VAUXHALL has released the first pictures and details of the new Vectra Estate, on sale in this autumn.

The Estate shares the same wheelbase as the Vauxhall Signum and has virtually the same load space as the Omega, with more rear leg room.

The ingenious interior follows a Vauxhall family theme, designed with a range of practical features for storage and accommodation and extra comfort and amenities for rear passengers.

A new feature is Vauxhall’s latest practical solution to the needs of family motoring - FlexOrganiser.

The latest addition to the Flex family, FlexOrganiser, permits easy, secure and clearly arranged storage compartments in the boot. Using two rails built into the rear side panels, a flexible system of nets and foldable dividers can be attached to create separate cargo spaces.

Travel Assistant, first seen in Signum, will become an option later. It includes two folding tables, a cooler, cup-holders, two 12-volt power outlets, and a holder for a portable DVD player. Twin Audio allows passengers in the rear to listen to separate programmes (radio or CD) to those in the front.

The three-seat rear bench split-folds 60:40. A folding front passenger seat is also available.

An electronically operated tailgate can be opened and closed with the push of a button on the car key or from inside the cabin, and can be stopped midway or at any height and locked into position.

A foldaway trailer hitch is a practical option. Located out of sight under the rear bumper, the hitch can be unlocked by releasing a lever in the boot and then moved by foot into position and locked into place.

Engines include the three newly developed aluminium power packs offered with the Signum: the 155hp 2.2-litre petrol direct injection unit, the 175hp 2.0 turbo and the 177hp 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel CDTi. Top engine is the 211 hp 3.2 V6.

Driving comfort and dynamics benefit from the long wheelbase and Interactive Driving System. Night-time vision is dramatically improved by the option of Adaptive Forward Lighting.

The new Vectra Estate is built in Rüsselsheim, Germany.

Prices will be announced closer to launch date.