Like its European twin sibling Opel, Vauxhall introduced a facelifted version for the second generation of the renowned Vectra, which was already on its third generation.
With the hatchback version, the Vauxhall Vectra offered a mix between the regular sedan and the station wagon. While it wasn't as spacious as the latter, it offered more trunk space than the former. In addition, it also provided a sleeker look for the car in the same way as a four-door coupe vehicle, but at a lower cost than other similar vehicles available.
Vauxhall redesigned the entire front fascia. It didn't make just some small changes. There was a new pair of headlights swept back over the hood and front fenders and a new grille. Its bumper sported new side scoops and raised outer sides. But the changes stopped there. The long greenhouse with a sloped tailgate remained the same, having the standard rear window wiper. The only difference was that the wiper was blade-style, not with the old system with brackets. Vauxhall didn't change the taillights nor the chromed trim from the trunk.
Inside, the carmaker introduced a new infotainment unit with different buttons. Also, the instrument panel featured encircled dials and gauges. Another improvement was for the steering wheels, which received a new, three-spoke design and re-arranged buttons.
Under the hood, the GM installed a few new engines. Part of them, such as the 1.8-liter, was already Euro 4 compliant, but others were not. The most significant change was the introduction of the 2.8-liter turbocharged V-6, which replaced the older 3.2-liter unit built by Holden in Australia.