Opel Combo Cargo Compact Van Gains 4×4 Option For €6,400

The Opel Combo Cargo follows in the footsteps of its platform siblings from PSA and gains access to the all-wheel drive system developed by French company Dangel.

The compact van is now available with an optional selectable AWD that gets installed by Dangel for an additional €6,400 (approximately $7,200) in Germany.

While that’s not cheap, the conversion also includes protection plates for the engine and transmission, the optimization of the steering and suspension systems, as well as a 20 mm (0.78 in) higher ground clearance compared to the front-wheel-drive version.

Also Read: Peugeot Rifter 4×4 Concept Takes The French Van Off The Beaten Path

Optionally, Automobiles Dangel also offers additional protection for the fuel tank and rear axle, as well as a 80 mm (3.15 in) higher ground clearance. Drivers can choose between two drive modes (Eco and Auto 4WD) via a rotary switch on the instrument panel. In Eco mode, the Combo Cargo functions in front-wheel drive only for optimal fuel economy.

When the going gets tough(er), Auto 4WD can be engaged on the move. The viscous coupling of the central differential then distributes part of the torque to the rear axle as soon as the front wheels begin to lose grip. If conditions become even more demanding, the driver can select “R. Lock” to lock the rear axle. Dangel even offers an optional limited-slip rear differential that helps maintain traction in the most difficult driving conditions.

The optional four-wheel-drive system is available in combination with the most powerful engine in the van’s lineup, the 130 PS (128 hp) 1.5-liter turbo diesel that’s linked to a six-speed manual transmission. Opel says the Combo Cargo 4×4 averages 6.8 liters/100 km (41.5 mpg UK) and 179 g/km CO2 as measured on the WLTP cycle.