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NICE AND EASY
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If you are looking for a decent automatic light CV, the choice is limited to say the least. But will the Vauxhall Vivaro Tecshift be the one to shift the standard up a gear?
you'd think that automatics and light CVs would go hand in hand. Considering the amount of urban work that many are involved in, and in more general terms the amount of traffic on the roads, avoiding the need to shift gears constantly would seem like a good idea. But at the moment we can count only one set-up that we like (Volkswagen's Caddy DSG) and just a handful more that are available.
Why have they failed to make us happy? The way we see it,an auto shift should make driving easier and more relaxing.lbe ones we've encountered have you second-guessing their next move, especially when you are carrying a decent payload. which in turn needs more IVA'S.
So when Vauxhall lent us a VivaroTehift for assessment, we didn't fall off our chairs with excitement. Don't get us wrong, we love the Vivaro and are always enthused when we drive one. But we also thought that this particular result would be consigned to the 'could do better' bin.
Then we read the small print —six speeds, a possible 10% reduction in fuel consumption, 'self-learning' software that adapts to your driving style, and a full-load mode for those heavier-than-average situations. And there's nothing CM likes more than to test manufacturers' claims.
According to Vauxhall, the Tecshift is aimed at city users and those involved in multi-drop work. It is available as an £800 premium on the Vivaro 2.5CDT1 only (and a 1,000 one on the Movano) and allows both automatic and manual operation. Furthermore it is claimed to reduce clutch, brake pad and tyre wear. Power is rated at 133hp (99kW) at 3.500rpm while torque conies in at a respectable 310Nm (2291bft) at 2,000rpm.
Our test vehicle was a 29(X) short-wheelbase, low-roof model coming in at E16,375.
Productivity With claims of unproved fuel consumption on the table, we expected an improvement over the manual version that we had previously tested (CM 3 June 2004). However, our test route covers a variety of roads as opposed to city centres and the like (where theTecshift would no doubt come into its own).
But a figure of 34.1mpg for a laden run improved on the 32.9mpg of the manual version. An unladen run produced a strong 42.8mpg. putting it just behind the manual Volkswagen Transporter with 43.9mpg but ahead of the rest.
In the carrying stakes the Vivaro's design is excellent, and several key factors contribute to this exceptionally user-friendly set-up. For instance. flat side-walls give it box-like proportions allowing maximum use of the load space.
Then there is the low loading height. which means you don't have to strain when getting the goods in or out. And the large. fool-proof handles on the side/rear doors enable easy opening when in a rush: the rear doors also open out 180 from the initial 90' with just a pull on an integrated latch.
This particular model came with the highly recommended, optional resin-coated wooden floor covering at DM, which enables the floor to absorb rough treatment without complaint.
On the road
Located just forward of the driver's left knee, the Tecshift is integrated into the lower end of the central dashboard section. Starting up is the usual procedure of putting your foot on the brake pedal, then knock the lever to the left for either manual or auto configuration and you're off.
On take up from stationary there is just the slightest of delays as the revs build up, but torque soon takes over enabling you to accelerate at a decent pace.
Changing up produces surprisingly little delay, and though not seamless is on the same level as smooth manual shiftingand how many of us do that consistently? This may sound like par-for-the-course stuff for an auto but you would he surprised at the amount of systems that are clunky in operation, dropping off in power only to resume in dramatic style once the higher gear is engaged. Downshifting is also a handled with refinement.Though it may hang on a degree to each gear as the revs drop. this is not detrimental if you work with it. Plan your deceleration further ahead than you normally would when approaching a junction (in other words.don't wait till the last minute) and Tecshift keeps up with your next move.Then, when accelerating back up, you won't be caught flatfooted needing the correct gear for a quick getaway. Admittedly there is a delay on pick up, but not significant enough to become a hindrance.
Moreover, this user-friendly manner is complemented by the shift's ability to work with your driving st vie, shifting when you need it. In other words. there isn't a specific rev point at which it automatically changes it bases its decision on how much power your foot is asking for. if you do need more power (when carrying a heavy load, for example). press the 'kg' button and it will hold onto the revs a little longer which is most useful for tackling gradients. There is also a 'snowflake' button that switches to second gear when pulling off from stationary to avoid wheelspin in icy conditions.
Gears can also he used manually when required by knocking the lever to the left and into manual mode. All six speeds are usable by pushing the lever back and forth for up and down, and when you want to revert to automatic just knock it left again.
As for the rest of the Vivaro, it is business as usual.That means an excellent chassis, sharp steering and strong build quality. And that 2.5-litre engine strikes a line balance between power and refinement. It is still hard to find fault with the Vivaro as a driving machine, such is its ability to inspire confidence on the road.
Cab comfort While it seem like the Vivaro's interior has dated slightly on initial encounter, once you are acquainted with the layout there isn't much to dislike in the practical sense.The seating position is sound and adjusts for height as well as for length. It's comfy too, helping to keep that posterior-snug on long journeys. Adding to the smart driver environment is the steering wheel, which is well positioned and can also be adjusted for reach and rake.
There is an element of simplicity to the control layout of the Vauxhall from the easy-to-read dials to the large secondary controls such as heater and radio-that creates an uncluttered atmosphere.
One slight negative is the lack of real storage. Granted, the door bins are a decent size and there is a glovebox. but it may be found wanting for some requirements.
However there is enough space for two passengers, even if the middle person has their knees slightly hindered by the central dashboard extrusion.
On the move, the Vivaro's refinement comes to the fore. The lack of exterior noise is exceptional, especially when compared with the competition, and in Tecshift guise this is further improved with smooth shifting.
Wind and road roar are reduced to the background. even on the motorway, creating a relaxed driving environment. Although the Vivaro is a few years older than the rest of the competition, it leads the way in cocooning its occupants from the outside world. •