Set to premiere at the CV Show in Birmingham this month, PHPI gets the scoop on the latest update to the Vivaro family from Vauxhall.
Now available to order and arriving in Vauxhall showrooms in the summer, the third generation Vivaro medium van is based on an updated platform and available in two lengths (4.95m and 5.30m). Body styles include panel van, crew cab for up to six occupants and a platform chassis.
With a maximum cargo capacity of 6.6m3, the new Vivaro has a payload of up to 1,400kg, 200kg more than its predecessor. The same applies to towing weights: the maximum trailer load is 2,500kg, 500kg more than the outgoing model.
Objects up to 4.02m long can be stowed securely in the 5.30m version thanks to Flex Cargo, an optional load-through flap under the front passenger seat. Adding to its office on wheels credentials, the FlexCargo also allows the back of the middle seat to fold down to become a table for documents, a notebook or a tablet.
Automatic side sliding doors are also available. A foot movement towards the sensors on the vehicle is all that is needed to open the door – ideal for tradespeople when carrying tools and equipment back to the van.
Stability and safety on a variety of slippery surfaces – mud, sand or snow – is provided by the advanced IntelliGrip traction control system (optional), including the work-site set-up comprising higher ground clearance and underbody protection.
Driver assistance
Inside, Vauxhall says that its driver assistance systems and connectivity are on par with most passenger cars. Comfort levels are improved with a multitude of seating adjustments, including lumbar support.
The Vivaro is available with a Head Up Display so that drivers can see all important information and keep their eyes on the road. The additional front-camera and radar-based systems include:
*Lane Keep Assist
*Traffic Sign Recognition
*Drowsiness Alert, which advises and warns the driver by monitoring behaviour
*Adaptive Cruise Control, which adjusts the speed according to that of the preceding vehicle, without actively braking
*Forward Collision Alert, which gives a two-level warning of a potential front impact
*Automatic Emergency Braking
The Vivaro features ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear aprons. They warn the driver of obstacles when parking and monitor the side blind spot.
The Multimedia and Multimedia Navi infotainment systems come with a seven-inch touchscreen. Both feature phone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multimedia Navi additionally features European navigation with 3D view. Thanks to Vauxhall Connect, the system includes Live Navigation real-time traffic information, direct connection with roadside assistance and emergency call.
“As a British brand since 1903, we’re delighted to reveal the all-new Luton-built Vivaro,” said Derek Wilson, Vauxhall’s LCV Director. “Practical, comfortable, economical and packed with the latest driver assistance and connectivity technology, the all-new new Vivaro is the vehicle that sits at the heart of our commercial vehicle range.”
Going electric
With the new Vivaro, Vauxhall continues to implement its PACE! strategic plan by investing in growing market segments. With this in mind, the company will offer a purely electric version in 2020, another milestone on the journey to electrifying the brand.
