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DOUBLE VISION
Page 60
Page 61
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Revisions to the Vauxhall Movano and its Renault Vaster sibling have given these vehicles a new lease of life.
Julian Milnes reports.
When updating a vehicle to keep it competitive, manufacturers decide between two options One method is to address all the faults and complaints which had been levelled at the original model, presenting the result with a 'new and improved' announcement and subsequent PR fanfare. When it should really be called 'the one we should have made in the first place.' Believe us, there are plenty around.
The other option is to build on the attributes of the already well developed vehicle, adding to its solid credentials and breathing new life into the van. Originally introduced in 1998, the Movano and Master quickly became established in the 3.5-tonne market.
at last creating serious competition for Ford, which had enjoyed a cushy run with its market Vauxhall and Renault have now deemed it time fora mid-life makeover.And although age is not on their side, there are few weak points to be addressed. After all, the original was above average for the class to start with, so the makeover tends more towards enhancement than being a fault-rectifying exercise.
The new models gets a redesigned front, which incorporates Vauxhall's largest `V' grille on the Movano and Renault's corporate face already seen on its Kangoo and Trafic vans now sits on the Master. The headlights are restyled, and the indicators are now located in the bumpers on the Movano. The rear also gets a revised lighting layout. Interior changes include a new-look dashboard with mounted gearshift,extra storage space.improved seats and a driver's air bag as standard.
The engine line-up has been improved with the addition of two new common-rail turbodieselsa 100hp 2.5 and a Nissan-sourced 136hp 3.0-litre unit, both of which come with a six-speed gearbox.
The Movano also gets a new 80hp 1.9-litre turbo-diesel. Uprated brakes feature a new ABS system with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution which maximises power to each wheel for optimum control. It's claimed that they set new benchmarks for the segment.
Worth the wait?
Lxternal changes to the Movano have resulted in a more modern look that is in keeping with the current trend for large headlamps and dominating grille — although it looks a little cross-eyed from certain angles.The rear lamps are a more subtle design.
In the cab, the new dash is a significant improvement. with plenty of storage space, and the seats are comfortable.A decent driving position is easily achievable. Build quality is commendable, and the cabin feels well constructed.
On the road, the Movano is stable and secure, even on twisty B-roads. Body roll in corners is minimal, and the suspension offers a positive yet safe action. Steering is very direct for such a large van,although the 'wheel at each corner' layout can lead to a rather sharp turn-in:The dash-mounted gearshift provides more floorspace, adding to the cabin's airy feel.
The new 3.0-litre engine provided the Movano with some useful extra performance. and it pulled strongly from low down.Acceleration was brisk, and the six-speed gearbox was easy to operate with well spaced ratios, even if top is a bit too long.
As for the Master, all the good qualities from the Movano were present, and we found it a pleasurable companion on the challenging test route from Nice to StTropez— even when fully loaded.Tight curves and changing cambers were handled with aplomb, while the build quality inspired confidence, even when looking over 1,000ft drops.
Impressive brake testing on the track added weight to the company's claims of 'best-inclass' performance, too. Overall, the revamp has made improvements to an already impressive package.There's every reason to expect these models to continue their success. •