Vauxhall Combo
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a van that works as hard as you do without breaking the bank? The Vauxhall Combo might be exactly what your business needs. This practical small van has built a solid reputation for reliability and value, offering impressive load space and car-like driving dynamics in a compact package. It’s the van for small businesses, tradespeople, and anyone who needs serious cargo capacity without the bulk of a larger commercial vehicle.

From the outside, the Combo looks purposeful and professional. Its clean lines and robust build quality give it a confident presence that stands out from budget rivals. The latest generation brings a more modern appearance with updated styling that looks fresh and contemporary. But the real strength of the Combo becomes clear when you open those rear doors. The load bay is genuinely impressive for a van of this size, with excellent access and thoughtful details that make loading and unloading easier.

Driving the Combo feels reassuringly car-like rather than van-like. The engines are efficient and well-suited to everyday work duties, from city deliveries to longer motorway journeys. It handles predictably and offers good visibility all round, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While it faces tough competition from established rivals, the Combo offers a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and value that makes every working day a little easier. The attractive pricing and competitive running costs help justify the investment for growing businesses.

What's the Vauxhall Combo Like to Drive?

The Vauxhall Combo focuses on efficiency and reliability rather than outright performance. The diesel engine lineup centers around proven 1.5-liter turbodiesel units producing between 75 and 130 horsepower. The entry level 75hp version provides adequate power for light loads and urban work, while the 100hp and 130hp variants offer stronger pulling power for heavier cargo and motorway driving. The electric version delivers instant torque that makes city driving particularly smooth and responsive.

Where the Combo truly excels is in its everyday usability. The steering is light and precise at low speeds, making tight parking maneuvers straightforward. The suspension provides a good balance between load carrying ability and ride comfort, soaking up most road imperfections without feeling bouncy when empty. The small van handles predictably and safely, with good stability even when fully loaded. This makes it a confidence inspiring choice for drivers who need a reliable workhorse that won’t intimidate less experienced van users.

How Comfortable Is the Vauxhall Combo?

Step into the Combo’s cab and you’ll find a surprisingly car-like environment. The dashboard is clean and functional, with intuitive controls that are easy to use while wearing work gloves. The materials feel robust and hard wearing, designed to cope with daily commercial use. Higher spec versions include a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, making hands-free calls and navigation simple and safe.

The driver’s seat offers good support and plenty of adjustment to help you find a comfortable position for long working days. Cab storage is excellent, with numerous cubbyholes, cup holders, and door pockets to keep your tools, documents, and personal items organized. Road noise is well controlled for a commercial vehicle, and the heating and ventilation system works effectively. The optional passenger seat folds down to create a useful workspace, while twin sliding doors on passenger versions make access incredibly easy. Overall, it’s a pleasant environment that makes the working day more comfortable.

## Vauxhall Combo Running Costs, Reliability & Finance Options

The Combo’s running costs are genuinely impressive and represent one of its strongest selling points. The efficient diesel engines deliver real world fuel economy of 45 to 55 mpg, depending on your driving style and load. This translates to lower fuel bills and extended range between fill-ups. Insurance costs are reasonable for the class, helped by good safety equipment and a solid reputation for reliability.

The purchase price is competitive, undercutting many premium rivals while offering similar levels of equipment and capability. Maintenance costs are kept in check by Vauxhall’s widespread dealer network and the availability of affordable parts. The electric version qualifies for various government incentives and has virtually zero running costs for local deliveries. With flexible car finance options available, the Combo becomes accessible to businesses of all sizes. Factor in strong residual values and low depreciation, and the total cost of ownership becomes very attractive indeed.

## How Does It Compare?

Compare key features and specifications with similar priced competitors

| Feature | Vauxhall Combo | Ford Transit Connect | Citroen Berlingo |
| ————— | —————————————————- | —————————————————– | —————————————————– |
| Starting Price | £22,000 | £24,000 | £21,500 |
| Engine | 1.5L Diesel 100hp | 1.5L Diesel 100hp | 1.5L Diesel 100hp |
| Load Volume | 3.3 – 4.4m³ | 2.9 – 3.6m³ | 3.3 – 4.4m³ |
| Payload | 650 – 1000kg | 690 – 900kg | 650 – 1000kg |
| Fuel Economy | 50 mpg | 48 mpg | 52 mpg |
| Electric Option | Yes (171 miles) | No | Yes (174 miles) |
| Key Features | Excellent value, Good load space, Electric available | Strong build, Proven reliability, Wide dealer network | Comfortable ride, Good equipment, Competitive pricing |

## Is the Vauxhall Combo Practical for Everyday Use?

For a small van, the Combo delivers outstanding practicality. The load bay offers between 3.3 and 4.4 cubic meters of cargo space, depending on wheelbase length. The loading height is sensibly low, making heavy items easier to handle, while the wide rear opening and square load bay shape maximize usable space. Standard features like load lashing points, a full height bulkhead, and optional side loading door add real world functionality.

The Combo works brilliantly for small businesses, tradespeople, and delivery services. It fits into standard parking spaces and navigates narrow streets with confidence, yet offers genuinely useful cargo capacity. If you regularly need to carry passengers as well as cargo, the Combo Life passenger version seats up to seven people while maintaining decent luggage space. Compared to other used Vauxhall cars, the Combo represents exceptional value for money in the commercial vehicle sector. Its compact external dimensions disguise impressive internal versatility that adapts to changing business needs.

## Expert Verdict

The Vauxhall Combo succeeds by focusing on the fundamentals that matter most to working van users. It offers impressive load capacity, excellent fuel economy, and competitive pricing wrapped in a package that’s easy to drive and live with daily. The ride quality and refinement exceed expectations for a commercial vehicle, making long days behind the wheel less tiring.

The main limitation is that it lacks the premium feel of some German rivals, though this is reflected in the lower purchase price. It’s not the most exciting van to drive, but excitement isn’t the point here. The point is reliable, efficient, cost effective transport for your business. The Combo delivers this with impressive competence. If you need a practical small van that combines value with capability, the Combo deserves serious consideration. It proves that commercial vehicles don’t have to compromise on comfort or running costs.

## Customer Review

“Bought our Combo for the decorating business and it’s been brilliant. Loads of space for ladders and materials, really economical on fuel, and surprisingly comfortable on long jobs. The only minor issue is the infotainment can be slow to start up, but everything else has been faultless.” by Mark Thompson

## Vauxhall Combo Summary

The Vauxhall Combo stands out in the competitive small van market by delivering exceptional practicality and value for money. It combines impressive load capacity, excellent fuel economy, and car-like driving dynamics in a package that works hard for growing businesses. While it may not have the premium badge appeal of some rivals, it excels in the areas that matter most for commercial users.

You choose the Combo because you need a van that makes business sense. Its competitive pricing, low running costs, and impressive reliability record make every working day more profitable. Whether you’re making local deliveries or longer trips, the Combo provides the space, efficiency, and comfort to get the job done. For businesses looking for a dependable small van under £25,000, the Combo represents outstanding value that’s hard to beat in today’s market.

## Your Vauxhall Combo Questions Answered

### Is the Vauxhall Combo reliable for daily business use?

Yes, the Vauxhall Combo has proven to be very reliable for daily commercial use. The engines are well-established units with a good track record, and the overall build quality is solid. Many businesses report trouble-free operation over high mileages. Regular servicing is important, but maintenance costs are reasonable thanks to Vauxhall’s extensive dealer network and competitive parts pricing.

### What should I check when buying a used Vauxhall Combo?

When inspecting a used Combo, pay close attention to the load bay for damage from heavy use. Check the rear doors operate smoothly and the floor isn’t damaged. For diesel models, ensure the DPF system has been maintained properly through regular longer journeys. Examine service records carefully and test all electrical systems including lights, central locking, and infotainment. Any unusual engine noises or excessive exhaust smoke should be investigated.

### How does the Vauxhall Combo compare to the Ford Transit Connect?

The Combo and Transit Connect are closely matched competitors. The Combo typically offers better value for money with lower purchase prices and running costs. Ford’s offering provides a slightly more premium feel and stronger residual values. Both deliver similar load capacity and fuel economy. Your choice may come down to local dealer support, specific equipment requirements, and personal brand preference.

### Is the electric Vauxhall Combo worth considering?

The electric Combo makes excellent sense for urban businesses with predictable daily mileage. The 171-mile range covers most local delivery rounds, while the instant torque makes city driving smooth and quiet. Running costs are extremely low, and you’ll benefit from congestion charge exemptions in many cities. However, the higher purchase price means it works best for businesses with consistent daily use rather than occasional van users.

### What payload can the Vauxhall Combo carry?

The Combo’s payload varies from 650kg to 1000kg depending on the specific model and wheelbase length. The standard L1H1 version typically manages around 750kg, while longer wheelbase models can carry up to 1000kg. This makes it suitable for most small business applications, from tool carrying to light delivery work. Always check the specific payload figure for your chosen model, as optional equipment can reduce the available capacity.

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## Meta Title

Vauxhall Combo Review: Specs, Performance & Finance Options

## Meta Description

Vauxhall Combo review: discover specs, pricing, and real world performance. Practical small van with excellent value and flexible finance options.

The Vauxhall Combo succeeds by focusing on the fundamentals that matter most to working van users. It offers impressive load capacity, excellent fuel economy, and competitive pricing wrapped in a package that’s easy to drive and live with daily. The ride quality and refinement exceed expectations for a commercial vehicle, making long days behind the wheel less tiring.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Vauxhall Combo Running Costs, Reliability & Finance Options

The Combo’s running costs are genuinely impressive and represent one of its strongest selling points. The efficient diesel engines deliver real world fuel economy of 45 to 55 mpg, depending on your driving style and load. This translates to lower fuel bills and extended range between fill-ups. Insurance costs are reasonable for the class, helped by good safety equipment and a solid reputation for reliability.

The purchase price is competitive, undercutting many premium rivals while offering similar levels of equipment and capability. Maintenance costs are kept in check by Vauxhall’s widespread dealer network and the availability of affordable parts. The electric version qualifies for various government incentives and has virtually zero running costs for local deliveries. With flexible car finance options available, the Combo becomes accessible to businesses of all sizes. Factor in strong residual values and low depreciation, and the total cost of ownership becomes very attractive indeed.

Is the Vauxhall Combo Practical for Everyday Use?

For a small van, the Combo delivers outstanding practicality. The load bay offers between 3.3 and 4.4 cubic meters of cargo space, depending on wheelbase length. The loading height is sensibly low, making heavy items easier to handle, while the wide rear opening and square load bay shape maximize usable space. Standard features like load lashing points, a full height bulkhead, and optional side loading door add real world functionality.

The Combo works brilliantly for small businesses, tradespeople, and delivery services. It fits into standard parking spaces and navigates narrow streets with confidence, yet offers genuinely useful cargo capacity. If you regularly need to carry passengers as well as cargo, the Combo Life passenger version seats up to seven people while maintaining decent luggage space. Compared to other used Vauxhall cars, the Combo represents exceptional value for money in the commercial vehicle sector. Its compact external dimensions disguise impressive internal versatility that adapts to changing business needs.

The Vauxhall Combo stands out in the competitive small van market by delivering exceptional practicality and value for money. It combines impressive load capacity, excellent fuel economy, and car-like driving dynamics in a package that works hard for growing businesses. While it may not have the premium badge appeal of some rivals, it excels in the areas that matter most for commercial users.

You choose the Combo because you need a van that makes business sense. Its competitive pricing, low running costs, and impressive reliability record make every working day more profitable. Whether you’re making local deliveries or longer trips, the Combo provides the space, efficiency, and comfort to get the job done. For businesses looking for a dependable small van under £25,000, the Combo represents outstanding value that’s hard to beat in today’s market.