The Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab SWB (facelift 2006) 2.5 CDTI 16V (146 Hp) DPF is a commercial vehicle marketed primarily in Europe. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications provides insight into the European light commercial vehicle market. Introduced as part of the first-generation Vivaro range, this model caters to businesses and individuals needing a versatile van with passenger capacity. The “Doublecab” designation indicates a second row of seats, increasing its utility beyond simple cargo transport. The SWB (Short Wheelbase) configuration offers enhanced maneuverability, making it suitable for urban environments. The 2006 facelift brought cosmetic and mechanical updates to the original Vivaro, improving its appeal and efficiency.
Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab SWB: A European Workhorse
The Vauxhall Vivaro, and its sister vehicles – the Renault Trafic and Nissan Primastar – were the result of a joint venture between Renault and Nissan. This collaboration allowed each brand to offer a competitive van without the full development costs. The Vivaro filled a crucial gap in Vauxhall’s lineup, providing a medium-sized van option that bridged the gap between smaller car-derived vans and larger, full-size commercial vehicles. The Doublecab variant specifically targeted tradespeople and businesses requiring both cargo space and the ability to transport a small crew. The inclusion of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) in the 2.5 CDTI engine reflects increasing European emissions regulations during this period.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2006 Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab SWB is a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder CDTI (Common-rail Direct Injection Turbo) diesel engine. This engine produces 146 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 320 Newton-meters (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1500 rpm. The engine’s turbocharger and intercooler contribute to its relatively strong performance for a commercial vehicle. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and driver control. The weight-to-power ratio of 12.7 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 5.8 kg/Nm indicate a reasonable level of performance considering the van’s intended purpose. Fuel economy figures are rated at 8.7 liters per 100 kilometers (27 US mpg) combined, with 10.4 l/100km (22.6 US mpg) in urban settings and 7.6 l/100km (30.9 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. CO2 emissions are rated at 229 g/km.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab SWB is a five-door minivan designed for practicality and functionality. Its body style prioritizes cargo volume and ease of access. The Doublecab configuration provides seating for five occupants, with a second row of seats behind the driver and front passenger. The SWB (Short Wheelbase) version measures 4782 mm (188.27 in.) in length, making it relatively easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The vehicle’s height is 1960 mm (77.17 in.), and its wheelbase is 3098 mm (121.97 in.). The interior is typically utilitarian, focusing on durability and ease of cleaning. Safety features for the 2006 model year include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which was becoming increasingly standard on commercial vehicles in Europe. The van offers a substantial cargo capacity of 3285 liters (116.01 cu. ft.) with the rear seats in place. The fuel tank capacity is 90 liters (23.78 US gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Vivaro |
| Generation | Vivaro Doublecab SWB (facelift 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 CDTI 16V (146 Hp) DPF |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 229 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 146 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G9U 630 |
| Engine displacement | 2464 cm3 (150.36 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 | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1852 kg (4082.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2985 kg (6580.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1133 kg (2497.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 3285 l (116.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4782 mm (188.27 in.) |
| Height | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3098 mm (121.97 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.84 m (38.85 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | 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 | Disc, 580 mm |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 |
The Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab SWB (facelift 2006) 2.5 CDTI 16V (146 Hp) DPF represents a practical and versatile solution for businesses and individuals needing a combination of passenger and cargo capacity. Its robust diesel engine, functional design, and relatively compact size made it a popular choice in the European light commercial vehicle market.
