What is it?
The Vauxhall Vivaro is a versatile medium-sized van that caters to a range of business and personal needs. Now in its third generation, the Vivaro has been part of the Vauxhall lineup since 2001. The latest iteration, introduced in 2019 and updated in 2024, benefits from Stellantis Group engineering. It is available in both traditional diesel and fully electric variants, appealing to those looking for efficiency or a greener option.
Design and Styling
The Vivaro’s 2024 facelift introduced Vauxhall’s modern “vizor” grille, aligning it with the brand’s passenger car lineup. The interior features a refreshed dashboard with a 10.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering Bluetooth, USB, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The digital instrument cluster, also 10.0 inches, provides clear and configurable information, including navigation and fuel economy stats. Practicality is enhanced with sturdy interior materials, designed to withstand the demands of commercial use.
Driving and Performance
The Vivaro is available with two diesel engine options: a 1.5-litre engine producing 118bhp and a 2.0-litre engine with 142bhp. Both come with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the larger engine also offers a six-speed automatic option. The diesel engines deliver refined performance, offering adequate power even with a full load, and the steering is light but responsive, making it easy to handle.
For those prioritizing zero emissions, the Vivaro Electric provides an alternative with a range of up to 205 miles on a single charge from its 75kWh battery. A smaller 50kWh battery option is also available, offering a range of 144 miles. The electric model supports fast charging, with the larger battery able to reach 80% charge in about 45 minutes. The electric drivetrain is smooth and quiet, ideal for urban deliveries and low-emission zones, though it may feel heavier on the road compared to diesel models.
Practicality
The Vivaro comes in two lengths but only one roof height. It features sliding doors on both sides, which enhance accessibility, particularly in tight spaces. The maximum payload capacity exceeds 1.4 tonnes for some diesel models, while the electric variant carries slightly less due to the added weight of the batteries. Load space is slightly smaller than some competitors, with the electric version offering up to 6.6 cubic meters of cargo capacity. While the driving position offers good visibility, the offset alignment of the pedals and steering wheel may be less comfortable for long journeys.
Verdict
The Vauxhall Vivaro stands out as a reliable and versatile van for a variety of uses. Buyers can choose between economical diesel engines or the Vivaro Electric for a greener option, with the latter being especially appealing for urban operations and businesses aiming to reduce emissions. Its payload capacity, updated technology, and user-friendly design make it a strong competitor in the medium van segment. However, the offset driving position and slightly smaller load volume might deter some.
Pricing starts at around £33,997 for diesel models, while the electric version starts at approximately £45,000, with higher-end models exceeding £50,000. For those needing a balance between practicality and modern tech, the Vivaro remains a solid choice.
