Opel is working on a mid-lifecycle update for the Combo-e Life and its LCV equivalent, with a camouflaged prototype recently caught by our spy photographers. The fully electric van is expected to benefit from a few styling tweaks that will help it look fresh against newer rivals, and possibly combine them with an upgraded powertrain.
The Opel Combo debuted in 2018 as a member of a large group of mechanically similar minivans and LCVs, including the Citroen Berlingo, the Peugeot Rifter, and the Toyota ProAce City. The models shared most of their bodywork, interior, and EMP2 underpinnings, but featured distinct faces and emblems. Admittedly, Opel’s take wasn’t the best looking of the bunch, but hopefully, this is going to change with the upcoming facelift.
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The camouflage wrap on the prototype suggests that changes will be limited to the front bumper, grille, and lighting units. We can see a pair of slimmer headlights which appear to have a darkened background, relocated bumper intakes, and a fully covered grille. The latter will be replaced by the Opel Visor – the automaker’s signature styling feature which was introduced in production vehicles by the Mokka, before finding its way into the Astra, the Grandland, and the Corsa. The profile and the rear end are expected to be carried over, with minor changes on trim pieces, new colors, and alloy wheel designs.
Stellantis discontinued the ICE-powered versions of its passenger vans in Europe meaning that they are exclusively available in EV form since 2022. Judging from other mechanically-related EVs, the Opel Combo-e Life will likely get the more powerful electric motor that produces 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS), and the larger 54 kWh battery pack allowing an increased range. However, Opel could also keep offering the existing version with the 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) e-motor and the 50 kWh battery as a cheaper entry-level option.
Opel recently promised to unveil 18 electrified models before the end of the year, so there is a high chance that the facelifted Opel Combo-e Life and Combo-e will be among them. We expect to learn more in the coming months and hopefully spot more camouflaged prototypes of Opel’s upcoming production models.
