VAN TEST DRIVE
Vauxhall Combi 1.3CDTi
If a minivan is what you want then maybe the Vauxhall Combi has what you’re after.
The Vauxhall Combi has a no frills but is a clean design and the LCV does what is says on the tin.
Hop in and you’ll find that there's plenty of space in the comfortable cab. While, the driver's seat is set at a sensible height for delivery drivers. The steering is light as it is over assisted but this is useful when in tight urban spaces.
We at IMN noticed a lack of storage space up-front. You’ll struggle to store a two-litre bottle of lemonade or a flask as the door pockets and glove box are small in size.
You have a payload of 785kg, which meant our van was capable of towing a braked trailer grossing 1,000kg.
Downside’s to the Combi is the lack of a full-height bulkhead and a full lining for the load area. This is really pertinent when at speed, as wind noise and road roar is more noticeable because of the lack of a bulkhead.
Once on the road you’ll find that the Combi has 70bhp – plenty for nipping around the urban jungle. Lift the bonnet and you’ll find a 1,248cc Ecotec-4 four-cylinder 16-valve double overhead cam engine generating 125 lb/ft of torque. This is mated to an Easytronic gearbox. The ‘box is an optional extra on the Combi range – but it’ll will make the urban driving experience more pleasurable.
What that I hear you ask?
It’s a five-speed manual gearbox with a fully auto mode. In manual you simply push the lever forward or back to shift gear up or down. The facia display shows you what gear you’re in – 1-5 N for Neutral or A for Auto. Switch to fully automatic mode and it has many of the features of a regular automatic including a kick-down function.
Our Combi 1.3CDTi cried out for more power when on the outer urban commute and there was intermittent rattle from either the back doors or the bulkhead as the van was empty — we couldn't figure out which and it proved to be rather annoying.
Stick to the urban jungle and you’ll have a happy partnership with the Combi 1.3CDTi – venture to the outer urban and you’ll want a more power.
At a glance:
| Name: | Vauxhall Combi 1.3CDTi |
| Price: | £9,723 |
| Engine/power: | 1.3CDTi/70bhp |
| Payload: | 785kg |
Simon McBride