Well priced when new and consequently good value as a secondhand van purchase, the 2017 Vauxhall Vivaro is a popular choice among van-driving other professionals. Following a major redesign in 2014, the Vivaro benefits from a decently designed interior (although the quality of the materials could be better) and a broad choice of body styles. Its turbocharged diesel engines are also impressively economical, although they do feel a bit strained under a full payload. Talking of which, more modern rivals do offer a better payload, although the Vivaro’s cargo area accessibility is beyond reproach.

Strengths:

Wide choice of sizes and layouts
Refined and economical turbodiesel engines
Enjoyable to drive

Weaknesses:

Low-quality cabin plastics
Diesels need to be worked hard when the van is fully loaded
Payload is nothing special

Is the 2017 Vauxhall Vivaro better than the 2017 Ford Transit Custom?

The Vauxhall Viviaro is good value and offers refined and economical diesel engines, but the Ford Transit equivalent is better to drive and offers a higher-quality interior – although the 2017 model is a little short on in-cabin storage.