VAUXHALL'S all-new Vectra is the start of a new chapter for the company in the midsize market segment. Engineered to high standards throughout, the model includes IDS, or Interactive Driving System, an innovative new chassis system, and offers high comfort and safety levels and a spacious interior.

The new Vectra will make its world premiere next March at the Geneva Motor Show with sales beginning in Europe shortly after.

Production will begin in January, 2002 in Russelsheim, in Europe's most modern car plant. Production of the hatchback model begins at Ellesmere Port in April following its own £200 million investment.

The new midsize model will be launched as a four-door saloon and five-door hatchback, and with four-cylinder ECOTEC petrol engines ranging in power from 124PS to 147PS and diesels producing 100PS to 125PS. Vauxhall also offers a five-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift function for the first time on the Vectra.

Vectra's new distinctive design is a template for future Vauxhall models.

Clear-cut contours emphasise the larger dimensions of the new car. With a longer wheelbase (+ 60mm), wider track (+52mm front and + 48mm rear) and a higher roof (+ 36mm), the new model offers significantly more interior space than its predecessor, while efficient aerodynamics and sophisticated sound suppression make the new Vectra particularly quiet, both inside and out.

It also features a new integrated electronics system, intelligent electronic climate control with air quality sensor, a wide range of communication and entertainment systems, eight-way adjustable front seats, rain sensor and park-pilot.

Passive safety equipment includes as standard front, side and full-size curtain airbags, Vauxhall's patented pedal release system and further improved active head restraints for protection from whiplash.