ITS fine combination of low-emission ecoFLEX engine, the highest payload in its class and the fact that the Combo is a great drive sees this Vauxhall commercial take over from the all-conquering Ford Transit Custom from last year as Best Small Trades Van.
So why does the Vauxhall come out on top?
Well it has to be its combination of low operating costs, the Combo’s tidy road manners and most important is that class-leading 1000kg payload.
Best Small Trades Van – The Contenders
- Volkswagen Caddy 2.0 TDI Highline C20 SWB BMT 102PS
- Vauxhall Combo 1.3 CDTi 2300 L1H1 95PS Start/Stop ecoFLEX Euro 6
Last year’s winner was the Ford Transit Custom 2.2 TDCi Trend
That last aspect was the clincher in this workhorse contest, for the Volkswagen Caddy had a smaller payload.
Styling-wise, the Combo looks modern and the interior is more car-like than you might expect.
Also welcome inside this Vauxhall van is a full-length metal bulkhead to keep the loadspace and cabin separate.
The seats are also comfortable and multi-adjustable.
The 95PS 2.2-litre 1.3 CDTi also boasts a 58.9 mpg combined fuel consumption figure with the EU6 emissions rating so essential for modern business operations.
Vauxhall Combo 1.3CDTi 2300L1H1 95ps Eu6 ecoFlex S/Stop
- Gross vehicle weight: 3,030kg
- Fuel economy (combined): 58.9mpg
- CO2 emissions: 126g/km
- Price (ex-VAT): £16,528
That makes it the perfect all-rounder for small trades.
What the judges thought:
“The Combo has that valued combination of size that matters, with low operating costs.
“Payload and operating costs push Vauxhall into first place, the Volkswagen was penalised for its smaller payload.”
- The Business Van of the Year Awards 2017 are supported by Vanarama.
Steve Bryant receives the Combo’s award from Jon Gilbert, left, of sponsor Vanarama and Paul Hollick of TMC, chairman of judges
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