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Going for Gold

16th September 2004
Page 28
Page 28, 16th September 2004 — Going for Gold
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Which of the following most accurately describes the problem?

As VW's Transporter comes to the end of its year as International

Van of the Year (IVoY) the jury is considering its successor. CMStest

team reviews the 2004 candidates.

The race for the title International Van of the Year (IVoY) will reach its climax next week when the award is handed over at the IAA international truck show in Hanover. As ever it looks like being a close battle, with three out of the six candidates appearing to have a strong chance of victory. We'll be announcing the winner in next week's issue, but for now let's pick out the serious contenders from the also-rans.

Ford Transit DCI Simply adding a new common-rail engine, no matter how impressive the performance might be, is not enough to put the Transit in the front line of potential winners for 2005. For the record the new motor was launched in the spring (CM 6 May); as well as featuring the latest state-of-the-art combustion technology, it gives the Transit a power boost to 132hp.

Interestingly Ford has chosen not to join in a power race,preferring instead to give the Transit a sector-leading torque output to ensure optimum driveability and laden performance. It shows impressive driveline development.but has little chance of IVoY glory Mercedes-Benz Vito

Although it was launched last year, the new Vito was not eligible for the 2003 award, because it didn't go into production until the final quarter, which ruled it out as a candidate according to the IVoY rules.

However, the delay has done nothing to diminish its chances and it enters the arena as one of this year's front runners. The all-new van and cockpit design is impressive and, while the move to rear-wheel drive doesn't find favour with all users, the Vito's performance and on-road handling are at the top of the division. The Vito is very much one for the shortlist.

Renault Mascott/Master

Ostensibly this candidate is the Renault Mascott, although to avoid confusion Renault has decided to re-brand sub-3.5-tonne versions of this model the Ma ste r.La unched in 1999, the Mascott came with an impressive specification list but has barely bothered the scorers in terms of new truck sales.

Renault is expecting better of the new-look version: we've already decided the "new incarnation is even better in virtually every respect" (CM 20 May 2004). Renault's is a strong bid this year, despite the confusion over whether it's Master or Mascott. Vauxhall Combo

Like the Transit, the Combo received an engine upgrade this year. No had thing, but without any other improvements to the range it's difficult to see the Combo grabbing this year's top prize.

The engine changes to the Combo include the addition of the 1.7-litre CDTi already used in the Astravan and arrival of a 70hp 1.3-litre unit. Impressive as it is, this is unlikely to be enough to trouble the judges.

Volkswagen Caddy

This is one of the clear favourites for the 2005 crown, following hot on the heels of the company's success with the Transporter.Built in Poland, the new Caddy is a major improvement on what went before with a commendably spacious driving area, abundant cargo space and assured on-road behaviour.

Early indications are that the market has viewed the Caddy as being over-specced and over-priced for cost-conscious UK buyers. But that really shouldn't damage its IVoY credentials too much and we'll be extremely surprised if the Caddy isn't gunning for top honours in Hanover, •

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