The Vauxhall Movano SWB (facelift 2003) 3500 2.5 CDTI 16V (115 Hp) L1H2 is a light commercial vehicle produced by Vauxhall, the British arm of Stellantis. Introduced as part of the second-generation Movano range, this particular iteration – the short wheelbase, high roof variant – was primarily marketed in Europe as a versatile panel van and passenger carrier. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications and role within the European market provides insight into the demands for commercial vehicles during the early 2000s. The Movano competed with vehicles like the Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and Volkswagen Crafter, offering a balance of practicality, payload capacity, and running costs.
Vauxhall Movano SWB (facelift 2003): Overview
The Movano, in its various configurations, served as a crucial workhorse for businesses and tradespeople across Europe. The SWB (Short Wheelbase) L1H2 designation indicates a compact footprint relative to other Movano models, making it more maneuverable in urban environments. The facelift in 2003 brought minor cosmetic updates and refinements to the engine range, aiming to improve efficiency and reliability. This model offered seating for between three and nine occupants, depending on the configuration, making it suitable for both cargo transport and people-carrying duties.
Engine & Performance
Powering the Vauxhall Movano 3500 2.5 CDTI is a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated G9U 750 or G9U 754. This engine produces 115 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque at 1600 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel common rail fuel injection system and is turbocharged with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The engine’s 17.7:1 compression ratio is typical for direct injection diesel engines of this era. The front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout contributes to a relatively low kerb weight of 1837 kg (4049.89 lbs), resulting in a weight-to-power ratio of 16 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 6.3 kg/Nm. The vehicle is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, allowing for efficient cruising and optimized fuel consumption. The engine’s power per liter is 46.7 Hp/l.
Design & Features
The 2003 Vauxhall Movano SWB L1H2 is a five-door minivan with a boxy, utilitarian design typical of commercial vehicles. Its dimensions – 4899 mm (192.87 in) in length, 1990 mm (78.35 in) in width, and 2496 mm (98.27 in) in height – provide a substantial cargo area or passenger space. The short wheelbase of 3078 mm (121.18 in) aids maneuverability, while the high roof offers increased headroom and cargo capacity. Standard safety features for the time included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The interior is functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The vehicle’s design focused on maximizing interior space and load-carrying capability, making it a popular choice for businesses requiring a reliable and versatile van. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup, while the steering employs a rack and pinion system for precise control.
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Movano |
| Generation | Movano SWB (facelift 2003) |
| Type | 3500 2.5 CDTI 16V (115 Hp) L1H2 |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 3-9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 46.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 1600 rpm / 213.89 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G9U 750, G9U 754 |
| Engine displacement | 2463 cm3 / 150.3 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 17.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l / 8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt |
| Coolant | 10 l / 10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1837 kg / 4049.89 lbs |
| Max. weight | 3500 kg / 7716.18 lbs |
| Max load | 1663 kg / 3666.29 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l / 26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 4899 mm / 192.87 in |
| Width | 1990 mm / 78.35 in |
| Width including mirrors | 2359 mm / 92.87 in |
| Height | 2496 mm / 98.27 in |
| Wheelbase | 3078 mm / 121.18 in |
| Front overhang | 862 mm / 33.94 in |
| Rear overhang | 959 mm / 37.76 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm / 5.91 in |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.48 m / 40.94 ft |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Vauxhall Movano SWB (facelift 2003) 3500 2.5 CDTI 16V (115 Hp) L1H2 represents a practical and reliable commercial vehicle solution for businesses in Europe. Its combination of a capable diesel engine, versatile body configuration, and reasonable running costs made it a popular choice in its segment. While not a performance vehicle, its focus on functionality and durability ensured its success as a workhorse for a variety of applications.
