The Vauxhall Vectra C CC 3.0 V6 CDTi 24V ECOTEC, produced between 2005 and 2008, represents a significant iteration in Vauxhall’s mid-size family car lineage. As part of the Vectra C generation, the “CC” designation denotes a ‘Comfort Coupe’ body style – essentially a five-door hatchback with a more streamlined, coupe-like roofline. While the Vectra nameplate was well-established in the United Kingdom and Europe, it wasn’t directly sold in the United States. The Vectra C aimed to compete with rivals like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 407, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance. This particular variant, powered by a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine, was positioned as a premium offering within the Vectra range.
Vauxhall Vectra C CC: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra C CC sought to modernize the image of the Vectra, moving away from the more conservative styling of its predecessors. The five-door hatchback configuration provided enhanced practicality compared to traditional sedans, while the sloping roofline aimed for a more dynamic aesthetic. The 3.0 V6 CDTi model, with its potent diesel engine, catered to drivers seeking strong performance and reasonable fuel economy for long-distance travel. The Vectra C, in general, represented Vauxhall’s attempt to elevate its position in the competitive European D-segment (mid-size car category).
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Vectra C CC 3.0 V6 CDTi is its 2958 cc (180.51 cu. in.) V6 diesel engine, designated the Z30DT. This engine produces 184 horsepower (Hp) at 4000 rpm and a substantial 400 Newton-meters (295.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1900 and 2700 rpm. The engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to maximize power and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain configuration allows for a respectable 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) time, although official figures vary. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 224 km/h (139.19 mph). The engine’s design prioritizes torque delivery, making it well-suited for effortless cruising and overtaking. Fuel economy is rated at 7.7 liters per 100 kilometers (30.5 US mpg) combined, with 10.8 l/100km (21.8 US mpg) in urban settings and 5.6 l/100km (42 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. CO2 emissions are rated at 208 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Vectra C CC is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. It seats five passengers and provides a generous 500 liters (17.66 cu. ft.) of trunk space, expandable to 1360 liters (48.03 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4611 mm (181.54 in.) in length, 1798 mm (70.79 in.) in width, and 1460 mm (57.48 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2700 mm (106.3 in.). The drag coefficient of 0.28 contributes to improved aerodynamic efficiency.
Standard features for the 3.0 V6 CDTi model typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Higher trim levels offered features such as leather upholstery, alloy wheels, and a more advanced infotainment system. Safety features, crucial for a vehicle of this era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front and side airbags. The independent suspension – McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear – aimed to provide a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to the front wheels, while solid discs are used at the rear.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra C CC |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 CDTi 24V ECOTEC (184 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 208 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 224 km/h (139.19 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1900-2700 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z30DT |
| Engine displacement | 2958 cm3 (180.51 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1315 kg (2899.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (maximum) | 1360 l (48.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4611 mm (181.54 in.) |
| Width | 1798 mm (70.79 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2036 mm (80.16 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
