All-new Combo introduced by Vauxhall

Vauxhall has launched its all-new Combo and it’s a very different proposition to its predecessor, introduced back in 2001. Based on Fiat’s latest generation Doblò Cargo, there’s a choice of two wheelbases, two roof heights and two gross vehicle weights; 2.0 and 2.3 tonne. Basic prices (excl VAT) start at £13,855 and all Combos come with daytime running lights as standard.

Access to the cargo area is good, thanks to a low 545mm loading height and a 1,231mm-wide aperture exposed by the asymmetrical rear doors once they are opened fully to 180°. A top-hinged tailgate is optional. Short-wheelbase L1 models provide a load length of 1,820mm, rising to 2,170mm on the long-wheelbase L2. A standard Europallet can be accommodated between the wheel boxes thanks to a usable width of 1,230mm and there’s a rear roof flap available on standard roof L1 models to cope with over-length items.

Load volumes are 3.2m³, 4.0m³ and 4.2m³ for the L1, L1 high roof and L2 respectively, while gross payloads go from 750kg up to a maximum of 1,000kg.

Four diesel engines are on offer. There’s a 90hp 1.3-litre, 90hp or 105hp 1.6-litre and a range-topping 135hp 2.0-litre. The lower powered 1.6-litre option comes in conjunction with the automated manual, clutchless Tecshift transmission. The remainder, bar the 1.3CTDi, come with a six-speed manual ’box; it gets a five-speeder. Stop/Start is available across the range and there are also low-carbon ecoFlex models in the line-up. Service intervals are set at 21,000 miles.

The new Combo’s cab is very car-like in feel and appearance and more than enough storage space, including a substantial lockable glovebox, is provided to keep the occupants neat and tidy. Standard specification is high, even on the Base models. They come with a reach- and rake-adjustable steering column, electric windows, remote central locking, driver’s airbag, full steel bulkhead and ABS. ESP is on the options list which is a shame. We thought Vauxhall might have gone the whole hog.

The alternative trim level is Sportive — a first for Combo — and this brings with it air conditioning, metallic paint, body-colour bumpers and door mirrors, nearside sliding door, driver seat with height adjustment, armrest and lumbar support and full wheel covers which give the appearance of alloys, but without the inherent damage potential.

Depending on model, additional goodies off the options list include height-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support and an armrest, upgraded infotainment and sat nav systems, aux-in and USD sockets, Bluetooth connectivity and a tailored PVC load floor cover

Vauxhall’s 220 light commercial vehicle dealers have been waiting with anticipation for the new, expanded Combo range and they will not be disappointed.