The Vivaro is a line of mid-size vans manufactured by Opel, a subsidiary of General Motors. Launched in 1996 as a joint venture with Renault, it has undergone multiple generations and redesigns since its inception.
Design and History
Initially introduced as vivaro-casino.ca the Opel Sintra, this van was based on the same platform as the A-class Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Peugeot Expert vans. After a brief production run in Spain, General Motors decided to discontinue the nameplate. However, Renault, who had acquired a 51% stake in Opel at the time, opted to retain its market share by adapting their own Trafic platform for European markets.
In 2001, Opel re-released the Vivaro, renaming it after their new partnership with Fiat and PSA (Peugeot-Citroën). The resulting third generation was engineered together by these manufacturers under a collaborative program. Subsequent models have largely followed this approach of transatlantic partnerships to leverage shared resources.
Mechanical Specifications
Vivaro vans come equipped with two basic drivetrain options:
- Diesel variants : Typically paired with the Peugeot’s HDi (or PSA) or GM’s Euro-5 compliant engines. They typically range from 89bhp in entry-level trims to up to 130 hp high-performance options.
- Petrol units : Usually powered by either Fiat Multijet engines for more compact dimensions, featuring an output of around 120 horsepower or slightly higher with turbocharging.
The mid-size class is optimized for both cargo capacity (3m x 1.7m load bay) and passenger transport potential. Its gross weight can be anywhere from approximately one-ton for short-wheelbase models up to about three-quarters ton in fully laden cases for longer variants of this car-based MPV or panel van.
Trim Levels
Over the years, Opel has introduced several trim levels across multiple generations of Vivaro:
- Excellence : The top-tier model featuring luxurious interior finishes such as leather and various gadgets like navigation systems.
- Expression : The entry-level version with more basic amenities including cloth upholstery instead of the premium leather found in its upper counterpart counterparts; although most will come equipped with higher-spec features depending upon trim options chosen by buyers during purchasing process before receiving final sale price quote back from authorized dealer network participating outlets across regions worldwide.
Variations and Models
Throughout production, several specialty models emerged to cater specific customer segments:
- Platform Shared Architecture : Vivaro also uses an A class derived body in combination with same underfloor panel sections found on sister vehicle Trafic for added convenience.
- Utility versions: Available options range between full-sized load carrying capacity at base cost to more expensive multi-purpose derivatives including passenger & crew bus designs allowing people transport without reducing freight capabilities severely enough.
Dimensions
Comparatively, when measured against other vans of similar size (mid-size category), the Vivaro stands out for its unique blend of length and wheelbase offering versatility not easily replicated elsewhere within this particular market segment – all while also boasting considerable ground clearance despite compact footprint size compared to competitors.
Performance Capabilities
Given diverse engine configurations offered through different variants, individual driving experiences can vary greatly depending on model chosen as follows:
- Acceleration: Depending upon transmission choices paired with specific drivetrain type used – either manual or semi-automatic.
- Fuel Economy : A wide range of estimates exist but typically anywhere between 45-55mpg (combined) for urban cycles.
Safety Features
Throughout its development process, engineers aimed at achieving improved structural integrity while focusing heavily upon incorporating safety features:
- Dual airbags : Standard across all models since their introduction in various stages during ongoing lifecycle updates up until current production standards maintained consistent throughout series revisions without exception.
- Electronic stability control (ESC) : Included since late second generation release date for maximum passenger protection when cornering, braking and other driving maneuvers undertaken at higher speeds which increased the vehicle’s accident prevention potential further.
Interior Comfort
For those who prioritize interior living space comfort while still benefiting from efficiency inherent within design:
- A variety of configuration options have been introduced allowing buyers greater freedom in choosing arrangements that suit personal needs best.
The Vivaro has consistently demonstrated a balance between practicality and passenger comfort across its lifespan, making it suitable for both work-related applications as well as family outings or vacations where cargo capacity requires efficient packaging without sacrificing interior space.
Key Features Summary
Over the years, there have been notable updates including:
- Improved engines with enhanced performance
- Enhanced safety features to protect occupants in potential accidents.
- Greater versatility through various configuration options.
Overall analysis shows that while improvements continue being made regularly; overall product offering does cater towards middle ground within segment making it appealing option worth considering before finalizing decision on other comparable products available currently in market today.
