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LIGHTS SHINElvsaN

BRIGHTLY

Tipper Light 2006 shaped up as a contest between East and West. Would the forward control Asians beat the bonneted Westerners in their own backyard? The referees were Julian Milnes, Dave Young and Kevin Swallow

0 ver the past 18 months all the van manufacturers have developed new drivelines and revamped or replaced their chassis-cabs ahead of the 2007 Euro-4 deadline. The International Van of the Year committee, which presided over an all-European line-up, recently gave top honours to Ford for its latest incarnation of the Transit — but ignoring the Asian products would be irrational.

They have developed strong engines that combine with impressive payload potential to make them strong contenders. For Tipper Light 2006 we gathered 13 vehicles at Moreton C Cullimore's site near Cirencester..Glos, where the battle boiled down to European refinement and comfort vs Asian productivity.

The crewcabs were exclusively F.uropean.This growing sector of the light CV market sacrifices payload for flexibility; the right specification gives a truly multi-purpose vehiele,which is particularly popular with local councils and infrastructure contractors Most manufacturers now offer LWB chassis with one-stop-shop, dealer-sourced bodywork.These models generally combine good handling with torque-based engines powerful enough to tow small items of plant with a payload of around a tonne.

According to Vauxhall. feedback from numerous trade shows indicates that contrary to popular belief payload is important to prospective buyers of lightweight tippers. Small operators want a 1.5-tonne capacity in this vital sector below 3.5 tonnes where tachos.LGV licences and 0-licences are someone else's problem. It's not an easy compromise to achieve.

Many users don't buy crewcabs for additional people —they don't want seats in the back and some even ask for a bulkhead. What's required is a secure. enclosed space for kit, enabling their crews to carry dry/clean and wet/dirty materials on one vehicle. Manufacturer: Citroen

Model: Relay

Underestimate Citroen at your peril. The Ready-to-Run scheme for tne Reiay starts at E12,695. up 2700 from last year, but still represents as strong and competitive a deal as you are likely to find.

If you log onto the Citroen website (www.citroen.co.uk). the van conversions link for the tipper directs you to Tipmaster. The Tipmaster body. which features on so many vehicles in this group, Is a no-nonsense product with a two-bolt rear gate and easy-to-use wanderlead. The payload is a generous 1.200kg.

With front-wheel drive and 104hp on tap, the single-wheel rear axle handles all the additional weight. The Relay copes well on the open road; the cab, while not spacious, offers enough nooks for pens, paperwork and phone. The positioning of the handbrake by the driver's door takes getting used to, Out makes more space for a middle passenger.

The front end of the cab isn't as prominent as the Sprinter's so it doesn't feel like you've lost it out on the road at tight T-junctions or roundabouts. In fact the dash-mounted transmission makes the driving experience more like a Dispatch.

The floor has an acute slant from the bulkhead to the dashboard and the driver's right ankle is at a sharp angle on the accelerator. This was noticeable after the first journey but wasn't an issue thereafter.

For what is effectively an entry-level motor. the Relay did enough to convince us that the Sevel range is a viable option in this market. Manufacturer: Ford

del: Transit

'roily much fresh out the box, Ford's Transit is by far the most recent /eh icle in this group and let's not forget it has just been voted nternational Van of the Year.

Its forward engine layout makes room in the interior, which seats hree comfortably and offers decent cross-cab access. It also looks nodern, with a classy feel to the dash and decent plastics throughout.

What struck us most, however, was the high level of practicality. There are several large storage compartments, including one above he instrument binnacle that also houses a power socket; a central .%iloby has a flip-top that turns into a handy small table.

Getting comfortable is easy with plenty of adjustment on the Inver's seat, though the lack of an adjustable steering wheel does ;lightly detract from what is a decent driving position.

The Duratorq 2.4-litre engine delivers plenty of usable power but s slightly let down by a noticeable lack of refinementsurprising for ;uch a new vehicle. Engine noise intrudes into the cab once past 3,000rpm and it resonates harshly when pushed.

Attached to the Transit's chassis was a Zintec steel tipper body vith a five-stage ram. Its solid construction is in keeping with the iature of the Transit and it works smoothly. Driving, whether empty or Daded. is a relaxed affair thanks to the superb steering, which offers I decent amount of feedback. The chassis copes well in the corners ind remains unruffled on uneven surfaces.

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz

Model: Sprinter

There's no getting away from the fact that even though the Sprinter didn't walk away with International Van of the Year, this is one vehicle Ihat seems to hog the limelight. Maybe people are intrigued that the same company can build prestige cars and functional CVs; in any case, new drivers invariably come away impressed.

Style is certainly a factor in its appeal: the sleek, versatile and powerful Sprinter appeared at Tipper Light with the Tipmaster body which added 'ship-like' to its list of adjectives.

The long bonnet, relatively flat windscreen and almost upright steering wheel make driving the Sprinter feel like you are navigatinc a barge. But with all manufacturers going for a near-identical look you could argue that the streamlined chassis-cab can only be perfected once.

This doesn't detract from the fact that the Sprinter is a beauty to drive. The 2.1-litre diesel offers 109hp with 280Nm of torque on tap from 1,600-2,400rpm. That translates to power and pace with no small degree of longevity between gears, even when laden.

The comfortable cab with its sleek, dark interior throws down the gauntlet to every other manufacturer one downside is that its list price isn't the cheapest in its class.

The chassis is rear-wheel drive with a single-wheel axle and a sixspeed box as standard. The body was one we became familiar with at this event: Tipmaster's steel-floored/aluminium-sided tipper with it own underfloor tipping gear.

On the scales with a 75kg driver it offered a 1,150kg payload. Manufacturer: Peugeot

Model: Boxer

Although the new version of the Boxer has already been launched, he tipper version won't be hitting the streets for a little while yet. But things could be worse as the Peugeot's overall ability belies its years.

Granted, the interior looked dated, with its usedharsh plastics and basic dialsbut it is also easy to navigate, and the driving position gives a commanding view of the road ahead.

What helps the Boxer raise its game is the 2,8-litre HDi lump, providing plenty of grunt from low-down with useful urge continuing up through the mid-range. However, it does peter off noticeably as you reach the top end where noise and vibration make their presence felt.

Getting the best out of the engine entails using the notchy fivespeed box, which needs to be handled with patience as its gates aren't well defined and it is clunky in operation. This works against the engine's ability and can make urban work a little grating.

This is partly offset by the Boxer's chassis which, while not particularly compliant over bumps, feels ready to take a full payload in its stride and is capable enough in the corners to avoid the skittish behaviour that can blight this class of vehicle.

The Tiprraster tipping body feels well mated to the Boxer: operation is smooth and the latch system allows you to open the rear gate at the bottom or the top. Manufacturer: Vauxhall

Model: Moven°

When WE had e Vauxhall Movano on long-term test we appreciated the solid construction and strong engine, which produced decent acceleration. As its only notable shortcomings we highlighted a poor turning circle and noise insulation.

Well, we can scrub one of those criticisms because the chassiscab version cut out the noise intrusion. The Mayan° produced pretty much the performance we expected from its 99hp/260Nm. 2.5-litre common-rail engine.

No single area is class-leading but as an overall package it's hard to find fault with this Vauxhall Its appearance mirrors the current trend for a cheese-wedge look, with 21st century curves replacing the straight lines so popular in the late 1990s.

It handles well on the road and doesn't feel skittish when empty, even though it has front-wheel drive with, in theory, most of the unladen weight over the front axle. There's a high seating position for the driver with decent all-round vision, and the front end doesn't protrude at T-junctions.

Users will appreciate the amount of space in, around and beneath the seats while the doors offer generous storage for bottles and even the CM flask. Payload edges passed the one-tonne mark and the chassis-cab price is close to the Sprinter • though both are beaten by the Citroen Relay.

Manufacturer: Isuzu

Model: NKR

rho NKR offers class-leading payload potential and is cost-efle.ctive for any number uf trades, from landscaping to construction.

Being forward-control, the tight cab has minimal extra space for aersonal belongings beyond the driver's bag. paperwork and mobile, n its favour the NKR is cost-effective where payload is an issue, lauling an impressive 1,300kg.

On the road it handles well. The lack of width allows the NKR to legotiate narrow streets with ease, and helps when parking. The mgine is responsive under load with enough grunt to maintain 60mph an dual carriageways, fully laden. without problems. Which brings us to the automated gearbox. The transmission is simple to use and the changes are smooth and quiet. with the economy mode making changes at lower revs and planting you further down the box_ The auto box should extend clutch and gearbox life too.

One other pleasant surprise was the independent coil-spring front suspension, which gives a commendably firm drive. Isuzuls Achilles heel with the original suspension was a tendency to bounce the driver out of his seat when running empty over rough terrain, but the improvec suspension and auto transmission make the NKR a viable contender.

Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Faso

Model: Canter

Of all the Oriental cab-avers on test, the Mitsubishi Fuso is the closest to looking like a 'real truck', Its cab even has the width of a Westerner, and while there's not enough depth or height for the lankier drivers at least it means three-up work won't be as cramped as in the lsuzu or Toyota.

The Fuso looks and feels sturdy and reliable, and its design mirrors a 7.5-tonner, which will doubtless be a plus for some operators.

Despite looking front-heavy and running on a twin-wheel rear axle. it can still handle more than a tonne of payload with a 75kg driver.

Sat just behind the seats is a Euro-4 EGR 3.0-litre 110hp engine producing 255Nm of torque to offer brisk acceleration right up to the national speed limit and a decent degree of refinement. This, coupled with the wider cabin, makes it a viable option for the longhaul market as well as the stop/start trips that are meat and drink to lightweight tippers.

However, it was slightly slower up our timed hill climb than some of the competition, thanks in part to heavy traffic, kamikaze refuse trucks and plenty of rain.

The five gear ratios are well chosen and the change is smooth -a step forward from our test 12 months ago in which we described it as "notchy'' and "doesn't like to be rushed".

The tipper body and tipping gear is supplied by Tipmaster, with a mesh inf ill at the front to protect the cab, Manufacturer: Nissan I Model: Cabstar Like the Peugeot Boxer, Nissan's Cabstar has recently been relaunched, though the new version won't be hitting the streets just yet. The current model is powered by a 3.0-litre unit producing 105hp.

The forward-control layout restricts usable interior space and affects the Cabstar's driving position, though this is partly compensated for by the combination of adjustable seat and steering wheel. Also, the dashboard design is showing its age with a lack of practical storage.

But what the Cabstar lacks in comfort it makes up for in usability. With this design you get a tight turning circle (4.9m in this case) and maximum use of the load area. And unlike some of its panel-vanbased rivals, it is built primarily to accommodate various body types.

The engine pulls well. with a decent helping of torque from low revs, and is surprisingly refined in terms of noise penetration.

The gearshift, located just left of the driver's knee, snicks nicely between ratios and doesn't require much effort. Load capability is good, due in part to the size of the load area for such a vehicle; the Tipmaster tipping unit feels nicely integrated and operates with confidence.

But as a package the Cabstar feels laboured. You wouldn't want to rush. at higher speeds it feels nervous and doesn't track confidently.

Manufacturer: Toyota

Model: Dyna

The other tippers in the test are either new or in line for replacement, but the Dyna in the middle of its product life and on the whole it's ageing well. Its forward-control design makes interior space a little tight but the overall layout is easy to get accustomed to with simple-to-read dials.

The D-4D 2.5-litre engine idles solidly and remains in the background as the revs build. It also delivers its power in an even-handed way, picking up smoothly and remaining unruffled to the red line.

Further enhancing the driving experience is a slick gear-change, which enables the driver to work the box in a relaxed manner, while the suspension absorbs bumps and potholes with composure. But the vague steering lets it down, as it makes the driver feel disconnectE from the road—especially in corners and at higher speeds.

Against this is an impressive turning circle that allows tight manoeuvring in closed spaces such as building sites.

The tipper body feels well engineered, forming a decent partner with the Dyna's chassis. It also copes well with a full load, displayir little sluggishness when weighed down, tracking true at high spee and holding steady through the corners.

Build quality is commendable, with no squeaks and rattles even under heavy driving conditions.

Manufacturer: Renault

Model: Master

Outwardly the Master is very similar to the Vauxhall Moven° the two manufacturers worked in tandem to spread development costs. With 120hp on tap. this 2007 Euro-4 dCi-engined model was more powerful than its GM counterpart in the group -and, while they share a cab. the Master benefits from interior revisions including new shelves over the windscreen and a storage bin beneath the fascia-mounted gearshift.

The seven-seat crewcab also has a capacious tool bin tucked away beneath the rear seat squab. Other touches include a 12V socket. cup-holder. document clip, bottle-holder, map pocket and storage space under the dual front passenger seat. There's enough space and legroom to accommodate a crew without an undue squeeze.

Despite its front-wheel-drive/single-rear-wheel layout, minimum throttle and the highest possible gear got the Master through the quarry test site speedily and easily. However, the low-mounted exhaust reduced ground clearance and could cause problems. The LWB chassis is easy to drive and encourages a relaxed style with plenty of low-down torque and nicely weighted power steering.

On the road the Master's interior noise level was slightly higher than the MovanoS.

The dealer-ordered Ingimex Titan body featured a wander lead and three-way dropsides. ABS is part of the standard Master package, along with a three-year warranty and 18,000-mile oil-change Intervals.

Manufacturer Ford

Model: Transit

This Tipper Light entry proved a pleasant surprise. Transit products nave lagged behind the competition in recent years, but as a tipper the LWB crewcab 2006 model is on a par with the best of its peers.

The traditional rear-wheel-drive/twin-rear-wheel set-up offers excellent traction and stability on site. As well as adding more legroom. the five-speed fascia gearshift (six-speed on higher-power versions) is a good one and collaboration with PSA finally gives this model a decent diesel engine.

The tidy one-stop-shop VDN body comes packed with safety features in fact it's idiot-proof to the point of being counterproductive, with far too many warning notices.

The steel body frame has alloy sides and is powder-coated against corrosion its three-year parts-and-labour warranty matches that of the chassis.

VDN's rear tipper (a three-way version will be available from next January) comes with an underbody tailboard locking release, in-cab emergency stop button and body prop as standard. The tipping action is activated by VDN's own touch-screen, dashboard-mounted control box, which functions only with the driver inside the cab.

Of all the crewcabs tested here the Ford felt the most sure-footed off-road and has plenty of practical features to commend it, including twin batteries. ABS, 12V socket and wipe-clean interior.

Unlike other vehicles in this group. the Transit's body lacks rope hooks (but it does have load-securing rings in the floor).

The driveline service interval is 15,000 miles.

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz

Model: Sprinter

The 'new' Sprinter chassis came with an electro-hydraulic underflo actuated Tipmaster body and detachable alloy cage for rubbish c parks work; it easily lifted on and off with a forklift or lorry crane.

The all-alloy construction won't corrode and saves 150kg over z similar metal construction but increases the price from £4,000 to £5.000. The high mesh sides made it unsuitable for bucket load in with the aggregate test load carried by the competition so the Mer did its roadtest unladen.

East London-based Tipmaster has been this event's most faithfi supporter for more than 30 years, offering not only the obvious tipping bodies for every make of light CV but also ramps, winches cranes, tail-lifts and on board weighers, all fitted to order.

The Sprinter's crewcab feels reassuringly Germanic with excelli build quality; good. simple ergonomics; plenty of ingenious storac space: and a Spartan, easy-clean layout.

On the road the Mercedes cruises quietly and efficiently even relatively modestly powered Euro-4-engined test model felt too gc for the short hauls that will likely be its lot With a slick fascia-mount gear-change and plenty of common-rail power on tap, the Sprinte a real driver's machine.

The basic spec boasts discs all round, ABS, ESP, a whopping 24,000-mile service interval and an unlimited-mileage, three-year warranty. The single-rear-wheel/driven-back-axle configuration also performs well off-road, making this Sprinter a particularly sophisticated (and expensive) mini-tipper.

Manufacturer: Vauxhall

Model: Mayan°

Vauxhall S recent r..in of light CV sales success continues apace, no doubt frightening its no-longer-complacent competitor, Ford. With the largest chassis in the range, the Movano comes with a choice of two engines and three wheelbases. Our test model was an LWB chassis with the modest tour-pot 2.5-litre 100hp engine, which is well suited to local authorities and urban duties.

At the business end was an Ingimex rear tipping body with a nearside isolator safety switch. wander lead and electro-hydraulic underfloor tipping (so no PTO). Vehicles ordered now will be delivered with marginally more powerful Euro-4 engines; our test vehicle was one of the last Euro-3 models off the line.

Almost all manufacturers now offer a one-stop-shop service, but Vauxhall's specialist van dealers stock off-the-peg models for rapid delivery.

Inside the capacious cab there's room for a crew of seven with ventilation courtesy of sliding rear windows_ The rear tipping. singlerear-wheel/front-wheel-drive chassis handled very comfortably and was sure-footed on and off the road. Its Renault 2.5-litre CTDi engine provided bags of power for the hill-climb section of the test.

Standard features on the Ingimex body include a ladder rack, mesh cab protection and a two-way dropping tailboard.

Interior noise levels are very low; the driving position is comfortable and commanding with large, truck-sized rear-view mirrors. ABS braking. as on the other crewcabs tested here, comes as standard. Service intervals are 18,000 miles.

Manufacturer: Mitsubishi

Model: L200

Very much in a class of its own in this company, the Mitsubishi L200 combines serious off-road credentials with usable tipping ability, allowing it to venture where the competition fears to tread.

in basic 4Work guise you get precious little in terms of comfort and extras: the all-grey Spartan interior fails to raise the pulse. But ts practically laid out and the cabin feels light and airy.

Underneath you get the same set-up as the rest of the range, which means a proven 4x4 system combined with a capable offroad chassis.

Powering the L200 is a 2.5-litre 134hp common-rail unit that provides a usable amount of grunt across the range and pulls well enough from low-down, allowing you to tackle dirt tracks and inclines with confidence.

The L200 is perfectly competent on the blacktop, but takes the rough stuff in its stride. The chassis feels composed and rigid while the suspension, combined with solid steering, instils confidence, keeping the driver informed of what's happening below.

As a load carrier the Mitsubishi's size means it can't compete directly with most of the competition in terms of space, but it does have a payload of 903kg —and even when fully stacked, its driving ability is hardly affected.

Negatives amount to a gruff engine and a slightly laboured gearshift. If you need a vehicle with tipping ability that can take the rough with the smooth, the L200 has plenty to offer.

THE VERDICT

Single cabs

To get the perfect truck you would probably need to combine many parts from different manufacturers, But that being impractical, you have to choose from what is on offer. For a fully packaged offer the Citroen Relay is hard to beat: the lsuzu NKR makes decent headway in terms of its payload and driveability, helped by revamped susperl sion and auto transmission; and the Ford Transit is always in the hunt In the end driveability and cab comfort helped Mercedes claim top spot with the Sprinter. The dark horse in second place proved to be the Vauxhall Movano, a solid performer throughout. leaving Ford and Isuzu to settle for bronze.