EXECUTIVES might be top earners, but that does not mean they have money to burn, argues Vauxhall.

Consequently, the car manufacturer has launched a new Signum saloon with £5,000 of extras such as satellite navigation and alloy wheels as standard fittings, but generally found as optional extras on manufacturers' price lists.

Vauxhall's Signum Exclusiv is a stylish model offering the sort of standard features which would make any driver drool, including 18-inch alloy wheels and colour satellite navigation and yet prices start at just £17,995 - that is £650 less than the present entry-level Signum.

Vauxhall has not scrimped in other areas either.

In addition to the six airbags, innovative FlexSpace seating, cruise control and air-con that is standard equipment on all Signums, the Exclusiv also features front fog lights, silver roof rails and unique interior trim.

If that is not enough, then there are still a few items on the Exclusiv's options list.

Upgrading to super-stylish 19-inch alloys costs £200, for example.

Company car drivers will find that it is not just the Exclusiv's low list price which will make the tax man sulk.

Engine options include the new 1.9-litre CDTi common rail turbo diesel engines that comply with EuroIV emission laws, so avoiding the three percent Benefit-in-Kind tax penalty.

This, combined with the engine's efficiency, means the Signum driver can save £747 a year compared to some competitors while returning up to 56.5mpg.

The range includes 1.8-litre 16v for £17,995, 2.2-litre 16v Direct £18,595, 2.2-litre 16v Direct Auto £19,895, 1.9-litre CDTi (120PS)£19,995, 1.9-litre CDTi (150PS)£20,495, 1.9-litre CDTi (150PS) Auto £21,795.

Finally, the sat-nav system features technology that automatically receives traffic reports and will reroute to avoid hold-ups, and the Exclusiv's standard sports suspension promises an exciting ride and drive experience.

Updated: 10:35 Friday, October 29, 2004