The Vauxhall Movano B 2.3 CDTI (146 Hp) DPF L2H2 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, offering increased practicality and efficiency. While not directly sold in the United States, the Movano – and its rebadged counterparts like the Renault Master and Nissan Interstar – is a popular choice in Europe for commercial applications, serving as a workhorse for businesses requiring substantial cargo capacity. The “L2H2” designation refers to the van’s body length and roof height, indicating a medium-length wheelbase and a high roof, optimizing interior space for various commercial needs.
Vauxhall Movano B: Overview and Market Position
The Movano B was designed to compete in the large van segment, directly challenging models like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit, and Volkswagen Crafter. Its primary focus was on providing a robust and reliable platform for commercial operators. Vauxhall positioned the Movano as a versatile vehicle capable of handling a wide range of tasks, from delivery services to mobile workshops. The 2.3 CDTI engine, equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, was a key component of the Movano B’s appeal, balancing performance with environmental considerations. The van’s spacious interior and configurable layout made it adaptable to diverse business requirements.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Vauxhall Movano B 2.3 CDTI (146 Hp) DPF L2H2 is a 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, identified by the code 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 turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power per liter is rated at 63.5 hp/l. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. The weight-to-power ratio is 12.7 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.3 kg/Nm. While not designed for outright speed, the engine provides sufficient power for hauling heavy loads and maintaining reasonable speeds on highways. The inclusion of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) was crucial for meeting the increasingly stringent Euro 4 emission regulations prevalent in Europe at the time.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Movano B is a traditional, body-on-frame minivan design, prioritizing practicality and durability. It features a five-door configuration and can accommodate between three and nine passengers, depending on the seating arrangement. The L2H2 variant boasts a substantial cargo volume of 10,800 liters (381.4 cubic feet), making it ideal for transporting large items. The van’s dimensions are considerable, with a length of 5548 mm (218.43 in), a width of 2070 mm (81.5 in), and a height of 2500 mm (98.43 in). The wheelbase measures 3682 mm (144.96 in).
Safety features, while not as advanced as in modern vehicles, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The hydraulic power steering provides reasonable maneuverability, and the suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and ventilated discs on all four wheels for braking. The Movano B’s design focused on maximizing interior space and load-carrying capacity, with a relatively simple and functional interior layout. The van’s robust construction and durable components were intended to withstand the rigors of commercial use. The permitted trailer load with brakes is 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs), and without brakes, it’s 750 kg (1653.47 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Movano |
| Generation | Movano B |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 CDTI (146 Hp) DPF L2H2 |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 3-9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| 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 |
| Kerb Weight | 1857-1898 kg / 4093.98 – 4184.37 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 3300 kg / 7275.25 lbs. |
| Max load | 1402-1443 kg / 3090.88 – 3181.27 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 10800 l / 381.4 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. |
| Length | 5548 mm / 218.43 in. |
| Width | 2070 mm / 81.5 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2470 mm / 97.24 in. |
| Height | 2500 mm / 98.43 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3682 mm / 144.96 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) | 13.6 m / 44.62 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 |
