Opel and Vauxhall Unveil 2015 Vivaro Van with New Engines and Design
The new-generation Vivaro, sharing its platform with the Renault Trafic, arrives for 2015 with updated styling, a revised 1.6-litre diesel engine and two body lengths.
Opel and Vauxhall have officially revealed the 2015 Vivaro, marking the debut of a new generation for the popular mid-sized van. Closely related to the recently unveiled Renault Trafic, the 2015 Vivaro shares its platform and much of its engineering with its French cousin. This collaboration brings updated styling, improved efficiency, and greater flexibility for commercial vehicle buyers across Europe.
2015 Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro Unveiled: A New Generation of Mid-Sized Van
Design and Styling Updates
The 2015 Vivaro introduces a more modern and distinctive appearance, featuring a large front grille, wraparound headlights, and chrome detailing. Glossy black mouldings add a contemporary touch and help distinguish the new model from its predecessor. While the overall silhouette remains familiar to those in the segment, these updates reflect Opel and Vauxhall’s efforts to keep the Vivaro competitive and visually appealing for both fleet operators and small businesses.
Engine and Fuel Efficiency
Under the bonnet, the 2015 Vivaro is powered by a 1.6-litre CDTI diesel engine. This unit is designed to offer improved fuel economy compared to previous generations, with Opel and Vauxhall stating that it matches the Renault Trafic’s 1.6 dCi engine. The official combined fuel consumption is claimed at 6.0 litres per 100 km (47 mpg UK, 39 mpg US), placing the Vivaro among the more economical choices in its class at the time of launch. This focus on efficiency is particularly important for business customers seeking to minimise running costs and emissions.
At the time of unveiling, further technical details such as power output, torque figures, and transmission choices had not yet been released. The emphasis remains on improved running costs and emissions, which are priorities for the target market of fleet and small business buyers. As more information becomes available closer to the on-sale date, details about engine variants and drivetrain options are expected to be announced.
Body Styles, Colour Options, and Customisation
The new Vivaro offers buyers the flexibility required for a wide range of commercial applications. Two body lengths and two roof heights are available, allowing customers to select the configuration that best suits their business needs. This flexibility is key in the light commercial vehicle segment, where cargo space and accessibility are major considerations.
- Two body lengths
- Two roof heights
- Eleven exterior colour options (five solid, six metallic)
- Additional hues for special versions
Opel and Vauxhall have expanded the Vivaro’s appeal by offering a choice of eleven exterior colours, including five solid and six two-coat metallic finishes. There are also specific hues available for special versions, catering to customers who want a distinctive or branded vehicle presence. This broad palette is designed to meet the needs of both large fleet operators and independent businesses seeking to stand out.
Production and Assembly Locations
Production of the 2015 Vivaro is split between two sites to serve key markets efficiently. The Opel-branded Vivaro will be built at Renault’s Sandouville facility in France, while the Vauxhall version will continue to be assembled at the Luton plant in the UK. This approach not only supports local employment but also ensures a steady supply for both continental European and British customers.
Market Position and Availability
The Vivaro remains a crucial model for both Opel and Vauxhall in the highly competitive light commercial vehicle market. It competes directly with the Renault Trafic and other mid-sized vans, offering a balance of practicality, efficiency, and customisation. The 2015 Vivaro is scheduled to reach showrooms in summer 2014. At the time of unveiling, pricing details had not yet been disclosed, but further announcements are expected closer to the launch date.
For buyers comparing options in the segment, the Vivaro’s combination of new design, improved efficiency, and flexible configurations makes it a strong contender. It is expected to appeal to a wide range of commercial users, from large fleets to small businesses.
Comparison with Rivals and Segment Context
The 2015 Vivaro enters a segment that includes established rivals such as the Ford Transit Custom, Volkswagen Transporter, and the new Renault Trafic. Its updated platform and shared engineering with Renault allow it to compete on both price and running costs. The availability of multiple body styles and a wide range of colours provides additional flexibility, which is increasingly valued by business customers. For those interested in other new vans and MPVs launched around the same period, models like the Volkswagen Touran MPV’s 2015 update also reflect the trend towards greater efficiency and customisation in the commercial vehicle market.
Summary
With its unveiling, the 2015 Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro brings a fresh approach to the mid-sized van segment. The combination of modern styling, improved fuel efficiency, and extensive customisation options positions it as a strong choice for businesses seeking a practical and cost-effective commercial vehicle. As it reaches showrooms in summer 2014, further details on pricing and technical specifications are anticipated, giving prospective buyers more information to inform their purchasing decisions.
