White Van Man Reviews: Vauxhall Vivaro Ecoflex
FOR most blokes, there’s only really about four or five different colours – that is until the missus drags you along to shop for paint. It’s a bit of an eye-opener. Apparently there’s even about 20 different types of white (and you thought ‘oatmeal’ was something you had for breakfast).
Of course, different colours can mean different things to different folks. In the UK, green is all about being kind to the environment, which often means working out what type of rubbish to put in what colour of bin. For Americans, green is all about cash. The green of the dollar is the favourite colour for many of our Transatlantic cousins.
But whatever type of ‘green’ you’re after, Vauxhall’s latest incarnation of their popular Vivaro is sure to put a smile on your face.
Vauxhall have been making great efforts recently to improve the environmental reputation of their commercial vehicles and the Vivaro has been rolled out in two Ecoflex versions of their 2.0litre CDTi models – the 90hp and 115hp, which both have a CO2 output of 186g/km.
A cleaner van isn’t just friendlier to the environment, it’ll also save you when it comes to road tax and it also goes down well with insurers, something you’ll see when you compare van insurance quotes.
The one big change from previous models and other Vauxhall vans is the speed limiter. It won’t let you accelerate beyond 62mph, no matter how much you push the pedal to the metal.
It’s a great fuel-saving device and won’t really impinge on your day-to-day use of the van.
The Vivaro also features electrically-operated windows, wing mirrors and door locking.
This latest edition of the Vivaro has had a few tweaks along the way since it was first manufactured in 2001. Vauxhall start production in 2013 on the new Vivaro, but the addition of an Ecoflex version gives the model a new dimension.
Great for Van Fleets
With many firms seeking to cut costs and look after the environment at the same time, the Vivaro Ecoflex is sure to have great appeal. As a fleet vehicle, its low running costs are a big plus. It’ll also save you on van insurance and you’re in the right place if you’re looking great deals on fleet van cover.
Despite the low emissions and the speed limiter, Vauxhall haven’t compromised on the payload which is still a generous 1240kg.
The 115hp model is a smooth drive through the city streets or out on the open road, with a six-speed manual gearbox guiding it along. It has decent handling with steady steering, pretty much what you would expect.
The speed limiter doesn’t overly impact on the power of the Vivaro Ecoflex, however if you are looking to tear up the fast lane of the motorway or speed past longer vehicles, you may find it a bit of struggle.
Outwardly, it’s easy enough on the eye, without standing out too much and although the Vivaro’s external design was somewhat innovative when it first appeared over 10 years ago, it has blended into the norm over the years.
The cabin is a bit understated, but it is comfortable and airy and there’s lots of places to store your stuff. There’s an easily accessible cup holder for that morning brew and space for a big water bottle to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day – two litres a day ought to do the trick.
If you and your crew are a little bit on the more robust side, the double-front passenger seat might require a shape intake of breath before venturing in.
Getting the tunes going should be easy, though, with steering wheel mounted controls for the radio and CD player. The steering wheel itself is also adjustable, as is the driver’s seat, making sure you can get as comfy as possible, especially on a long journey.
The Vivaro Ecoflex is a welcome addition to this popular line and with the money you’re saving, your mates are sure to be green with envy.
Keep even more dosh in your wallet by getting some cracking quotes on van insurance online today. You can also call our UK-based team and save even more.