VAUXHALL has just released the first photographs of the Signum, which will reach showrooms next summer.

With a unique, stretched body design, a highly flexible rear-seat arrangement, top-rate equipment package and pioneering technologies, Signum breaks through conventional segment barriers.

The proportions are also unusual: although the overall length of 185.4in/4636mm is only 1.6in/40mm more than the Vectra saloon, the 113.2in/2830mm wheelbase is a full 5.2in/130mm longer. The rear overhang is correspondingly short and the height only slightly greater.

A major highlight is its innovative seating system which, because of the long wheelbase, provides the rear-seat space and comfort of a large luxury car. The three-seat rear can be turned into two individual seats, which can slide back by up to 130mm giving lots of legroom.

Among the many innovations premiered in Signum, are three new ECOTEC engines: Vauxhall’s first petrol direct injection engine - 2.2 litre and 155PS; a new 175PS 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and a 3.0-litre 177PS V6 common-rail diesel.