Road Tests:
The Renault-Vauxhall-Nissan front-wheel drive van was updated for Euro-4. Although the changes were restricted just to engines, a slight exterior restyle and the addition of Brake Assist as standard, this van range remains one of our favourites. The engines received a power boost across the line-up, with Maximum power now a healthy 144hp from the 2.5-litre turbo-diesel motor.
The exterior revamp amounted to little more than a revision of the grille and light cluster while Brake Assist, for the uninitiated, ensures maximum brake force is applied in an emergency. The option list was also give a respray with selective door locking, allowing seperate opening of the load and passenger doors, now on the list, as is ESP anti-roll technology.
From behind the wheel you'll be hard pressed to spot the Euro-4 variant from the 'old' one, which is no bad thing. On road behaviour remains impeccable and the steering set-up is still excellent, retaining this product's position at the head of the field in this sector.
Pros:- On-road behaviour top of the class
- Build quality further improved
| Cons:- Room for improvement on in-cab storage
- Gearshift would benefit from tightening
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Vehicle Specifications
| Engine Options: | 2.0-lit 89hp/240Nm, 114hp/290Nm; 2.5-lit 144hp/310Nm |
| Transmission: | FWD, 6-spd man |
| Year Introduced: | 2001 |