Vauxhall Motors, the British GM subsidiary that shared most of its models with Opel, did not use the "Vectra" model name until the introduction of the second generation into the United Kingdom in October 1995 to replace the Cavalier. However, left hand drive Opel Vectras were produced at Vauxhall's Luton plant for export to other European countries.

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The 1989 Vectra came in Base, LS, GL, GLS, CD, and GT models, its sister model was the third-generation Cavalier. Engines ranged initially from a 75 PS (55 kW) 1.4 L to a 130 PS (96 kW) 2.0 L Family II. The top-of-the-line Vectra 2000 16V arrived in September 1989. Its sixteen valve version of the 2.0 L engine produces 150 PS (110 kW) and was only available with the sedan bodywork, with available four wheel drive.

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The sixteen valve engine also appeared in GT (GSI in some markets) models after the facelift, now mainly as a hatchback. Two four-wheel drive versions were added to the lineup in January 1989, and in September 1992, the car received a limited edition turbocharged version, with 204 PS (150 kW). In 1994, the European Turbo 4x4 version of the Vectra was used in Formula One as its Safety Car.

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Most notably, it was deployed at the San Marino Grand Prix.