40 Years of the Opel Combo: From Kadett Derivative to Modern Electric Van

The Opel Combo celebrates its 40th anniversary, recalling its evolution from a Kadett derivative in 1985 to the modern van shared with Stellantis. The model’s history reflects its transition from a spartan cargo vehicle to a highly functional family and commercial option.

The development of the Opel Combo began in the mid-80s in the form of Kadett derivatives. These were the Opel Kadett Van and the Kadett Combo of the compact’s fifth generation. Both models debuted at the Frankfurt IAA in 1985. The first version carried the name Opel Kadett Combo (Vauxhall Astramax in the British market) and was later classified as Combo A.

The Combo A was manufactured from January 1986 to August 1993, exceeding the production period of its original platform, the Kadett E. Instead of the Kadett’s torsion axle, a rigid axle with leaf springs was used at the rear. This allowed for a higher payload.

Evolution Towards the Independent Van Concept

Eight years later, at the 1993 IAA, the second generation, the Opel Combo B, appeared. This model used the Opel Corsa B platform. It moved further away from the character of a derived estate, resembling a light van more closely. Therefore, the Combo B series is considered one of the most independent Combo generations. It ceased to be a station wagon without rear side windows to become a small van in its own right. In the summer of 1995, the Combo Tour was also introduced with a second row of seats and windows in the rear of the vehicle.

In 2001, the third generation based on the Corsa C made its debut, of course, at the IAA. It competed in a growing segment of small commercial vehicles and five-seater high-roof family cars. As before, production took place at the Azambuja plant in Portugal. The engine range included gasoline, diesel, and natural gas options. Depending on the version, the Combo was available with a split tailgate or a large tailgate.

Shared Platforms and Electric Success

Ten years later, the Opel Combo D followed, presented again in Frankfurt. This model series was technically closely related to the second generation of the Fiat Doblò. It adopted its platform and engine range. With a significantly larger body, the Combo D offered more space for cargo or passengers.

In the summer of 2018, Opel presented the current fifth generation at the Hannover fair. The Opel Combo E is based on the EMP2 platform of the Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Rifter models. It is available in two wheelbases. For the first time, a fully electric version also existed. The Combo E Cargo won the title of ‘International Van of the Year 2019’. The decisive factors were its driving comfort, its modern assistance systems, and its low operating costs. The Combo E received a significant renewal in 2024.