Review: Vauxhall Combo (2012 – 2018)

The Vauxhall Combo may look familiar because it's actually a rebadged version of the Fiat Doblo Cargo with a slightly redesigned front end. That's good news as the Doblo is a capable and good quality van with proven mechanicals.

It uses the same engines as the Doblo with a 1.3 CDTi and a 1.6 CDTi, each with 90PS, as well as a 1.6 CDTi variant with 105PS and a powerful 2.0 CDTi engine providing 135PS. They all get a standard five-speed gearbox while the 1.6 CDTi is also available with Vauxhall’s ’Tecshift’ automated five-speed manual transmission

Standard equipment has been much improved over the outgoing model with a raft of equipment including remote central door locking with deadlocks, full-steel bulkhead, trip computer, electric power steering, driver’s airbag, ABS with EBD, CD stereo and a 12 volt power outlet in the dashboard.

The new new Combo introduces a Sportive trim level for the first time. These models combine added driver comfort with a sporty style and additional features including air conditioning, metallic paint, body-colour bumpers and door mirrors, a nearside sliding door, driver's seat with height adjustment, armrest and lumbar support and full wheel covers.