Vauxhall is a famous British manufacturer made good. Founded in 1907 but under the auspicates of General Motors since 1925, the company's products have proven consistently popular with UK motorists for as long as most people can remember. The modern cars are sold as Opels in Europe but the Brits still have a soft sport for a Vauxhall and as long as they do, the Luton-based company will have a future here.

Classic Vauxhall efforts of the past include the Viva, versions of which were sold between 1963 and 1979, and the larger Victor which had a dynasty spanning 1957 to 1972. The Astra debuted as far back as 1979 and the Cavalier name lasted from 1976 to 1994. This is a mark that likes to stick with a successful model designation. More recently, Vauxhall enthusiasts may remember the VX220 lightweight sports car that was based on a Lotus Elise and the Monaro, a Vauxhall-badged version of an Antipodean muscle car.

The core of the current Vauxhall line up is comprised of the Corsa and the Astra with the Zafira MPV also a strong seller. The Vectra is another stalwart Vauxhall brand but it has been affected by the general drop off in demand for medium range family cars and its Insignia replacement may struggle to match its sales levels. Other notable vehicles include the Meriva MPV and the Antara 4x4.

Vauxhall also runs the VXR performance brand and VXR versions of most models in the range are available. The VXR formula boils down to big engines, big wheels, sports seats, sports suspension and plenty of attitude.