SUMMARY Bedford has taken a hard look at the negative
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points of the Astra Van and answered them with the Astramax. It has the same stylish interior and comfortable ride, but with more payload and a nuich bigger body.
Its 1.6-litre diesel engine may not be as economical as the Escort 55's, but the Astramax 560L1) does offer a bigger load volume and cargo. lfjourney times are important, however, its rather sedate performance when laden must be considered and balanced against :m less fuel-efficient, hut more powerful petrol van.
Its weakest point compared with other diesel vans is clearly its hefty 0,777 price tag 018 more than the Escort 551), and a significant C1,612 more than the highly competitive Citron diesel Visa van.
Purchase price, however, is just one factor in the cost or ownership equation. With its comprehensive line-up of operator services, including various lease, purchase, rental and insurance schemes and its fixed cost maintenance package, Bedford is clearly out to woo as many van buyers as it can.