Opel Combo 1.4 Turbo CNG driving report: Charged natural gas variant

I Opel has been working in the van sector for some time with a partner. Vivaro and Movano are also available as Renault Trafic and Master with a few changes. On the other hand, Opel cooperates a class lower with Fiat. The new generation of the previously independent Opel Combo rolls off the production line together with the Doblò. And almost identical: a different bumper, the Opel Blitz on the radiator grille and steering wheel - that's it. Even the engines are all from Fiat.

Now, high-roof station wagons are usually bought out of rational considerations, in which costs play a more important role than brand independence. Because of the steep rise in gasoline prices, a combo version deserves special attention: The Opel Combo 1.4 Turbo CNG burns not only gasoline but also comparatively inexpensive natural gas.

A range of 272 kilometers is realistic

Thanks to charging, it generates 120 hp and, with 206 Nm from 3,000 rpm, guarantees significantly more temperament than the only equally large suction gasoline engine on offer with 95 hp. The Opel Combo 1.4 Turbo CNG does not have to hide from the high-torque diesel versions. From around 2,000 rpm, it delivers noticeable thrust, and even with a full load (a meager 435 kilograms) the feeling of an appropriate motorization remains, which, however, strikes a strong note at high load and speed.

Are especially interesting The fuel costs: Since a kilogram of natural gas currently costs around 50 cents less than a liter of diesel, the Opel Combo 1.4 Turbo CNG saves up to 45 euros per 1,000 kilometers in the standard cycle, compared to the gasoline engine it is even up to 80 euros. In the driving report, the Opel Combo 1.4 Turbo CNG consumed an average of 5.9 kilograms per 100 km, which means that the 16-kilo gas supply runs out more quickly - the CNG range shrinks from a theoretical 326 to a realistic 272 kilometers. In everyday life, the driver is likely to drive to one of the currently almost 900 German CNG filling stations even earlier, unless they want to touch the additional 22-liter petrol tank. Because the tiny CNG tank display integrated between the speedometer and rev counter provides information about the remaining stock only roughly via four digital bars. Particularly annoying: an on-board computer that also shows average consumption and remaining range, as well as an automatic start-stop system and a third row of seats (otherwise optional)Combo buyers forego if they choose the Opel Combo 1.4 Turbo CNG.

Opel Combo 1.4 Turbo CNG from 24,450 euros

Beyond that, no further restrictions are necessary, even in the generously dimensioned interior - and luggage room. Both benefit from the lush width of the Opel Combo, which is just as problematic in tight parking spaces as the huge, wide-opening tailgate. More practical: the rear sliding doors, which especially make it easier for children to get in and out. The robustly lined interior and the sufficiently sensitive, responsive suspension serve their purpose.

These are good prerequisites for a life as a frugal family and leisure vehicle. At 24,450 euros, the Opel Combo 1.4 Turbo CNG edition costs exactly as much as the most powerful diesel with 135 hp, but significantly more than an equally motorized, better equipped Fiat Doblo (including air conditioning).