The third generation of the Vauxhall Vectra was built on the GM Epsilon platform and it was unveiled at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show.
In 2005 it went through an ample mid-life cycle refresh.

The 2005 Vauxhall Vectra was based on the GM Epsilon platform and it was available in three body shapes: three-box sedan, two and a half hatchback and station-wagon. The facelift was unveiled at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show and it stayed almost three years on the market, until August 2008 when it was replaced by the Insignia.

The design of the facelifted version for the Vectra C featured redesigned headlights, bumpers and taillights. The grille was taller and featured a wide V-shaped lower side for the chromed rim.

Inside, the instrument cluster was redesigned. The top section of the cockpit and the door trims were redesigned by leather-like grain. The multicontour front seats offered better support. For the infotainment unit, the Vectra C offered a Bluetooth connection with steering-wheel mounted buttons.

For the engine compartment, Vauxhall changed the engine supplier and took the 1.9-liter direct injection diesel engines from Fiat. A 3.0-liter Isuzu diesel engine was installed under the hood. For the gasoline versions, the Vectra was available with five choices that offered between 100 and 230 hp. The independent suspension on all corners was enhanced with adaptive dampers that could have been stiffened via a button on the dashboard.