ON taking the keys to our Vauxhall Signum, I felt I had been offered membership to a special club. It is not dissimilar to those individuals and celebrities who have been awarded honorary degrees without completing the three years of study.

I've been instantly promoted to the highest rank in the Vauxhall drivers' club, thanks to our long-term test car.

It might seem strange but I have noticed one or two jealous glances from other Vauxhall drivers. Stopped at traffic lights, I have seen Vectra drivers enviously glaring at the Signum, Corsa drivers have eyed up its dashing rear hatch and Astra drivers have craned their necks to get a better look.

I get the impression they would all gladly swap their Vauxhalls for mine. The Signum is also more than just an attractive rear end – there is substance to go with the elements of style.

The direct injection 2.2-litre engine has plenty of power, while the six-speed transmission is smooth.

Despite the shortcomings of its designed-for-four interior, the Signum also scored well for comfort.

However, its efforts to play the perfect companion were thwarted when it was snatched away after a few days.

The battery warning light had been on intermittently and, after being checked over by Sycamores Vauxhall in Stamford, it was decided that a new instrument panel was needed.

We are expecting the new part from Germany any day now, but it has been with the dealer for nearly two weeks.

As no courtesy car was offered when the Signum was checked in, it could mean a serious inconvenience for a company car driver who would have to resort to a short-term rental vehicle as a replacement and then arrange for the dealer to reimburse the cost.

Company car tax bill 2004/05 (40% tax-payer): £138 per month