Vauxhall Vivaro-e review

The Vauxhall Vivaro-e’s interior is near identical to the standard Vivaro’s - and that’s no bad thing; only the instrument cluster and the buttons where the gear stick would be have changed.

Selecting forward and reverse is done using a rocker switch on the lower centre of the dash. Above the gear indicator is a button for Park and below is the B-mode function for the higher level of regenerative braking. Another rocker switch to the left selects the Normal, Power and Eco Drive Modes.

Other changes to the dash clusters include a power meter in place of the usual rev counter, which shows you whether you are charging the batteries (when lifting off, braking or in B mode) and how much energy you are using while accelerating. You’ll also see a battery charge level indicator instead of the fuel gauge and a trip computer which, among other things, tells you how much predicated range you’ve got left, how much energy you’re using or your speed.

The rest of the cabin is pure Vivaro That means it’s nice and comfortable and well put together, but it is on the small side. The seating position is quite low, and for bigger drivers it will feel cramped. It could do with larger mirrors and more space in the footwells.

However, even with standard Dynamic trim level you don’t feel hard done by, thanks to a fully adjustable driver’s seat, cruise control, 7in colour touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers and an electronic hand brake.

Elite versions get satellite-navigation, a rear-view camera, a lane-depature warning system and speed sign recognition as well as a drowsiness alert system. There’s also electric door mirrors and front parking sensors.