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LIGHT
Page 8
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Interesting times are ahead for the light van sector — hitting the market this year are a number of new model launches and promising revamps certain to challenge the established order. Julian Milnes reports.
It is the calm before the storm, as the light van market is about to undergo major changes with the introduction this year of several key new models. Already off the line we have Peugeot's 207 van, which takes the company's traditional qualities of sound chassis and engine and wraps them up in the build quality that we've been waiting for.
Facing off against the Peugeot is Vauxhall's new Corsavan. Based on the passenger version, which has garnered plenty of plaudits, the commercial version's abilities remain very much intact thanks to an entertaining drive, high-quality build and practicality.
Also new to the market is Fiat's Grande Punto (again based on the latest version of an established passenger car with the rear seats removed), whose larger size and improved construction may take it into the mainstream.
Still to roll on to these shores is Renault's stylish new Kangoo van, which will compete with the Citroen/Peugeot/Fiat small van collaboration -both vehicles were revealed at the European RoadTransport Show late last year and will be in the shops later this year.
Building on arguably the strongest product in the sector is Volkswagen with its Caddy Maxi.Taking on Ford's Connect LWB, which has also had a recent update, it is basically an extended version to free up more loadspace -though the addition of a 140hp DSG option makes it an interesting proposition.
El sewhere,Vauxhall's Astravan is continuing to impress though its Combo is now being moved slightly down the pecking order to make way for the new arrivals, and the same goes for Citroen's long-serving and capable Berlingo.