The Combo grows up
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Vauxhall has released the first official picture of its new Combo. The Corsa-based highcube van features fully integrated styling, unlike the previous car-and-box design.
Although overall length is up by 93mm, there is a 236mm increase in wheelbase which allows the Vauxhall to fit side loading doors for the first time. The windscreen now extends to the full height of the body; fortunately air-con is included in a comprehensive list of safety, comfort and "infotainment" features.
Loadspace volume is 3.2m3 (2.88m3 by the tougher VDA standard) with a maximum payload of 810kg. Engine choice is between a 1.6-litre petrol unit giving 86hp, and a pair of 16-valve 17-litre turbo-diesels rated at 64 and 74hp.
The new model is scheduled
to go on sale in the autumn.
• An Astra ECO4 hatchback, fitted with the same 1.7DTI engine as the Combo, has recorded fuel consumption of 90.6mpg on the 838-mile drive from Lands End to John o'Groats.
Average speed for the journey, with a pair of economy specialists at the wheel, was 53.bmph, and at the end of the run the tank still held enough fuel for another 200 miles.