The Vauxhall Movano B 2.3 CDTI (146 Hp) DPF L1H2 is a large panel van produced by Vauxhall, the British brand of Stellantis, between 2010 and 2013. As a second-generation Movano, it represented a significant update to the model line, focusing on improved efficiency and practicality for commercial use. While not directly sold in the United States, the Movano – and its rebadged counterparts like the Renault Master and Nissan Interstar – is a common sight in Europe, Australia, and other markets where large vans are essential for businesses and tradespeople. The “L1H2” designation refers to the van’s body length and roof height, indicating a specific configuration within the Movano range. This model primarily served the commercial vehicle sector, offering a versatile platform for cargo transport and conversions.
Vauxhall Movano B: Overview and Market Position
The Movano B was a key component of Vauxhall’s commercial vehicle lineup, designed to compete with established rivals like the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. It was built in collaboration with Renault, sharing a platform and many components with the Renault Master. This collaboration allowed Vauxhall to offer a competitive product without the extensive development costs associated with a completely independent design. The Movano B aimed to provide a balance of load capacity, fuel efficiency, and reliability, catering to a wide range of commercial applications, from delivery services to mobile workshops. The 2.3 CDTI engine variant, producing 146 horsepower, was a popular choice, offering a good compromise between performance and fuel economy for typical van usage.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Movano B 2.3 CDTI is a 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated M9T 680. This engine produces 146 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 350 Newton-meters (258.15 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 2750 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The front, transverse engine layout contributes to a relatively compact engine bay, maximizing interior space. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. The weight-to-power ratio of 12.3 kg/Hp and 81.1 Hp/tonne indicates a reasonable level of performance for a vehicle of this size and purpose. The inclusion of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) demonstrates an effort to meet Euro 4 emission standards, reducing particulate matter emissions.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Movano B is a traditional, body-on-frame minivan design, prioritizing practicality and load-carrying capacity. It features a five-door configuration and can accommodate between three and nine passengers, depending on the specific configuration. The L1H2 variant offers a substantial cargo volume of 8000 liters (282.52 cubic feet), making it suitable for transporting large items. Key features include a robust chassis, hydraulic power steering, and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for enhanced safety. The van’s dimensions – 5048 mm (198.74 in) in length, 2070 mm (81.5 in) in width, and 2500 mm (98.43 in) in height – provide ample space for both cargo and passengers. The relatively high roofline of the H2 variant allows for standing room inside the cargo area. The Movano B’s design is functional rather than aesthetically driven, focusing on maximizing usability and durability for commercial applications.
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Movano |
| Generation | Movano B |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 CDTI (146 Hp) DPF L1H2 |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 3-9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 146 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm / 258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M9T 680 |
| Engine displacement | 2298 cm3 / 140.23 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm / 3.35 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 101.3 mm / 3.99 in. |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l / 8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1800-1816 kg / 3968.32 – 4003.59 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 3300 kg / 7275.25 lbs. |
| Max load | 1484-1500 kg / 3271.66 – 3306.93 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 8000 l / 282.52 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l / 21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg / 5511.56 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg / 1653.47 lbs. |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 5048 mm / 198.74 in. |
| Width | 2070 mm / 81.5 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2470 mm / 97.24 in. |
| Height | 2500 mm / 98.43 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3182 mm / 125.28 in. |
| Front track | 1750 mm / 68.9 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1730 mm / 68.11 in. |
| Front overhang | 842 mm / 33.15 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1024 mm / 40.31 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 169-208 mm / 6.65 – 8.19 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m / 41.01 ft. |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specs | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16; 225/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |

