Vauxhall Movano (99-03) - Review

Vauxhall burst back on to the 3.5-tonne van sector in 1998 with the Movano, after an absence in this market of some years. The Movano was a re-badged Renault Master and shared both its platform and engines – and it is none the worse for that, as the Renault boasted a fine set of diesel powerplants. However, engines were still old-fashioned diesels at 1.9-litres and 2.5-litres. It wasn’t until 2001 that more efficient and refined common rail powerplants first appeared and were offered at 1.9-litres, 2.2-litres and 2.5-litres, featuring more power, smoother running and better fuel economy. Gross vehicle weights range from 2.8 tonnes to 3.5 tonnes, which means that at the bottom end there is some cross-over with the stylish Vauxhall Vivaro, which also appeared in 2001, offering a far superior driving experience.

Creature comforts didn’t exactly feature highly as standard fittings on early models but these were on a par with other vans of the age. There were plenty of goodies on offer– air conditioning, metallic paint etc, but they were all paid-for options and most buyers of new vehicles didn’t bother. On the plus side, the Movano has a superb driver’s seat that is firm and supportive on long journeys.

After 2001, the Movano improved greatly with the introduction of common rail technology. The 1.9-litre unit offered 82bhp and 147lb-ft of torque, the 2.2-litre had 90bhp and 191lb-ft of torque and the 2.2-litre offered 115bhp and 213lb-ft of torque. These figures look relatively puny nowadays with vans offering anything up to 180bhp, but for everyday purposes, the Movano proves a willing drive. Despite its size, the Movano is a nimble and able performer on the roads and features crisp cornering and nicely-weighted power steering. As with most vans, the Movano is at its best with a half-load of cargo aboard, which takes the skittishness out of the ride. On the minus side, the gearchange had not yet migrated to the dash and was not the best in class by any means.