The new Opel Combo Cargo is International Van of the Year 2019 (IVOTY), the most coveted title in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) business. Awarding the Combo 127 points, the jury of 25 specialist journalists from 25 European countries put the new Opel well ahead of the second-placed Mercedes Sprinter (92 points).

The high driving pleasure, the innovative assistance systems and the economy of the Opel van played a decisive role in the new Combo bringing this prestigious award to Rüsselsheim for the third time since its introduction in 1992. Opel previously won the International Van of the Year award with the Astra Van in 1999 and with the Vivaro in 2002. The new Opel Combo has been developed by Groupe PSA and optimised to meet the needs of the brand. The prize-giving took place at the IAA commercial vehicle show in Hannover. Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller accepted the award for the Combo from IVOTY President, Jarlath Sweeney.

“We are very proud of this award,” said Michael Lohscheller. “The victory also shows the possibilities for Opel within Groupe PSA. With the Combo we are now attacking the C-van segment – until now we have not played a prominent role here. There is great growth potential for Opel in the LCV business. It is therefore appropriate that we have received the responsibility for developing a new LCV platform for the whole Groupe PSA in Rüsselsheim.” The IVOTY jury was highly impressed by the talents of the Combo: “The engineers and designers

International Van of the Year 2019: IVOTY President Jarlath Sweeney (right) presents Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller with the award for the new Combo.

succeeded for the first time in the history of LCVs to create a multi-brand cooperation van, where all brands maintain their core values and brand personality without almost any compromise. The PSA models are redefining the entire segment of modern compact vans, with a fresh approach in design, fit and finish on par with compact cars and a unique feeling of comfort.”