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Ian Tonkin
Page 37
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It's all about swings and roundabouts with the Bipper. What it lacks in outright shove it makes up for in economy, and this is one LCV that won't break the bank. We achieved an average of 44.6mpg during our week-long test, including a hard day's testing and the obligatory stopstart commutes, but ease off the gas and this is likely to improve.
Speaking of which, the 2-Tronic automated manual gearbox is ideally suited to the Sipper's urban persona. Relaxed, smooth gearchanges make tackling the congested city streets that bit easier and wilt no doubt be popular with drivers because it reduces fatigue.
The entire package is technically sound, with robust build (waft decent dynamics and a comfy interior. The turbo-diesel engine, while economical and clean, could do with an extra 15-20hp to cope with the heavier loads, but it just about gets away with it.
Overall, the Bip per is a well-executed and packaged compact van, with the 2-Tronic gearbox an excellent bet for those operating in a fast-paced city.