Corsavan sets new standard

As you might expect from a car that has had its side windows replaced with metal, the Vauxhall Corsavan drives quite similarly to the standard-issue Corsa hatchback.

In case you weren't clued in, this means it drives very well indeed.

The engines include a 69bhp 1.2-litre petrol version that acts as a budget entry-level variant, then beyond that there are 73 and 93bhp versions of the 1.3litre CDTi diesel, both fitted with start-stop system to stretch fuel economy a bit further in town.

All versions drive the front wheels via a manual gearbox, which is where Vauxhall is maybe missing a trick on such an urbanoriented vehicle. Something not requiring so much left leg action would be a welcome addition to the range.

Hot hatch – or business tool? You don't expect a van – any van – to look this sporty. Such, though, are the benefits in design of not having to worry about incorporating a boxy load space out back. It does look pretty slick, especially trim.

Prices, as you'd expect, are very comparable with those of this model's closest rival, the Ford Fiestavan. The figures open at about £11,000 excluding VAT for the 1.2-litre version. Step up to the 73bhp 1.3 CDTi and you're looking at just over in racy Sportive £12,000, while the 93bhp ecoFLEX version will leave you with a bit of change from £13,000.

This Vauxhall represents a strong all-round package if you need a van that's small and nippy.

It now sets the standard for supermini-derived LCVs of this sort.