THERE's lots of movement and changes going on within the Vauxhall range: new Vectra and Signum models are on the way, and a new hot Astra is pulling on the leash for its September debut.

With Vauxhall's marketing gurus exclaiming that the Vectra and Signum offer "sharper looks, sharper dynamics and sharper prices" you would be forgiven for thinking that the new versions would cost a whole lot more than the outgoing models.

But that is not the case: in fact prices for most models have been carried over from the present models.

Starting with the Vectra, a new Exclusiv model will permanently replace the entry-level Expression, and will cost from £14,750. Its specification list includes air conditioning, six airbags and an eight-way adjustable driver's seat.

In addition, the cost of moving up to one of the 1.9-litre CDTI diesel engines has also been cut by £450 compared to the outgoing models.

Prices for the Vectra Life are unchanged, but the specification adds a fold-down armrest and chrome cabin detailing. Design trim models get electric rear windows, an eight-way adjustable passenger seat, automatic air conditioning, rain-sensitive wipes, an anti-dazzle rear view mirror, automatic headlights and a remote control power tailgate for estate models. Yet again, there is no increase in price.

On top of the Design equipment level, the luxury flagship Vectra Elite has been kitted out with a colour-screened satellite navigation system, sportier front end styling and ambient interior night lighting, also for the same price as the outgoing car.

A VXR version of the Vectra is due later this year, developing upwards iof 255PS, and this model will in fact replace the existing GSi.

The more spacious new Signum range is in four trim levels - the Exclusiv, Elegance, Design and Elite, and as before all models are fitted with a satellite navigation system as a standard fitting. The Elegance and Exclusiv have both been given chrome-effect air vent controls, while the Design model is fitted with rain sensitive wipers, an anti-dazzle rear view mirror, automatic headlights and ambient interior night lighting. Elite models get a colour monitor with split screen facility for the sat nav, ventilation and audio controls.

There is an all-new 230PS 2.8-litre V6 24-valve turbocharged petrol engine launched with the new models, replacing the present normally-aspirated 3.2-litre V6, and it will sit in Elite models linked to an all-new six-speed automatic gearbox.

Other changes across both Vectra and Signum ranges include a six-speed gearbox as standard on 2.2-litre models, while the 3.0-litre CDTi diesel gets a power boost taking it from 177PS to 184PS. Incidentally, while the 3.0-litre has been given more power, it is still compliant with projected European exhaust emission figures.

Vauxhall is offering a range of options with the cars, and these are known as Plus Packs.

A new Astra VXR is launched in September with an entry price a fiver under £19,000. Providing a massive 240PS and high performance to go with it, the 2.0-litre turbocharged VXR can dash from 0-62mph in 6.2-seconds.

The impressive performance is managed by a highly-tuned front-wheel drive chassis developed with sports car maker Lotus. It is also fitted with the largest front disc brakes ever fitted to a Vauxhall other than on the Monaro.

For drivers who like their moments on the road to be really exciting, enthusiasts can opt for the innovative continuous damping control system, ensuring an impressive ride and handling combination.

Based on the three-door Astra Sport hatchback, the VXR is easily recognisable by 18-inch wheels, body-coloured V-grille, ground hugging side skirts, rear spoiler and some neat detail touches such as its blue front and rear brake callipers and stylish VXR badges. Not happy with 18-inch wheels, then 19-inch options are available for £500.

Updated: 10:47 Friday, July 22, 2005