In the world of light commercial vehicles (LCVs), reliability, practicality, and cost-effectiveness are essential. Whether you’re transporting goods across the country, managing a mobile workshop, or handling daily deliveries around town, the van you choose can make or break your business operations. Enter the Vauxhall Movano Panel Van — a no-nonsense workhorse that blends utility with comfort, offering an ideal solution for tradespeople, fleet managers, and small business owners alike.
A Van Built to Work
The Vauxhall Movano is the largest van in Vauxhall’s commercial line-up and is engineered with one thing in mind: getting the job done. It’s not here to win beauty contests, but when it comes to payload, space, and reliability, it delivers in spades.
One of the Movano’s standout features is its impressive cargo capacity. Available in multiple lengths (L1 to L4) and heights (H1 to H3), the van offers load volumes ranging from 8 to 17 cubic metres. Whether you’re carrying tools, appliances, or bulky construction materials, there’s a configuration to suit. The rear doors open to a full 180 degrees (with an option for 270 degrees), allowing for easy loading and unloading, even with a forklift.
Payload is equally impressive. Depending on the model, the Movano can carry up to 2,100kg, putting it at the top end of the LCV segment. That’s more than enough to handle a fully loaded day’s work without breaking a sweat.
Driving Experience: Surprisingly Civilised
Despite its size and commercial focus, the Vauxhall Movano is surprisingly refined on the road. Thanks to updated suspension and sound insulation, the ride is smoother and quieter than you might expect from a large panel van.
Powering the latest Movano is a 2.2-litre Turbo Diesel engine, available in multiple outputs ranging from around 120PS to 165PS. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox and offers a solid balance between power and fuel efficiency. It’s compliant with the latest Euro 6D emissions standards, making it more environmentally friendly and suitable for ULEZ zones.
The steering is light and responsive, especially useful when navigating tight urban areas or reversing into narrow loading bays. Parking is also helped by optional rear-view cameras and parking sensors, a blessing in a van this size.
Cabin Comforts: Built for the Driver
Vauxhall hasn’t ignored the inside of the Movano either. The cabin is spacious, well laid out, and built with durability in mind — yet it doesn’t feel as spartan as many commercial rivals. Hard-wearing materials dominate, but there are useful creature comforts like air conditioning, cruise control, and a touchscreen infotainment system (on higher trims).
The driving position is commanding with excellent forward visibility. There are numerous storage spaces dotted around the cabin, including overhead shelves, under-seat storage, and deep door bins — because in a van, staying organised is just as important as staying on schedule.
There’s also the option of a crew cab configuration, which includes an extra row of seats, allowing for up to seven occupants. Ideal for work crews or those who need to transport both people and tools in one vehicle.
Technology and Safety
Safety is a top concern for commercial vehicle buyers, and the Movano doesn’t disappoint. Features like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, hill start assist, and blind-spot monitoring are available, ensuring you and your cargo remain secure.
For fleet managers, the Movano can also be equipped with fleet telematics, helping businesses track vehicle usage, monitor fuel consumption, and schedule maintenance — potentially saving thousands in the long run.
Electric Option: Movano Electric
Vauxhall is also embracing the electric revolution with the Movano Electric. This zero-emission version offers a range of up to 154 miles (WLTP) on a single charge, making it ideal for urban delivery routes and short-haul logistics. With instant torque and lower running costs, the Movano Electric is a future-proof option for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Final Thoughts
The Vauxhall Movano Panel Van is a practical, capable, and well-rounded LCV that ticks all the boxes for professionals in need of a reliable workhorse. With a wide range of body styles, solid diesel and electric powertrains, and impressive payload capacity, it’s ready to take on virtually any job you throw at it.
Whether you’re expanding your fleet or starting a new venture, the Movano is a van that works as hard as you do — and that’s exactly what a commercial vehicle should do.