The Vauxhall Vivaro has been a familiar sight on British roads for more than two decades. As a medium-sized van produced within the Stellantis group, it shares its EMP2 platform with the Peugeot Expert, Citroën Dispatch, and Toyota Proace. Yet the Vivaro has built its own reputation among builders, fleet operators, and family businesses. Today it is offered with diesel and electric powertrains, in panel van, crew cab, double cab, and passenger-carrying configurations.
With the shift toward zero-emission vehicles accelerating, the Vivaro Electric has become a contender for urban deliveries and regional routes. Diesel versions continue to serve high-mileage users who rely on range and refuelling speed. This guide covers dimensions, engine options, body styles, and buying considerations for anyone researching the Vauxhall Vivaro.
What are the Vauxhall Vivaro dimensions and load space?
1.5L diesel (100/120 hp), 2.0L diesel (145/180 hp), electric (100 kW / 136 hp)
Length 4.95 m – 5.33 m, load volume 5.3 – 6.6 m³
Panel van, double cab, crew cab, 9-seater, camper conversions
From roughly £28,000 (new diesel) to £45,000+ (electric, higher specification)
- The Vauxhall Vivaro is one of the best-selling medium vans in the UK, offered with a choice of diesel and full electric powertrains.
- The electric Vivaro (Vivaro‑e) quotes a WLTP range of up to 205 miles from the 75 kWh battery, making it suitable for urban and regional work.
- For passenger transport, the 9‑seater version (Vivaro Life) is popular with taxi operators and family-run businesses.
- Camper conversions are widely available, with many professional converters offering floorplans based on the Vivaro panel van.
- Automatic transmission is available on selected diesel models (8‑speed auto) and is standard on the electric variant.
- Payload capacity is a noted strength, with electric panel vans capable of carrying more than 1,000 kg depending on specification.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Vauxhall (Stellantis group) |
| Platform | EMP2 (shared with Peugeot Expert, Citroën Dispatch, Toyota Proace) |
| Production | 2001 – present (current generation: 2019 onwards) |
| Engines | 1.5L diesel, 2.0L diesel, 100 kW electric |
| Transmission | 6‑speed manual, 8‑speed automatic, single‑speed (electric) |
| Max payload | 1,000 – 1,400 kg (depending on variant) |
| Towing capacity | Up to 2,500 kg braked (diesel models) |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60,000 miles (standard), 8 years / 100,000 miles for battery |
The electric van is available in two lengths: L1 at 4,959 mm and L2 at 5,309 mm, with a height of 1,905 mm in UK market specifications, according to Ezoomed. For cargo, published figures include up to 6.1 m³ load volume on the electric panel van, a maximum load width of 1,636 mm, a load-bay height of 1,397 mm, and load lengths of 2,512 mm on standard models or 2,862 mm on longer variants, as reported by EV Powered. The crew or double-cab layout reduces load length to around 2,365 mm because of the second row of seats.
Payload is a key strength. Sources cite figures of 1,001 kg, 1,002 kg, and up to 1,226 kg depending on body style and equipment, with crew-cab versions carrying slightly less. Exact payload depends heavily on the chosen variant. For a side-by-side comparison with other medium vans, see our Compare Vauxhall Vivaro with other vans page.
Which Vauxhall Vivaro engine and transmission options are available?
Is the Vauxhall Vivaro available as an electric van?
Yes. The Vivaro Electric, often called the Vivaro‑e, uses a 100 kW (approximately 134–136 hp) motor with around 260 Nm of torque. Vauxhall quotes up to 143 miles from the 50 kWh battery and up to 205 miles from the 75 kWh battery under WLTP testing. Other reviews report official figures in the 194–230 mile band for the updated 75 kWh model, depending on specification and test-cycle timing. A Stellantis press release confirms the 100 kW rapid-charge capability, with fast charging to 80 per cent taking about 30 minutes for the smaller battery and 45 minutes for the larger battery.
Independent reviews suggest real-world range is typically lower than the official figure. One test recorded 2.4 miles/kWh in mixed driving with cargo, translating to roughly 163 miles. Another review estimates around 160 miles in mixed use and up to 200 miles in city driving.
Does the Vauxhall Vivaro come with an automatic gearbox?
The Vivaro range does include automatic options. The electric version is inherently single-speed, so it drives like an automatic. On diesel models, an 8‑speed automatic transmission is available, although the exact pairing with specific engines and trims varies. Buyers should confirm availability with a dealer for the specific configuration they are considering.
What are the diesel engine options for the Vauxhall Vivaro?
The Vivaro is widely reviewed as a light commercial vehicle with diesel variants available on the UK market. The combustion-engined counterpart is built on the same production line as the electric model, according to Stellantis. Typical diesel offerings in this segment include 1.5‑litre and 2.0‑litre units with power outputs in the 100–180 hp range. For the latest diesel engine details, buyers should consult Vauxhall directly or check the official Vivaro page.
Can the Vauxhall Vivaro be used as a 9-seater or camper?
Is there a Vauxhall Vivaro 9-seater version?
Yes. The passenger-oriented variant is called the Vauxhall Vivaro Life. It is marketed with a 75 kWh battery and a claimed range of up to 214–216 miles, depending on the source and model year. The Vivaro Life is designed for multi-seat transport rather than cargo, making it a practical choice for taxi operators and family businesses. A double-cab version further confirms that the platform supports seating configurations that reduce load area in favour of passenger capacity.
Can the Vauxhall Vivaro be converted into a campervan?
The Vivaro is a common base vehicle for camper conversions. The long-wheelbase form (L2, 5,309 mm) provides more usable interior space than the L1 version. The cargo bay has a height of 1,397 mm and a width of 1,636 mm, which suits many van-life layouts, but the interior is not tall enough for full standing room. Most conversions therefore use a raised roof or pop-top if standing height is required.
Camper fit-out weight can quickly consume available payload capacity. The best-case payload for an electric panel van is around 1,226 kg, but seat-rich variants and additional conversion equipment will reduce that figure significantly. Buyers planning a camper conversion should calculate the expected weight of furnishings, batteries, and water tanks against the specific variant’s payload limit.
Vauxhall does not offer a factory camper, but many approved and independent converters provide ready-to-drive camper conversions based on the Vivaro panel van. Costs vary widely by converter and specification, and no single official price exists.
Where can I find a Vauxhall Vivaro for sale?
New Vivaro vans can be ordered through Vauxhall dealerships or via the official Vauxhall Vivaro configurator, which allows buyers to select trim, powertrain, and optional equipment. The configurator provides official pricing, though the list price for a new diesel Vivaro starts at around £28,000, while higher-spec electric versions can exceed £45,000 before any government grants or business incentives.
For used examples, major listing platforms such as Autotrader carry a large inventory of Vivaro vans across all generations, body styles, and price points. Buyers can filter by fuel type, transmission, mileage, and region. Given that exact colour and trim combinations may vary by dealer stock, it is advisable to check multiple listings.
Payload, towing capacity, and load volume differ significantly between diesel and electric models, as well as between panel van, crew cab, and passenger versions. Always confirm the precise figures for the exact variant you are considering rather than relying on range-wide averages.
What is the history of the Vauxhall Vivaro?
- 2001 – First-generation Vivaro launched, developed as a joint venture with Renault Trafic and Nissan Primastar.
- 2014 – Second-generation model introduced with a more modern design and Euro 6 diesel engines.
- 2019 – Third generation launched, built on the EMP2 platform shared with Peugeot Expert, Citroën Dispatch, and Toyota Proace, bringing improved efficiency and driving dynamics.
- 2020 – Vivaro‑e electric version launched with a 50 kWh battery offering a WLTP range of up to 143 miles.
- 2021 – Updated 75 kWh battery introduced, raising the WLTP range to up to 205 miles and enabling 100 kW DC fast charging.
- 2023 – Minor facelift with new infotainment system and updated driver assistance features.
What is confirmed and what remains uncertain about the Vauxhall Vivaro?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Official dimensions and load volumes are published by Vauxhall. | Exact camper conversion costs vary by converter and specification; no single official price exists. |
| Diesel and electric drivetrains are both available in the UK market. | Real-world electric range may differ from WLTP figures depending on load, temperature, and driving style. |
| The 9‑seater version (Vivaro Life) is a factory option. | Availability of specific colour and trim combinations may vary by dealer stock. |
| Automatic transmission is available on 2.0L diesel and electric models. | Future model updates beyond 2025 are not yet confirmed by Vauxhall. |
How does the Vauxhall Vivaro fit into the van market?
The Vivaro competes directly with the Ford Transit Custom, Mercedes Vito, and Volkswagen Transporter. It offers a blend of load capacity, driving comfort, and total cost of ownership that has made it a consistent choice in the medium-van segment. The electric Vivaro‑e goes up against the Ford E‑Transit Custom and Mercedes e‑Vito, while diesel versions remain popular for long-distance and high-mileage users. For passenger transport, the 9‑seater Vivaro Life is a key alternative to larger vehicles such as the VW Caravelle or Mercedes V‑Class, offering a lower entry price and more compact dimensions. Buyers can also Compare Vauxhall Vivaro with other vans to see how it stacks up against rivals.
What do reviewers and experts say about the Vauxhall Vivaro?
“Introducing Vivaro van, your ultimate commercial vehicle for every job!”
– Vauxhall official website
“Vauxhall Vivaro – born and bred in the UK, this medium van is favoured by the British builder.”
– Vanarama review
“The Vivaro is a front‑wheel‑drive (FWD) van only, and engine choice is divided between the exceptionally quiet 1.5‑litre and the more muscle 2.0‑litre diesel.”
– LoadsofVans.com
Reviewers generally describe the Vivaro Electric as a practical medium van with strong payload and usable range for urban and regional work. What Car? notes that real-world driving may be closer to 160 miles in mixed use, while the official WLTP figure remains higher. The diesel variants are praised for their refinement and driving comfort, particularly the 2.0‑litre unit paired with the 8‑speed automatic.
Is the Vauxhall Vivaro the right van for your needs?
The Vauxhall Vivaro suits a broad range of users, from tradespeople needing a dependable panel van to businesses requiring a 9‑seater for passenger transport. The electric version offers competitive range and strong payload for zero-emission zones, while diesel models continue to serve those who cover higher mileages or need maximum towing capacity. Buyers should weigh their typical load, route, and budget against the specific variant’s dimensions, payload, and range figures. For a side-by-side comparison with other medium vans, see our Compare Vauxhall Vivaro with other vans page.
Frequently asked questions about the Vauxhall Vivaro
Is the Vauxhall Vivaro reliable?
The Vivaro generally scores well in reliability surveys, especially the diesel models. Early issues with the first generation have been addressed in newer models.
What is the Vauxhall Vivaro 9-seater called?
The 9‑seater passenger version is officially called the Vauxhall Vivaro Life.
Can I buy a Vauxhall Vivaro camper directly from Vauxhall?
No, Vauxhall does not offer a factory camper, but many approved converters provide ready-to-drive camper conversions.
How much does a Vauxhall Vivaro electric cost?
Prices for the Vivaro‑e start around £35,000 before any government grants or business incentives.
What is the towing capacity of a Vauxhall Vivaro?
Diesel models can tow up to 2,500 kg braked. Electric models have a lower towing capacity of up to 1,000 kg.
What is the real-world range of the Vivaro Electric?
Independent reviews report around 160 miles in mixed driving and up to 200 miles in city use, compared to the WLTP figure of up to 205 miles.
How long does it take to charge the Vivaro Electric?
With a 100 kW rapid charger, the 50 kWh battery reaches 80 per cent in about 30 minutes, and the 75 kWh battery in about 45 minutes.
What is the load volume of the Vauxhall Vivaro?
The electric panel van offers up to 6.1 m³ of load space, with load lengths of 2,512 mm (standard) or 2,862 mm (long wheelbase).
Oliver Reeves leads fact-checking, source verification and editorial standards at RegionalReport.co.uk.