Vauxhall Movano
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a large van that can handle serious commercial work without breaking the bank? The Vauxhall Movano might be exactly what your business needs. This full size commercial van offers impressive payload capacity, generous cargo space, and competitive pricing that makes it attractive to businesses of all sizes. It’s designed for operators who need maximum carrying capacity and don’t want to compromise on practicality.

From the outside, the Movano looks purposeful and robust. Its boxy design maximizes internal space while maintaining good aerodynamics for fuel efficiency. Rivals like the Ford Transit and Renault Master offer similar capabilities, but the Movano often undercuts them on price. The cab feels well built and functional, with controls positioned for easy access during long working days. You get the impression this is a van designed by people who understand commercial vehicle requirements.

Driving the Movano reveals its strengths as a workhorse. The diesel engines provide good torque for heavy loads and reasonable fuel economy for the size. It handles predictably even when fully loaded, giving you confidence on busy roads or tight delivery routes. While it may not have the most refined ride or latest technology, it delivers where it matters most. The Movano represents solid value for money, especially when you consider the generous warranty and competitive servicing costs that help keep your business moving.

What's the Vauxhall Movano Like to Drive?

The Vauxhall Movano is built around proven diesel engines designed for commercial durability. The 2.3 CDTi unit produces between 110 and 165 horsepower depending on specification, providing adequate performance for most commercial applications. The lower powered versions suit urban delivery work, while the 165hp variant offers stronger acceleration for motorway driving and heavier loads. All engines deliver their power smoothly and feel unstressed even under load.

Where the Movano excels is in its load carrying ability and driving stability. The large van chassis feels solid and composed, even with a full payload aboard. The steering is direct and well weighted, making it easy to place accurately in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned for load carrying rather than comfort, which means it can feel firm when empty but settles down nicely with weight in the back. Braking performance is strong and progressive, giving you confidence when stopping with heavy loads. This is a van that prioritises capability over refinement.

Inside the Vauxhall Movano: Comfort & Features

Step into the Movano’s cab and you’ll find a functional, business focused environment. The dashboard layout is straightforward with clearly marked controls and good visibility all around. Material quality is adequate rather than premium, but everything feels robust enough to withstand daily commercial use. The seats offer reasonable support for long drives, though they’re not as refined as those in premium vans.

Storage solutions are well thought out with plenty of compartments for paperwork, tools, and personal items. The infotainment system includes DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity as standard, with smartphone integration available on higher specifications. Road noise is well controlled for a commercial vehicle, making conversation possible even at motorway speeds. Climate control keeps the cab comfortable in all weather conditions. While not luxurious, the interior provides everything needed for productive working days without unnecessary frills that would increase costs.

The Vauxhall Movano succeeds by focusing on commercial essentials rather than trying to be all things to all users. It offers competitive pricing, strong payload capacity, and proven reliability that business operators value most. The driving experience is competent rather than exciting, but that’s appropriate for its intended role as a working vehicle.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Vauxhall Movano?

As a commercial vehicle, the Movano is designed with running costs in mind. Fuel economy ranges from 32 to 38 mpg depending on engine and body configuration, which is competitive for the sector. The diesel engines are proven and reliable, helping to minimize unexpected repair bills. Service intervals are sensibly spaced to reduce downtime, and parts availability is good through Vauxhall’s commercial network.

The key advantage is the competitive purchase price compared to premium alternatives. Insurance costs are moderate for the class, though they will vary significantly based on usage and driver experience. When considering total cost of ownership, the Movano often comes out ahead thanks to strong residual values and lower initial depreciation. car finance options are available through Vauxhall Commercial, including hire purchase and leasing arrangements tailored to business needs. The comprehensive warranty provides additional peace of mind for operators concerned about unexpected costs.

Is the Vauxhall Movano Practical for Everyday Use?

The Movano’s greatest strength lies in its exceptional practicality for commercial users. Load volumes range from 8.0 to 17.0 cubic metres depending on body configuration, with generous payload capacities reaching up to 2,000kg in some versions. The loading area features a low floor and wide opening doors, making it easy to load bulky items or use lifting equipment. Side and rear door configurations can be tailored to specific business requirements.

Inside the cab, storage solutions are plentiful with door pockets, dashboard compartments, and overhead storage for paperwork and tools. The driving position offers excellent visibility for manoeuvring in tight spaces, while the turning circle is reasonable for such a large vehicle. Compared to other used Vauxhall cars, the Movano is purely focused on commercial applications rather than passenger comfort. For businesses needing maximum carrying capacity at minimum cost, the Movano delivers exactly what’s needed without unnecessary complications.

The Vauxhall Movano stands out in the competitive large van market by offering exceptional value without compromising on essential commercial capabilities. It combines generous payload capacity, competitive fuel economy, and robust build quality into an affordable package that makes business sense. While it may lack some of the refinement found in premium alternatives, it delivers where commercial users need it most.

You choose the Movano because it prioritises substance over style, offering maximum carrying capacity for minimum outlay. The proven diesel engines, comprehensive warranty, and extensive dealer network provide additional reassurance for business operators. If you need a reliable commercial workhorse that won’t strain your budget, especially with cars under £10,000 available on the used market, the Movano deserves serious consideration for your fleet.