Vauxhall Vectra I (A) gallery (1988–1995)
The first generation established GM's modern front-wheel-drive mid-size platform under the Cavalier Mk III nameplate in the UK.
Introduced in 1988, the first-generation Vectra (A) served as the foundation for the UK's Vauxhall Cavalier Mark III on General Motors' GM2900 platform. It replaced the Cavalier Mk II, bringing class-leading aerodynamics with a drag coefficient as low as 0.29 alongside substantially improved crash protection and chassis rigidity. It was available as a four-door saloon and a five-door hatchback. The engine range featured GM Family I and Family II petrol engines ranging from 1.4 to 2.0 litres, highlighted by the renowned red-top 2.0-litre 16V engine in the GSi 2000 and the 204 hp turbocharged four-cylinder in the four-wheel-drive Turbo model. A smooth 2.5-litre V6 was introduced in 1993, while diesel duty was handled by resilient 1.7-litre units engineered with Isuzu. Power was transferred via five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions. A cosmetic facelift in 1992 brought a body-coloured grille, revised rear light clusters, and side impact protection beams.
