Vauxhall Combo Exposed: Hidden Features And Specs Worth Knowing
The Vauxhall Combo is a compact commercial van offering a maximum payload of 1,000kg, load volume up to 4.4m³, and powertrain options including a 1.5-litre diesel engine with 100PS or 130PS, plus a fully electric variant with 205 miles WLTP range from its 50kWh battery.
Overview
The Vauxhall Combo, manufactured at the Ellesmere Port plant in Britain-the UK's first site dedicated solely to electric vehicles-delivers practicality for businesses needing versatile load-carrying. Available in Prime and Pro trims since its reveal on November 10, 2023, it comes in two lengths with two or three front seats, or as a five-seat Crew Cab. Prices start at £20,850 excluding VAT for diesel models and £28,550 for the electric version, a £4,450 saving over its predecessor.
Key Specifications
The Combo's diesel engines include a 1.5-litre unit producing 100PS or 130PS, paired with five- or six-speed manuals, or an eight-speed automatic on the 130PS variant. The electric model features a 100kW (136PS) motor with 270Nm torque, reaching 81mph top speed. Fuel efficiency on the 100PS diesel hits up to 52.3mpg with CO2 emissions from 140g/km.
- Maximum payload: 1,000kg across variants.
- Load volume: 3.8m³ to 4.4m³, extendable to 3.44m with FlexCargo Pack.
- Wheelbases: Standard and long options for tailored needs.
- Towing capacity: Up to 1,050kg braked on select models.
- Ground clearance: Enhanced on 4x4 versions for off-road stability.
Exterior Features
The Combo sports Vauxhall's bold Vizor front end with first-in-class lighting technology for superior night visibility. It includes 16-inch steel wheels with covers, sliding side doors for easy access, and low loading height. The rugged design pairs with a sporty finish, making it suitable for urban and construction sites.
| Dimension | Standard Wheelbase | Long Wheelbase |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,403mm | 4,753mm |
| Payload | 984kg | 953kg |
| Load Length | 1,817mm | 2,167mm |
| Gross Vehicle Weight | 2,800kg | 2,940kg |
These measurements, updated for the 2026 model year, ensure the long wheelbase handles bulkier cargo effectively.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, an 8-inch colour touchscreen dominates the modern cockpit, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. The FlexCargo Pack with bench seat and load-through hatch maximises versatility, while electric parkbrake adds convenience. Crew Van options provide space for five, ideal for teams on the move.
- Select Prime trim for essentials like multimedia nav.
- Upgrade to Pro for advanced lighting and Vauxhall Connect.
- Opt for Construction Pack with IntelliGrip for traction in tough conditions.
- Choose Crew Cab for passenger capacity up to five.
- Add 4x4 for enhanced ground clearance and stability.
"The new Combo Electric offers an extended range of up to 205 miles, a 17% increase over the current model." - Vauxhall reveal, November 10, 2023.
Safety Systems
Safety features include driver and passenger airbags, side-impact bags in Crew Vans, and an energy-absorbing steering column that collapses on frontal impact. Hill-start Assist prevents rollback on slopes, while automatics add a safety pack with Lane Keep Assist, Speed Sign Recognition, and Automatic Emergency Braking. Vauxhall Connect provides 24/7 e-Call and b-Call for roadside help.
Powertrain Options
Diesel choices deliver 99bhp (260Nm) or 128bhp (300Nm), with the base unit optimising economy at 52.3mpg. The electric variant's 50kWh battery supports Eco, Normal, and Power modes, powered by a rear-mounted motor. IntelliGrip simulates 4x4 performance without added weight.
| Powertrain | Power/Torque | Range/Economy | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 Diesel 100PS | 100PS/260Nm | 52.3mpg | 164km/h |
| 1.5 Diesel 130PS | 130PS/300Nm | 48.7mpg | 170km/h |
| Electric 136PS | 136PS/270Nm | 205 miles WLTP | 130km/h |
Technology and Connectivity
The infotainment system projects sat-nav and apps via wireless connectivity, with Vauxhall Connect enabling remote diagnostics and live updates. Driving modes optimise efficiency, and the touchscreen centralises controls for minimal distraction. Optional packs add premium touches like enhanced audio.
Practicality for Business
With twin rear doors and optional tailgate, the Combo ensures easy loading in tight spaces. The Crew Van seats five comfortably, blending passenger and cargo needs. Its 2026 updates refine dimensions for better urban manoeuvrability.
- Low load floor height reduces strain during manual handling.
- Sliding doors on both sides facilitate side-loading.
- IntelliGrip modes: Standard, Snow, Sand, Mud for all-weather grip.
- 4x4 variant raises clearance for rough terrain.
- Payload stats hold across electric and diesel.
Performance Data
Real-world tests show the diesel achieving 48-52mpg in mixed cycles, per 2025 reviews. Electric efficiency peaks in Eco mode at 3.8 miles/kWh urban. Torque delivery-270Nm instant in EV-excels for overtakes.
"Combo 4x4 keeps your business moving-whatever the conditions." - Vauxhall features overview.
Trim Comparisons
| Feature | Prime | Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen | 8-inch standard | With nav |
| Safety Pack | Basic | Full AEB/LKA |
| Wheels | 16-inch steel | Alloy options |
| Connect | Basic telematics | Advanced e-Call |
Prime suits budget fleets, while Pro trim targets premium operators.
Historical Context
Launched in 1993 as Opel's panel van, the Combo evolved through generations, with Vauxhall adopting it for UK markets. The current model, revealed in 2023, marks a shift to electric production at Ellesmere Port since early 2024. Sales began late 2023, with 2026 models refining payloads to 984kg max.
In summary, the Vauxhall Combo blends capacity, tech, and efficiency for small businesses, with electric options accelerating adoption amid net-zero goals.
Key concerns and solutions for Vauxhall Combo Exposed Hidden Features And Specs Worth Knowing
What is the payload capacity of the Vauxhall Combo?
The Vauxhall Combo offers a maximum payload of 1,000kg, with specific variants like the standard wheelbase at 984kg and long wheelbase at 953kg.
What are the engine options available?
Options include 1.5-litre diesel engines with 100PS or 130PS outputs, plus a 136PS electric motor; transmissions range from five-speed manual to eight-speed automatic.
Is there an electric version of the Combo?
Yes, the Combo Electric provides 205 miles WLTP range from a 50kWh battery, built in Britain with 136PS and three driving modes.
How does the load space compare to competitors?
At up to 4.4m³, the Combo's load volume exceeds many compact rivals, with FlexCargo extending usable length to 3.44m for bulky items.
What safety features does it include?
Standard aids encompass airbags, Hill-start Assist, and energy-absorbing structures; Pro models add advanced driver assistance like AEB and lane-keeping.
What is the towing capacity?
Braked towing reaches 1,000-1,050kg depending on variant, supporting trailers for expanded utility.
Are there crew van options?
Yes, the five-seat Crew Cab adds rear benches while retaining up to 3.8m³ loadspace.
How efficient is the electric Combo?
It achieves 205 miles WLTP combined, with real-world urban figures often exceeding 220 miles in Eco mode.