The Opel Vivaro A, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2006, represents a significant entry in the mid-size van segment, primarily aimed at the European commercial and passenger vehicle markets. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications and role is crucial for appreciating the evolution of light commercial vehicles. The 2.0 Ecotec variant, producing 117 horsepower, was a popular choice, balancing fuel efficiency with adequate performance for its intended applications. This generation of the Vivaro, produced from 2006 to 2011, served as a versatile platform for both cargo transport and multi-passenger configurations.
Opel Vivaro A (Facelift 2006): A Detailed Overview
The Vivaro A was the result of a collaborative effort between Opel (and its sister brands Vauxhall and Fiat) and Renault. This partnership allowed for shared development costs and a broader market reach. The Vivaro, along with its Renault Trafic and Nissan Primastar counterparts, offered a compelling alternative to established players like the Volkswagen Transporter and Mercedes-Benz Vito. The 2006 facelift brought cosmetic updates and refinements to the original design, enhancing its appeal and addressing initial feedback. The van was designed to cater to businesses and families needing a practical, spacious, and reliable vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The 2.0 Ecotec engine powering this version of the Vivaro is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. It delivers 117 horsepower at 4700 rpm and 186 Nm (137.19 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3750 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides sufficient power for everyday driving and moderate loads. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 16.4 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 10.3 kg/Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 14.6 seconds, and 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 13.9 seconds. The top speed is limited to 160 km/h (99.42 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg) combined, with 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg) in urban settings and 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards, reflecting a commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Design & Features
The Opel Vivaro A (facelift 2006) is a four-door minivan designed to accommodate up to nine passengers. Its body style prioritizes practicality and space utilization. The van’s dimensions are substantial, measuring 4782 mm (188.27 in.) in length, 1904 mm (74.96 in.) in width, and 1982 mm (78.03 in.) in height. The wheelbase is 3098 mm (121.97 in.). These dimensions translate into a generous interior volume, with a minimum trunk capacity of 1200 liters (42.38 cu. ft.) expanding to a maximum of 3100 liters (109.48 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. The kerb weight is 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 2760 kg (6084.76 lbs) and a maximum load capacity of 840 kg (1851.88 lbs). Standard safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated front disc brakes, with disc brakes on the rear axle. The steering system utilizes a rack and pinion setup for precise control. The vehicle rides on 16-inch wheels with 195/65 R16 tires.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vivaro |
| Generation | Vivaro A (facelift 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 Ecotec (117 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2006 |
| End of production | August, 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 9 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 117 Hp @ 4700 rpm |
| Torque | 186 Nm @ 3750 rpm (137.19 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F4R 820 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2760 kg (6084.76 lbs) |
| Max load | 840 kg (1851.88 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1200 l (42.38 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3100 l (109.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4782 mm (188.27 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2232 mm (87.87 in.) |
| Height | 1982 mm (78.03 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3098 mm (121.97 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Front overhang | 833 mm (32.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 851 mm (33.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 164 mm (6.46 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 195/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
In conclusion, the Opel Vivaro A (facelift 2006) 2.0 Ecotec (117 Hp) was a practical and versatile van that served a vital role in the European commercial and passenger vehicle landscape. Its blend of space, efficiency, and reliability made it a popular choice for businesses and families alike. While not available in the US market, its design and engineering represent a significant chapter in the evolution of light commercial vehicles.
