The Opel Vivaro B is a practical and versatile commercial vehicle that has gained popularity in Europe and beyond. However, it's known by different names in different countries, which can sometimes cause confusion. Let's explore what it's called worldwide, what makes it special, and some interesting stories associated with it.
What is the Vivaro B called in other countries?
The Opel Vivaro B is the second generation of the model, produced since 2014. Due to partnerships between automakers, this van also goes by other names:
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Vauxhall Vivaro - in the UK (Opel and Vauxhall are the same company, just different branding for different markets)
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Peugeot Expert - in France and several other countries (due to collaboration with PSA Group)
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Citroën Jumpy - another PSA Group variant, especially popular in French-speaking regions
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Toyota ProAce - in some European countries, as Toyota used the PSA platform for its van
Essentially, it's the same vehicle with minor design and tuning differences between brands.
How to Remove the Front Bumper
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Open the hood.
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Unscrew the four bolts securing the radiator grille.
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Remove the radiator grille by pulling it upward and releasing the lower part from its clips.
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Under the grille, unscrew the two bolts securing the top of the front bumper.
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From underneath, unscrew the three bolts securing the underbody panel.
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Turn the wheels inward toward the wheel arches.
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In the wheel arches, unscrew two (four) bolts on each side.
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Release the sides from the clips in the fenders.
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With an assistant, carefully remove the bumper by pulling it forward, being careful not to damage the wiring harness.
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Disconnect the electrical connectors for electronic components.
How to Remove the Rear Bumper
The rear bumper may consist of three parts or be a single piece. If it's in three parts, the center section is removed first.
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Open the tailgate doors.
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In the tailgate opening, unscrew five bolts.
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In the wheel arches, unscrew two bolts on each side.
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Release the sides from the clips in the fenders.
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Disconnect the taillight power connectors.
Model Description: What Makes the Vivaro B Special?
The Vivaro B is a compact yet spacious van that works equally well for commercial use or as a family vehicle in the Combi (passenger) version.
Design and Dimensions:
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Modern, slightly angular bodywork with recognizable Opel grille
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Length from 4.6 to 5.3 meters (depending on version)
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Payload capacity up to 1.4 tons, with cargo volume up to 6.6 m³
Engines:
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Gasoline and diesel options, including the economical 1.6 CDTI (90 to 180 hp)
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Available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive
Comfort and Technology:
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Comfortable seats, spacious cabin, and good sound insulation for a van
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Available multimedia systems with touchscreens, rearview camera, and driver assistance systems
Versatility:
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Cargo version: excellent for couriers and small businesses
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Passenger Combi version: great for large families or shuttle services
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Also available as an electric version - the Opel Vivaro-e with about 330 km range
Interesting Facts About the Vivaro B
Three-Brand Project
The Vivaro B was developed through an alliance between Opel, Peugeot and Citroën, reducing development costs but resulting in "clones" under different names.
Military Service
In France, the Citroën Jumpy (same as Vivaro) was used by the military and police as command vehicles and transport for special units.
Electric Evolution
The Vivaro-e was one of Opel's first mass-market electric vehicles in the commercial segment, praised for smooth driving and low operating costs.
Van Racing?
Some countries host amateur racing events for commercial vehicles, and the Vivaro B sometimes participates - in modified form, of course.
Popular With Travelers
Thanks to its space and reliability, the Vivaro B is often converted into mini-campers, with many DIY "homes on wheels" based on it across Europe.
Conclusion
The Opel Vivaro B is a classic "workhorse" valued for its practicality and versatility. Its "twins" under Peugeot, Citroën and Toyota brands only expanded its market presence. If you need a reliable van for work or family trips, the Vivaro B definitely deserves consideration. Who knows - it might just become the foundation for your next adventure?