The Vectra interior has a simple design, clearly laid out and decorated by flashes of metal trim. The steering column-mounted controls, the indicators and wipers, are electric switches which in the case of the indicators, flash several times if lightly pressed or until a turn has been made if pressed more firmly which can be hard to judge. Familiarization comes with time, but not without making unnecessary indications which is irritating.

Also, the Vectra estate is a large car, with extremities that can be difficult to guage, so parking manoeuvres can be tricky – the optional parking sensors make life much easier.

The Vectra remains one of the more comfortable cars in its class, capable of munching motorway miles with little effort. It will take five adults with relative ease while air conditioning and electric front windows are standard on entry-level models. Engines are refined on the whole, particularly the 2.2i petrol engine, with little road or wind noise at speed.

The extra power of the revised 1.8 makes it more relaxing to drive than before.