Nice New Vauxhalls

I, admittedly, am no expert on vans. The whole world of Light Commercial Vehicles has completely passed me by and I have felt no remorse or regret. With this in mind, maybe you can imagine my bored grimace when I was asked to test the New Vauxhall Vivaro.

“Vivaro?” I thought to myself, “That’s a rather exotic name for what is essentially a vehicle to lug tool boxes around.” But since when has a van been an exotic mode of transport? Traditionally, those amongst us who drive light commercial vehicles for a living are rarely interested in things that are exotic unless it’s served with a Naan bread and a pint of lager. So to my naive mind, sexing up a van is tantamount to launching a monkey into space; pretty much a pointless activity.

I, for one of the few times in my life, found myself in possession of the wrong opinion when it came to the Vauxhall Vivaro. When it pulled up outside my house I was gobsmacked with how different the Vivaro looked in comparison with its direct competition. The traditional boxiness of some vans is not evident in the Vivaro and has given this newcomer a significant opportunity of matching the evergreen Ford Transit, at least in terms of iconic aesthetics.

Performance-wise the Vivaro is as refreshing to drive as it is to look at and achieved everything I expected from it 2.0 Litre Diesel engine, which interestingly enough produced some highly impressive miles per gallon ratios (a handy decision factor for the cash-strapped tradesmen amongst us).

I’m not going to lie and say that the Vauxhall Vivaro is as pleasurable drive as an Audi Q7, but for a tradesman swinging around roundabouts and suburban street corners all day then it is a comfortable and easy drive with very spacious interiors. A worthy rival to the Transit…at last!

Pete Ridgard

The car market may be slow to get back on its feet, but the job market seems to be seeing ‘green shoots of recovery.’ This should mean that soon the car market should be thriving again and the man with a van will become a more common sight.

Regarding choosing the right van if you’re a decision-maker, here is a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best vehicle for your purposes.

What will you use it for?

- City driving
- Long haul (mostly motorways)
- Large loads
- Off-road
- Transporting colleagues

For each of these uses, you would require a different type of van depending on the nature of your business.

City Driving
The Corsavan is perfect for city driving. It’s as small as a normal corsa therefore easy to park in towns where space is somewhat limited. Interestingly enough, it is rather spacious inside so it will comfortably fit two fully grown men in the seats. Exceptionally taller drivers (6ft 4″ tall +) may disagree with this statement.

Fuel efficiency is often a problem for city vehicles as constant gear changes and stopping and starting is not great for fuel consumption. If this is an issue, it is helpful to know that car-derived vans such as the Corsavan are well suited to such driving. The clutch and gearbox are likely to wear quickly from lots of gear changes that is unfortunately necessary with city driving. It is advisable that drivers be alert to changes in these parts that may signal that they may soon require replacing. Corsavans are not suitable for delivering bulky or heavy items but they’re perfect for moving small loads or for tradesmen working on smaller jobs and typically attracts favourable reviews.

Alternatives include the Daihatsu Hijet or the Piaggo Porter although they are poor alternatives as they are more like small trucks rather than vehicles designed for running around town. Radio stations have chosen Corsavans for their out and about vehicles as they are small, nippy and surprisingly spacious. If you need more space, the Astravan is a larger alternative but not an equivalent due to the vehicle not being small enough to be described as a city car.

Long Haul
In fact, the Astravan is more suitable for long haul journeys than it is going around the city due to the length of the vehicle making it harder to park in crowded city centres but owners of these vans will happily admit that they would choose an Astravan again and again. Not only is it complimented for having a comfortable cab that is on par with the typical domestic vehicle, it handles well and is cost-efficient. The 2009 Astra which the Astravan is based on has fantastic NCAP safety results for an adult which is a big bonus although the pre-2009 models received very respectable ratings. Still, if you are transporting smaller goods across the country, the Astravan is the sensible choice for fuel economy but realistically, a bigger van may be needed for the job. In which case, the next step up is the Vauxhall Vivaro.

Unfortunately, the Vivaro has attracted less glowing reviews compared to the smaller Astravan. Main faults appear to be a weak gearbox and various other complaints relating to bearings on older models. Yet, the Vivaro has won the top award for ‘Best Medium Van’ seven times since 2001 in the Van Fleet World Awards which is an impressive feat which could indicate that only a vocal minority have experienced real problems. Often hailed as roomy and comfortable, the Vivaro does appear to be a great contender for long drives when you require space. Reviewers report that the engine can be rather noisy but quietens down once fifth gear is selected which suggests that the vehicle was intended for motorway use.

However, if you are planning on hiring a vehicle like the Vauxhall Vivaro, please check your driving licence. Drivers who passed their test before January 1997 are entitled to drive this vehicle but drivers who have passed their test since January 1997 need to pass an extra test to add the C1 classification to their licence. The Vivaro and its bigger brother, the Movano both are capable of carrying large loads but very large loads should be left to specialist fleets e.g. HGVs.

Off Road
If you are intending to do a lot of agricultural work or mostly operate in the country, the Vauxhall Frontera is a good choice. For those who do not have deep enough pockets to cover the purchase of a Jeep or Land Rover, the Vauxhall Frontera is a sensible and logical choice. Vauxhall have not made the Frontera since 2004, but second hand models are available for good 4X4 entry level vehicle. The cab is set lower than traditional 4X4s which gives it reasonable side protection. Unfortunately, the 2002 model that was tested by Euro NCAP described pedestrian safety as “dire” and that child occupant safety was questionable. Adults fared better but driver safety was impaired with front passenger results being marginally better. 2003 models are often recommended. Similar vehicles for similar money would be up to five years older for the same money but alternatives include the Mitsubishi Shogun and the Ford Maverick.

Transporting Colleagues
If you work with one other colleague, any of the aforementioned vans are suitable for two people, possibly with the exception of the Corsavan for two exceptionally taller occupants. The Vauxhall Movano seats 3 passengers and similar vehicles include the Ford Transit and the Mercedes Sprinter.

Other questions you need to consider:

- How much can you afford? Businesses have been known to collapse due to unwise vehicle choices which also include road tax, servicing and insurance.
- How long do you expect to keep it? If you only need a van for a short term, it may be best to consider rental as you will not have to cover the cost of depreciation or servicing etc.
- Will the van be used for towing? In which case the Frontera or the Vivaro/Movano are the better choices but may require extra classifications being added to your driving licence.
- How much time will be spent in the vehicle? If you are intending to drive the vehicle for many hours then comfort should be a big consideration.
- If something goes wrong, do you know where you can take your vehicle for genuine Vauxhall van parts?

For all those who have a great passion towards cars but thinks that owning the world’s best car always requires a good amount of money and are too expensive, its time to change your perception. Today the auto industry in Australia is witnessing a next revolution. If we carefully look at the current scenario then we may find that in the last few years the auto industry in Australia has witnessed the introduction of some of the best car models that has world-class features and available at economical prices. In fact, today there are many auto dealers who are offering and selling some of the best cars available in the auto market. Starting from sports sedans to utility vehicles, in next few months’ car lovers can expect something more in order to suit every taste and price range. So in case you are really looking to purchase a car this year, here are some of the best known models that are available and can be considered as best options:

FORD FG FALCON – This car model can be the best option if you are looking forward to have a stylish car at a great price. Bigger and more efficient and with more auto gadgetry than ever before, this new model of Ford Falcon can make a first impression last throughout a lifetime. Stretch the legs and there’s more room, flick the wheel and there is an improved response. The seats are cloth-trimmed. And, adding to this, it has safety features such as pre-tensioned seatbelts, dual stage front airbags and side airbags are available. Entertainment has been taken care of along with the excellent interior that centres with 100 watt audio system and LCD screen. Every facet of car is much more improved and balanced. No doubt, its appearance and performance is definitely a subject on its own. Owning this car can be a real experience of driving a sedan at a very economical price.

TOYOTA HILUX – The model that was once considered and suited only for tradesmen is now one of the most preferred passenger car models. Greater space and comfort, especially in the back seat along with smooth and powerful 4.0 V6 are few features that makes it more popular among car lovers who love to own dynamic looking cars at feasible prices. In addition, today this model is available in 14 4×2 models, 16 4×4 models, three cabin styles, three equipment grades (Work mate, SR and SR5) and offers a choice of three engines – 2.7-litre, 4-cylinder petrol; 4.0-litre V6 petrol or 3.0-litre turbo-diesel. It is reasonably priced and there are only few other models that can meet the features and performance of Toyota Hilux.

NISSAN 300ZX – This is another cheap car that actually enjoys some of the best engineering technologies. Debuting in the year 1990, the 300ZX car model from Nissan is the fastest and best-handling Z to date. Today, this model is available with two motors, the first being a 3.0L 6 cylinder with 222 hp and the second a 3.0L Twin Turbo 6 cylinder with 300 hp. If we talk in terms of its look and performance then it is still flawless and there can be no comparison. In every way, the 300ZX is still capable of getting the head turn every where it goes. It boasts a powerful light-weight 60° twin-turbo 24-valve V6 engine, and so capable of reaching 155 mph and 0-100 km/h in around 5.6 seconds. It even features excellent exterior styling, partially retractable headlights and “droop snoot” bonnet line that has improved the aerodynamics for better handling, and can let you enjoy a quiet ride too.

HYUNDAI LANTRA – If you are looking for a car that can give you value for money then Hyundai Lantra could be the most feasible option. The wedgy shape is quite desirable, too clean & smart and very modern. In size, the car lies somewhere between a Ford Focus and a Vauxhall Vectra and could realistically be pitched against cars in either category. Adding to this, in relation to the performance, particularly from the free revving 1.8, this model is willing and reasonably economical. Apart from this, interior space in the rear is better than you might be expecting after a glance at the exterior dimensions. No doubt, it could be the best alternative.

Today it is not that difficult to get the best car for your money. The point that you need to take care is you must perform a good research and compare the features of the car in order to get the best deals. Owning and driving a car actually matters, and so it is always better to make a selection considering the features and price factor.

Automarket.com.au provides widest range of cheap cars for sale of different makes and models. Best portal to buy a car or sell a car in Australia. With thousands of car dealers advertising through this website you get a wide range of used and new cars for sale.