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 115 horsepower, served as a popular choice in the European market for businesses and families needing 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: An Overview
The Vivaro, developed in collaboration with Renault and Nissan (sharing platforms with the Renault Trafic and Nissan Primastar), was Vauxhall’s entry into the mid-size van market. The Doublecab LWB configuration specifically caters to those requiring both cargo space and passenger seating, 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. This version of the Vivaro aimed to balance practicality, efficiency, and environmental responsibility within the commercial vehicle class.
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 115 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 290 Nm (213.89 lb-ft) of torque at 1600 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power per liter is rated at 57.6 hp/l. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle and delivers power to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy figures are respectable for a vehicle of its size, achieving approximately 32.2 US mpg (38.7 UK mpg) on a combined cycle, with 27.7 US mpg in urban conditions and 35.6 US mpg on the extra-urban cycle. The weight-to-power ratio is 16 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.3 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Vivaro Doublecab LWB is a five-door minivan with a body-on-frame construction. Its long wheelbase provides a substantial cargo area even with the second row of seats in place. The Doublecab configuration offers seating for five occupants, with the rear seats typically featuring a folding or removable design to maximize cargo capacity. The vehicle’s exterior styling is functional and utilitarian, typical of commercial vehicles. The 2006 facelift included minor cosmetic changes to the front fascia and interior trim. Key features include a diesel particulate filter (DPF) for reduced emissions, hydraulic power steering, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and ventilated front disc brakes with solid rear discs. The vehicle’s dimensions are considerable, measuring 5182 mm (204.02 in) in length, 1960 mm (77.17 in) in height, and with a wheelbase of 3498 mm (137.72 in). Trunk space is a generous 4191 liters (148 cu. ft.) minimum.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Vivaro |
| Generation | Vivaro Doublecab LWB (facelift 2006) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI 16V (115 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) | 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 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 1600 rpm (213.89 lb.-ft. @ 1600 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2960 kg (6525.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1120 kg (2469.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 4191 l (148 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| 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 Architecture | 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, 280 mm |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 |
The Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab LWB (facelift 2006) 2.0 CDTI 16V (115 Hp) DPF represents a practical and versatile option within the European light commercial vehicle market. Its combination of passenger capacity, cargo space, and reasonable fuel efficiency made it a popular choice for a variety of applications. While not available in the US, it exemplifies the design and engineering principles prevalent in European vans of its era.
