VAUXHALL REVEALS ALL-NEW COMBO VAN
Arriving in Scottish Vauxhall showrooms in December 2018, the Combo is based on an all-new architecture and is available in several variants, including short wheelbase, long wheelbase and crew cab. It can carry a load volume of up to 4.4m3 and a payload of up to a tonne.
Longer items up to 3440mm, such as pipes and ladders, can be stored at an angle without having to leave the rear door open, thanks to the rear swing-doors and roof hatch.
In crew cab body style, there’s room for the driver and up to five passengers, while the load is safely stowed behind a partition wall. In addition, you can fold down the rear bench and move the partition behind the front seats if you choose.
Innovative technology
For added peace of mind, there’s a sensor-based load indicator that warns you if the van is overloaded. And once the engine is switched on, a white LED lights up if the weight exceeds 80 per cent of the permitted payload, keeping the van safe.
If the weight is above the limit, an orange signal with an exclamation mark lights up.
Other innovations include a rear-view camera that acts as a digital rear-view mirror, and a second camera in the passenger-side door mirror which gives the driver an additional blind-spot detection aid.
The Flank Guard is a sensor-based system that supports the driver while turning at low speeds. This provides a warning when there’s a risk that the vehicle’s side will collide with an obstacle. IntelliGrip, Vauxhall’s electronic traction control system, is also available.
The permanent rear-view camera displays the area behind the van on the infotainment screen as soon as reverse is selected, showing guidelines to assist manoeuvring. It also displays an area (4m to 30m behind the vehicle) when driving, meaning it can be used as a digital rear-view mirror.
A second camera fitted in the exterior door mirror on the passenger side further improves the overall view. As soon as the passenger side indicator is activated, the passenger-side view is shown on the monitor, helping to improve safety for all road users.
An impressive list of driver-assistance tech is available, including:
Forward collision alert, with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking
Lane keep assist
Hill descent control
Intelligent speed adaptation
Automatic cruise control
Driver drowsiness alert
Speed sign recognition
Connectivity
The new generation of infotainment systems ensures outstanding on-board connectivity.
The Apple CarPlay- and Android Auto-compatible Multimedia Radio and Multimedia Navi Pro systems can easily be controlled via the eight-inch colour touchscreen. The integrated navigation system of the top-of-range-line unit, with European maps and 3D navigation, also shows Traffic Messaging Channel updates – ensuring that drivers can always select the best route and avoid traffic.
Elsewhere, the heated front seats and steering wheel offer added comfort when the temperature drops.
“Vauxhall’s all-new Combo raises the bar in the compact van segment,” said Derek Wilson, Vauxhall’s LCV Director. “Practical, comfortable and packed with all latest driver assistance and connectivity technology, the new Combo is the small van that meets all your business needs.”
Combo Life
The Combo’s sister vehicle, the all-new Combo Life lifestyle vehicle, has arrived in our Inverness, Dingwall, Buckie and Elgin showrooms, priced from £20,530 on-the-road.
Versatile, practical and spacious, it’s aimed at active families and empty-nesters and is available to order now as either a five- or seven-seater passenger car.