Based on the three-door bodyshell, Corsavan has a choice of two engines. There’s the 1.3CTDi —also found in the Combo and Astravan—and a 1.2-litre Twinport petrol unit. The former produces 75hp at 4,000rpm and develops peak torque of 170Nm between 1,750rpm and 2,000rpm. The latter manages 80hp, but is woefully lacking in the torque department at 110Nm; and at 4,000rpm Both have 20,000 mile service intervals. The 1.3 diesel is a little cracker. It’s refined and offers a good spread of torque.

The front wheels are driven via a five-speed manual gearbox and the steering has speed-variable electric assistance. Brakes are front discs — ventilated on the CDTi — and rear drums, and ABS is fitted as standard. ESP is on offer as an option, but this may be overkill on a van of this size, despite its low £215 asking price.

Vauxhall has made good use of the limited available load space — 0.9m³ — and provides four load-tie rings as well as a half-height solid steel bulkhead; this can be topped-off to full height with an optional mesh grille. Payload is 550kg.

The cab is neat with a surprising amount of space considering the external dimensions of the vehicle. The facia is dominated by the centre console and the storage space is pretty impressive for a small CDV. The specification is good with remote central locking (including deadlocking) and electric door mirrors, but electric windows are optional.

As with all Vauxhall LCVs, Corsavan comes with a threeyear/ 60,000 mile mechanical warranty.

VERDICT

Stick with the CTDi and you won’t be disappointed. It’s a trendy little van with impressive fuel consumption.