Following the 2005 Detroit Auto Show, with its proliferation of off-roaders for the road, Vauxhall chairman Kevin Wale said he would like to see a sport utility vehicle in the company's fleet to complete its model offering.

"It's a gap we have in both the Vauxhall and Saab line-ups and we are looking to do something about that," he said. "I would certainly like one Vauxhall SUV if not two. There are plans to introduce one such vehicle late next year."

SUVs aside, Wales said he is happy with the rest of the range, which he believes is one of the best Vauxhall has had for many years.

"We have some great products now and I suppose the only disappointment is Vectra, but the segment has been in decline generally and everyone is suffering.

"Vehicles in the segment below have become bigger and better while those above have become cheaper."

Last year Vauxhall sold 370,000 vehicles in the UK taking 12.6 percent share of the market "and gaining and half a percent over Ford," added Wale.

"I think the market will remain about the same this year, I don't expect any big movements in interest rates, the UK economy is well managed, there is consumer confidence and as far as vehicles are concerned there is plenty of choice and prices are good."

As Vauxhall chief, Wale also has the other General Motors brands Saab and Chevrolet reporting to him. The major issue this year is getting recognition for the Chevy brand.

The Korean-built vehicles were formerly sold under the GM Daewoo brand but are now being badged globally as Chevrolet.

Wale said:" There is a perception of big, thirsty American cars associated with the Chevy name in the UK, and while that is a perception we have to change at least it is a name that is known and one that has cache.

"The great thing is that with Vauxhall, Saab and Chevrolet the GM brands have product offerings in all the important price ranges."

Interchange - 26 Jan 2005