For those wanting reliability and economy

The Vauxhall Vivaro Sportive 2900 1.6CDTi 125PS s/s E6 L2H1 Doublecab van has been named as Glass’s Used Van Hero for June.

Each month, Glass’s Commercial Vehicle editors hold a meeting to name the current Used Van Hero in the UK market – the model they believe offers versatility, economy and outstanding value for money.

Andy Picton, Chief Commercial Vehicle Editor: “Strong economical engines and two rows of seats, together with a good size payload area are attractive benefits”.

Andy added that, “Sportive models in colour fitted with plenty of extras are seen as good value for money compared to more expensive competitors”

WHY?

The Vivaro has always had a good following in the UK. Built in Luton, there are four economical 1.6CDTi turbo-diesel engines to choose from generating 95bhp, 115bhp, 125bhp or 145bhp. Two body lengths are also available with body choices of panel van, crewcab van, 9-seat minibus and a platform cab for aftermarket conversions. The cabin is comfortable and well laid out, with plenty of storage and adjustable driver’s seat. Standard security features include deadlocks and immobiliser. The Doublecab van opens the Vivaro to a new audience regularly used by the family or a crew of workers.

WHEN WAS IT ON SALE?

The forerunner to the Vivaro, the Vauxhall Arena launched in the UK in 1997. The second-generation X83 model launched in 2001 and was a joint venture with sister products the Renault Trafic and Nissan Primastar with crew vans launching in 2005. Various engine changes and minor facelifts took place until the replacement arrived in 2014. The current third generation X82 model added the Fiat Talento to the partnership and is still in production. Following the purchase of Vauxhall by PSA, the replacement for the current Vivaro will be via a PSA donor vehicle, the Citroen Dispatch.

WHAT’S GOOD?

Frugal diesel engines, good handling, a spacious load area coupled to a large dealer network have helped Vauxhall establish the Vivaro as a popular new and used van. The timing chain requires no servicing work, whilst service intervals are set at competitive two years or 25,000 miles, whichever is sooner. The Doublecab benefits from a glazed plastic bulkhead fitted with a hinged flap at the base to allow for extra-long lengths to be stored under the rear passenger seats.

WHAT’S BAD?

The current Vivaro is behind the competition concerning safety features. Whilst the van also misses the more powerful engines available from competitors in this sector and no automatic gearbox is available.

IDEAL BUY?

Vauxhall Vivaro Sportive 2900 1.6 CDTI 125ps s/s E6 L2H1 Doublecab van on a 17/17 plate with 47k on the clock.

Glass Retail £15,550 Trade £13,075