Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro A HistoryOpel Vivaro A (sold as Vauxhall Vivaro in the UK) entered the market in 2001 as Opel’s modern mid-size van and a direct sister model to the second-generation Renault Trafic. The programme was developed under the Opel–Renault light-commercial cooperation agreed in the late 1990s, with responsibilities split between the partners-Renault concentrated on packaging and powertrains, while Opel took responsibility for manufacturing. From launch, Vivaro A was positioned to combine fleet-friendly practicality with a more passenger-car-oriented cab environment and styling than many direct rivals in the segment. Vauxhall Vivaro A: debut, production and early powertrainsVivaro A had its world premiere at the Brussels Light Commercial Vehicle Show in January 2001, and production of both the Vivaro and the Renault Trafic sister model started at IBC Vehicles in Luton, England. Opel’s designers highlighted the “Jumbo roof” as a defining element-its domed cabin section increased headroom and supported easier entry/egress, and Opel explicitly presented the Vivaro as a van where styling received passenger-car-level attention. At launch in early 2001, Vivaro A was front-wheel drive and offered two 1.9-litre common-rail diesels (80 hp and 100 hp) plus a 2.0-litre 16-valve petrol engine (120 hp); shortly afterwards a 2.5-litre common-rail diesel (133 hp) joined the range. Over its production life the model was repeatedly updated, including a 2006 facelift that moved the front indicators from the bumper into the headlamp units, plus later revisions to cabin trim and equipment. Vivaro A also served as a technology showcase: the Vivaro-e Concept presented at the IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in 2010 previewed electrified delivery-van thinking, with Opel describing an extended-range electric panel-van study rather than a minor trim-level change. |
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| Author: Paweł Kokot |
