Vauxhall Vivaro Van & Double Cab Review

Vauxhall’s All-New Medium Van

Thinking of investing in the all-new Vauxhall Vivaro van? We provide an in-depth review, highlighting the important pros and cons to offer our verdict.

The Vauxhall Vivaro At A glance

The third-generation model, the all-new Vauxhall Vivaro is narrower, shorter and more streamlined than in years gone by, and is currently available in either a medium sized panel van, or a combi-van, depending on the specification. Better yet, with a choice of cab sizes at your disposal, as well as the Vivaro Electric, this all-new van really does offer something for everyone, (although, at times, this is to its own detriment). Available in three model variations, the Dynamic, Elite, Sportive, and the all- new, award-winning Vivaro Electric, a zero emission alternative to the current model, here, we provide an extensive review of the all-new Vauxhall Vivaro.

Engines and Spec

Available in two diesel engine types, alongside the all-new electric Vivaro-e, the Vauxhall Vivaro offers an array of power outputs depending on your unique requirements. With a 1.5-litre Turbo Diesel that comes in either 100PS or 200PS outputs, as well as a suped-up, 2.0-litre Turbo Diesel that comes in 120PS, 150PS or 180PS, the Vivaro’s engines are versatile, durable and entirely dependable.

Front wheel drive and featuring a 6-speed manual transmission, (with an option for an 8-speed automatic transmission with selected 120PS models and an auto box as standard for 180PS versions), the Vauxhall Vivaro is fitted with an alarm, parking sensors, air conditioning, alloy wheels and plenty of additional options such as cruise control, electric windows, a touchscreen monitor and adjustable driver’s seat available depending on the model type.

Interior

Featuring a low, car-like driving position, (although there’s plenty of room for seat and wheel adjustment), the Vauxhall Vivaro’s interior is relatively comfortable, quiet and trimmed in an easy-clean fabric. Offering a functional, if not entirely stylish dashboard, (not unlike the Citroen DIspatch or Peuguot Expert), composed from hard-wearing plastics and featuring a central touchscreen, the Vivaro offers plenty of under-floor and overhead storage, whilst the middle passenger seat can fold down to create a table.

Pros & Cons

Whilst there’s plenty to celebrate with regards to the all-new Vauxhall Vivaro, as with any commercial vehicle on the market, there are some noticeable drawbacks to consider, (which we’ll get to a little later).  Arguably though, this third-generation model is an impressive upgrade on its predecessor, offering an increased payload, (as much as 19%), greater towing capacity, (25%) and an outstanding fuel economy, (up a whopping 28%). Better yet, the new Vauxhall Vivaro has a significant reduction in Co2 levels, emitting 19% less harmful emissions than the earlier model. Below, we outline the positives of choosing the all-new Vauxhall Vivaro Van.

Pros

• Very High Payload Ratings
• Quiet, Durable Engine
• City-Friendly
• Outstanding Fuel Economy
• Excellent Value

However, much like it’s sister vans,  the Vauxhall Vivaro does present a handful of significant drawbacks, featuring a surprisingly cramped cab, and a highly unusual, and dare we say slightly offset driving position that sits you left of your centre line, with the pedals, unforgivably, sitting to the right. For a modern Vauxhall vehicle, this is a pretty major gaffe. Whilst load volume and towing capacity is up, for whatever reason, Vauxhall decided that this particular van should also only be available in a single roof height, which can prove particularly frustrating at times. Below, we outline some of the drawbacks of the all-new Vauxhall Vivaro Van

Cons

• Smallish Cabin
• Unusual Driving Position
• Safety Equipment Is Limited
• Single Roof Height
• Outdated Manual Gearbox

The Verdict

A medium sized van with a difference; the all-new Vauxhall Vivaro Van provides greater flexibility, practicality and intelligent design and safety features than ever before, proving to be an efficient, stylish and practical solution. Shorter and narrower than its predecessor, with less width between the wheel arches, the Vivaro is stylish and sleeker than before, yet still provides a larger load volume and payload capacity.

Looking for the all-new Vauxhall Vivaro Van? At Van Sales UK, all our vans are available for outright purchase as well as hire purchase, finance lease and contract hire. Our new Nissan’s come complete with a 5-year manufacturer warranty and manufacturer breakdown cover, including free mainland UK delivery. Get in touch with us today.