't been used in a while.

Cruise control sometimes fails to engage.

First off the 122bhp 2.2DTi engine is very impressive, with a smooth band of power, unlike the Toyota Avensis D4-D I tried recently which had immense turbo lag.

With this engine you're truly getting supermini economy with V6 punch, on a very quick motorway/dual carriageway run the average fuel consumption wouldn't drop below 50.4mpg, and on the country roads it's generally in the high-40s. Driving at high speeds and overtaking is effortless, and sticking at the speed limit the rev counter will barely reach over 2000rpm. Although the engine is an "old" design it's still pretty damned good.

The interior is well-appointed and specified, with leather heated seats, electric front windows (why no electric rear windows, Vauxhall?? Even ancient mid-range Rovers have this), cruise control, air conditioning, etc. and comfortable on long journeys, however there isn't much legroom in the rear when a full-size adult is in the seat in front of you. The boot as you'd expect is very large. The dashboard seems to be made of good quality materials in most areas, but the silver-painted plastic panel across the dash is scratched already. All the instruments and switches are clear and easy to use.

The car is somewhat "leaden" to drive, with awkward and eagerly self-centring steering, lumpy ride, and a rear end which likes to lose itself over difficult country roads (admittedly it was a big bump and I was travelling quickly, but it's not something I'd expect of a modern car). It has plenty of grip though and despite my best attempts the traction control light scarcely ever flashes.

To sum up I respect it as a machine for economy and long distance, but it doesn't inspire at all. Oh and don't buy new! It'd be like throwing £10k in an incinerator.