TRIAL BY ROAD
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We've redesigned our long-term vehicle test page to keep you better informed on the ups and downs of ownership. We start with our first impression of a new arrival and an update on an established favourite.
We have a new member on the CM long-term fleet and this time we've gone extra-large.The LWB highroof Vauxhall Movano should satisfy most demands in the space stakes, such is the vastness of the load area — those company ads with the bloke climbing in wearing a miner's helmet may be justified after all. And so far it's proved to be a positive addition thanks to its easy road manners and reassuring build quality for such a big van.There's very little rattle or flex even on uneven road surfaces.
It's too early to be talking about fuel economyjust yet but the signs are that this won't be a problem, particularly once the engine loosens up.This particular example is a 10-litre common-rail turbo-diesel producing 134hp with a hefty 320Nm of torque. It more than copes with the not inconsiderable vehicle weight, even when fully laden, and it's a smooth operator.
Unfortunately, it seems that the size is just a bit too much for some to handle as KE05 EHW has already suffered some battle damage.Though the turning circle is good for such a large vehicle it wasn't good enough as it exited a petrol station and made friends with a barrier, damaging the left rear side. •