Vauxhall Movano (10 on) - Review

Compared to the outgoing Movano, this version offers a far wider range of body variants - in fact it's one of the best on the market. The line-up includes panels vans available in four lengths and three roof heights, a doublecab option, platform, chassis and crew cabs as well as a combi variant. The biggest models offer up to 17 cubic metres of load space and a load length of almost 4.4 metres. The availability of rear-wheel drive models (available with single or twin-rear wheels) gives the Movano a GVW of up to 4.5 tonnes. These are also ideal for towing trailers and can pull up to 3.0 tonnes while the maximum gross train weight is now 7.5 tonnes. Front-wheel-drive models have low loading sill heights for easy access to the cargo area while the sliding side and twin rear doors have wide openings - in fact the standard side door is wide enough to allow a Euro pallet to be loaded sideways. The wheel arches have been made less intrusive too, while the straight body sides makes transporting larger and bulky objects easier.

All models come with ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution while ESP electronic stability control is standard on rear-wheel drive versions - it's an option on front-wheel-drive variants. Other safety features include a driver's airbag and three-point safety belts with a belt tensioner. Optional kit includes a passenger airbag, seat-integrated side airbags and headlamps with cornering lights.

Vauxhall's 2.3-litre CDTi common-rail engine in the Movano is available in a variety of power outputs, but all return good fuel economy with the 100bhp and 125bhp models able to average 35mpg (in the 3.5t L2H2 version). The standard fuel tank is 80 litres but there's an optional 105-litre tank available which gives a range of nearly 875 miles. All versions of the engine are Euro 4 emissions compliant but can be ordered with a diesel particulate filter to meet Euro 5 standards. Compared to the outgoing model, wear and tear costs are 24% lower. Standard equipment levels are good too and the entry level Expression model comes with electric windows and door mirrors plus a full bulkhead. Early models came with a 'launch pack' which added £1,400 of extra equipment including air conditioning, a multi-function trip computer, Bluetooth and an alarm, for free.

The CDTi engine is chain-driven to keep maintenance costs down while both the brakes and clutch have been engineered for long-term durability. An oil change isn't required before 25,000 miles while the coolant is good for 100,000 miles. The total service life of the Movano is an impressive 250,000 miles. The cabin is well built and will happily stand up to the usual abuse, however the rear door hinges don't seem particularly robust and when the doors are at their maximum opening, they seem to precariously stick out.