Opel introduced the hatchback version for the Vectra’s second generation in 1996 and facelifted it in 1999 when it added minor changes to the bodywork.
The Vectra nameplate was used in all the markets and all body shapes. It was available as a sedan, hatchback (liftback), and a station-wagon. Opel built the Vectra for all the markets, but it felt like home only on the European and British roads, where its agile chassis and fuel-efficient small-displacement engines fitted better than on long journeys at highway speeds.

The 1999 Vectra received a new bumper design and a chromed rim around the grille. It wasn’t very clear if GM liked, or didn’t, the bio-design trend, but it didn’t want to ditch it completely. A particular shape was for the door-mirrors connected to the bodywork via an aerodynamic pillar that followed the hood’s V-shaped line. Up to the B-pillar, it was the same vehicle as to the non-facelifted version. In the back, there was a new set of taillights.

Inside, the low-mounted bucket-seats at the front provided the impression of a sporty family sedan. The concept worked well for the front passengers but left little legroom for the rear ones. GM installed the same dashboard with curved lines, with a fluid line for the instrument cluster.

Opel offered the 1999 Vectra with a choice of six gasoline and three turbodiesel engines. The carmaker paired all of them to a five-speed manual gearbox. For selected versions, the Vectra was available with a four-speed automatic.