Published: Commercial Motor, 17 Jan 2002
Good Comboby: Kevin Swallow
In recent years the car-derived van has undergone a significant revamp across the industry in terms of looks. Vauxhall was among the first to embrace the high-cube concept and is the latest to produce a "big windscreen" van of the type favoured by Fiat, Peugeot, Citroen and Renault. The turbo-diesel Combo, like its rivals, is a sleek aerodynamic lightweight that offers the driver mor space and power. But does it still stand out from the crowd - or merely sit neatly in a row of CDV lookalikes?
Verdict
Nine years ago CM suggested that the then new-look Combo would make a splash, and based on this test it's hard to argue against things being any different with the new mdoel. It produced a good fuel figure and was able to maintain a decent average speed throughout the test route. The driver has plenty of space in the cab and more than enough power underfoot. The current available payload is average but then the Combo is designed as a high-cube delivery vehicle rather than an out-and-out load lugger.
If you get the optional navicagion system then CM reckons you'll probably recoup the money quite quickly with fuel savings and shorter working time for drivers. All CV markets are competitive and manufacturers are stepping up the quality of their products accordingly. All in all the new Combo, a true child of its time, is no different and is a perfect example of well-thought-out design and execution.
Vehicle Specifications
Vauxhall Combo 1.7 DTI
| Fuel Consumption: | 44.1mpg(6.4lit/100km) |
| Average speed: | 65.8km/h |
| Gross weight as tested: | 1,780kg |
| Net payload: | 595kg |
| Price as tested: | £12,190(ex-VAT) |
