Update 23/02/2012: Scroll down to the bottom for a video review of the new Vauxhall Combo.

An all-new version of the popular Vauxhall Combo small van is due in 2012.

As we have come to expect from new models, the new Combo will be bigger than its predecessor and will boast a class-leading payload of up to 1,000kg.

The new Combo will be available in two wheelbases, two heights and two gross vehicle weights (2,000kg and 2,300kg).

It will also have a load volume of up to 4.2 cubic metres and a rear axle capacity of up to 1,450kg – the highest in its sector.

The Combo has always been popular with van rental fleets and Vauxhall has sold nearly 200,000 of the current model. The new model looks set to continue the trend and its increased range of size and engine options should broaden its appeal. For the first time, the Combo will be available in Vauxhall’s Sportive trim, which should help its popularity with self-employed drivers.

Vauxhall’s new Combo will be based on a vehicle platform jointly developed by Fiat and GM – the same platform used by the new Fiat Doblo. The new Combo will, I believe, be built in Turkey, unlike the Vivaro and Astravan models which are built at Vauxhall’s UK plants (Luton and Ellesmere Port, respectively).

Engines

Four engine options will be available on the new Combo, all diesel:

• 1.3CDTi (90PS)
• 1.6CDTi (90PS)
• 1.6CDTi (105PS)
• 2.0CDTi. (135PS)

The 1.6CDTi engine will be available with Vauxhall’s Tecshift Automated Manual Transmission and all non-Tecshift models will be available with Start/Stop functionality to improve fuel consumption and reduce emissions – very valuable for urban users.

Loadspace & Payload

The new Combo will be available in two lengths – 4.39m and 4.74m. This will provide load lengths of 1.82m and 2.17m respectively. There will also be two height options – 1.85m and 2.1m – both of which are considerably higher than the current model, if I’m not mistaken.

Loading height will be a modest 54.5cm, allowing for easy access and there will be a choice of 750kg and 1,000kg payload options.

Trim & Interior

The new Combo will also be more luxurious and generously specified than its predecessor. Storage pockets inside the cab have been improved and include a lockable glovebox compartment that’s big enough to hold a laptop. The Sportive will even include an overhead storage shelf – ideal for sunglasses and the like.

To help improve comfort for drivers of all shapes and sizes, the new Combo’s steering wheel is adjustable for rake and reach and standard equipment includes a full steel bulkhead, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution), a CD/radio and a 12-volt power outlet on the dashboard.

In Sportive trim, the Combo will include air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver’s seat with armrest and lumbar support, metallic paint and body-coloured bumpers and door mirrors. A nearside sliding door will also be standard – presumably implying that will be an option on other models.

A wide range of other options will be available, including cruise control, climate control and rear parking sensors. Three option packs will also be on offer:

• Load compartment pack includes overhead storage shelf in the cabin, PVC lining for the loading compartment floor, rear auxiliary power outlet and a removable courtesy light.
• Winter pack consists of headlamp wash, fog lights, external temperature sensor and electric adjustable door mirrors.
• Driver pack includes CD50 multimedia reader (Bluetooth/USB/MP3), steering column mounted audio controls and leather steering wheel and gear knob.

The new Combo is now available to order for delivery from February 2012. Prices start at £14,703.33+VAT on the road.

Video Review of the New Vauxhall Combo

Here’s a video review of the new Vauxhall Combo, courtesy of the good folks at VansA2Z: