 | Vauxhall Combo Van |
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A MORE SATISFYING COMBO
BY ANDY ENRIGHT
When it comes to selecting a light van, Vauxhall's Combo would figure on many operators' shortlists. Attractive upfront pricing and reliable mechanicals based on the Corsa car Range make it a trusty little workhorse. Just as the Corsa Range has evolved, the Combo Range has subsequently followed suit. Vauxhall have listened to owner's comments and made the van better than ever.
The Combo incorporates all the versatility of its rivals, but with excellent cargo space, payload capacity, comfort and safety. Whereas its predecessor had a fair amount of space in the back, the latest Combo is both taller and longer, giving it far greater everyday utility. At 4323mm, the Combo has been stretched to the tune of 93mm, the wheelbase being increased by a massive 236mm, exacerbating the growth yet further.
A 1200mm maximum load height combined with a 1780mm load platform height and 1380mm width means that the Combo can easily take Europallets in the back and is amongst the largest in its class. The cab and the cargo area are now smoothly integrated into one aerodynamic shape, the higher windscreen giving an airier feel to the cabin. You will not be disappointed with the additional equipment the Combo has to offer. All models have power steering, a cabin pollen filter and air-recirculation system, four-speed heater fan with side-window demisters, illuminated load area and electric headlamp levelling. Safety is well provided for as all Combos come with twin airbags, seat belt pre tensioners and load limiters, Plus a pedal release system. Active head restraints and anti lock brakes can be specified at extra cost. A wide Range of accessories, such as florists' and dry cleaners' packs and bicycle carriers, are also available. A wide Range of entertainment options and even a radio/navigation system or a hands free GSM phone can be specified.
Two modern common rail diesel engines are available. The 1.3 CDTI powerplant generates 70bhp, whilst the 1.7 CDTI musters 100bhp. Both engines will return an average fuel consumption figure of around 50mpg and are excellent if you're planning on approaching the Combo's 810kg payload limit with any regularity. Likewise you'll opt for the diesel versions if you want to take advantage of the Combo's 1200kg braked trailer towing capability. The 90bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine available is usefully quick too. All four-cylinder, four-valve engines boast high economic efficiency and low fuel consumption. Especially economical is the Combo 1.3 CDTi which will deliver ten per cent better fuel economy than its non-common rail diesel predecessor.
The 1.3 CDTi turbo diesel with variable multiple direct injection is the entry-level diesel engine for the Combo. It is extremely compact -- in fact it is the world's smallest production common-rail unit. Maximum torque of 170 Nm also makes the 1.3 CDTi-powered models fun to drive. The premium Combo powerhouse is the 1.7 CDTi common-rail turbo diesel. With the same displacement, this engine produces a third more power than the previous 1.7 DTI unit, with considerably higher torque of 240 Nm, while fuel consumption remains equally low. The 1.7 CDTi is especially suitable for customers who place high value on dynamic driving performance. Rear disc brakes with 15 inch wheels and tyres will be standard on all 1.7 CDTi variants and also on the 1.3 CDTi high payload (2000) variants.
The 1.4 ECOTEC engine with TWINPORT technology also delivers economic efficiency. Thanks to variable intake control as well as high exhaust gas recirculation rates, the intelligent fuel-saving TWINPORT technology substantially reduces fuel consumption, and 90bhp with a maximum torque of 125 Nm promises lively driving. The rear-loading bay can be accessed via a pair of wide opening optional sliding doors or through the rear doors that now feature strengthened stays to hold them in position. Should you fold the Combo's front passenger seat down you'll end up with a maximum load length of 2700mm.
The latest Combo interior features more innovation in the form of a new generation of infotainment systems. These systems were introduced in the new Astra and set the benchmark with their functionality and intuitive operating concept. In essence, the interior comfort and sheer driveability means Combo thinks it is a car! The delightful thing about the Combo is that so many of the good ideas from the Corsa have filtered down to it. The days when vans were about as well specified as an isolation cell at Devil's Island are long gone. With more owner operators than ever before, a van not only has to do the job, but has to make the driving environment a decent one.
So it is that the Combo is actually very good fun to drive. There's little of the usual unloaded van bounce that afflicts many rivals, the rear suspension taking care of changes in load admirably. Whilst none of the engines could be described as balls of fire, they get the job done well and with impressive economy. In fact there are times when it's easy to forget you're driving a van at all, such is the degree of refinement Vauxhall have built into the Combo.
The Combo makes a great deal of sense for the business looking to move gear cheaply, quickly and efficiently. A 3.2 cubic metre load capacity and rugged mechanicals make it a small van with a big appetite for hard work. A winning combo? You be the judge of that...
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