The Vauxhall Vivaro Life Electric is a large, practical MPV offering exceptional interior space and configurability, though its performance and range are notable compromises. Available in two lengths (standard and XL) and with various seating arrangements – from nine-seat minibuses to six- or seven-seat layouts with individual, movable chairs – the Vivaro Life prioritizes versatility above all else.
Interior Flexibility and Space
The core appeal of the Vivaro Life lies in its cabin. The XL version, stretching over 5.4 meters, provides substantial cargo space when seats are folded. The longer model can accommodate loads up to 3.5 meters long with all seats down, compared to 3.16 meters in the standard length.
Higher trim levels, particularly the Ultimate, offer the most adaptable setup. Drop-and-Go mounting rails allow seats to be slid, removed, or replaced with individual chairs featuring integrated storage and fold-out picnic tables. This allows for rapid transformation from a passenger van to a cargo carrier, or even a basic sleeping/living space.
While seat manipulation can be cumbersome, the result is a cabin that can be tailored to almost any need. The standard Combi model is a basic nine-seater, while Design trims remove the front jump seat for easier access. The Ultimate offers maximum flexibility with eight seats as standard, configurable down to six or seven.
Powertrain and Performance
Underneath, the Vivaro Life utilizes Stellantis’s ‘e-CMP’ electric powertrain – a 134bhp motor powered by a 75kWh (69kWh usable) NMC battery. This setup delivers adequate, but far from exciting, performance.
The vehicle requires a sluggish 14.3 seconds to reach 62mph and is limited to 82mph. This is not a car for rapid acceleration or high-speed motorway driving; its electric motor, designed for smaller cars, feels strained powering this 2.2-tonne vehicle. However, for urban commutes and slower-paced journeys, the performance is sufficient.
Driving Experience and Comfort
The Vivaro Life handles predictably for a large MPV: softly sprung and comfortable, but lumbering. Its 3.3-meter wheelbase and high center of gravity result in noticeable body roll, slow steering, and a slightly clunky ride on rough surfaces. Despite this, the raised driving position and excellent visibility make it easy to maneuver.
Regenerative braking is adjustable via paddles, offering near one-pedal driving at its strongest setting. The ride is generally comfortable, absorbing bumps reasonably well despite the vehicle’s weight.
Range and Charging
Real-world electric range is a weak point. While claiming up to 216 miles (WLTP), expect 160-170 miles on motorways, rising to around 200 miles on mixed roads. This limits its appeal for long-distance travel, requiring frequent DC rapid charging stops (up to 100kW).
The charging port’s placement on the nearside front wing is practical, avoiding obstruction of the large rear bootlid.
Price and Value
Starting at around £35,000 for the base Combi model and climbing to over £50,000 for a fully loaded Ultimate XL, the Vivaro Life is competitively priced. It undercuts rivals like the Volkswagen ID Buzz and is cheaper than its Toyota Proace Verso sibling. Given its space and versatility, the pricing aligns with expectations for a large electric MPV.
Conclusion
The Vauxhall Vivaro Life Electric is a no-nonsense, spacious, and highly configurable MPV. While its performance and range are uninspiring, its interior flexibility and reasonable price make it a compelling option for families or businesses prioritizing practicality over thrills. If you need a vehicle that can adapt to a wide range of tasks, the Vivaro Life delivers – even if it does so at a leisurely pace.
