The Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab LWB (Long Wheelbase) is a commercial vehicle produced from 2006 to 2014, representing a significant facelift of the first-generation Vivaro. This model, powered by a 2.0 CDTI 16V engine producing 90 horsepower, served as a popular choice in the European market for businesses and families requiring a versatile and spacious van. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the Vivaro provides insight into the European light commercial vehicle segment and the increasing demand for van-based passenger transport.
Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab LWB: A European Workhorse
The Vivaro was a product of a joint venture between Renault, Opel (Vauxhall’s parent company), and Nissan. This collaboration allowed each brand to benefit from shared development costs and a common platform, resulting in vehicles like the Renault Trafic and Nissan Primastar, which were essentially rebadged versions of the Vivaro. The Doublecab LWB configuration specifically catered to those needing both cargo space and passenger capacity, making it suitable for tradespeople, shuttle services, and larger families. The 2006 facelift brought cosmetic updates and, crucially, the introduction of diesel particulate filters (DPF) to meet increasingly stringent European emission standards.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab LWB (facelift 2006) lies a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder CDTI (Common-rail Direct Injection) diesel engine. This engine, designated M9R 780, produces 90 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 240 Newton-meters (177 lb-ft) of torque at 1500 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power delivery is managed through a six-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. While not designed for outright speed, the engine provides adequate power for carrying loads and navigating various terrains. Fuel economy is rated at 7.3 liters per 100 kilometers (32.2 US mpg) on a combined cycle, with urban and extra-urban figures of 8.5 l/100km (27.7 US mpg) and 6.6 l/100km (35.6 US mpg) respectively. CO2 emissions are rated at 195 g/km, placing it within Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Vivaro Doublecab LWB is a five-door minivan characterized by its practical and functional design. The “Doublecab” designation indicates the presence of two rows of seating, offering space for up to five occupants. The “LWB” signifies the extended wheelbase, providing a larger cargo area behind the rear seats. The vehicle’s body is constructed on a ladder-frame chassis, providing durability and load-carrying capability. Key features include a spacious interior, sliding side doors for easy access, and a rear liftgate for cargo loading. Safety features, typical for a vehicle of this era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The interior is designed with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials and a functional layout. The large cargo area, with a minimum capacity of 4191 liters (148 cubic feet), is a defining characteristic of the Vivaro Doublecab LWB.
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Vivaro |
| Generation | Vivaro Doublecab LWB (facelift 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI 16V (90 Hp) DPF |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 195 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 20.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M9R 780 |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Engine systems | Particulate filter |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 120 kg (264.55 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 4191 l (148 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 5182 mm (204.02 in.) |
| Height | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3498 mm (137.72 in.) |
| Front overhang | 833 mm (32.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 851 mm (33.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.17 m (43.21 ft.) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, longitudinal arms with transverse torsion shafts |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 305 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 280 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 |
The Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab LWB (facelift 2006) 2.0 CDTI 16V (90 Hp) DPF represents a practical and versatile solution for commercial and family transport needs in Europe. Its robust construction, efficient diesel engine, and spacious interior made it a popular choice in its segment. While not available in the US market, it exemplifies the European preference for van-based vehicles and the ongoing development of diesel technology to meet emission regulations.
