Small vans are part of the lifeblood of the UK's business infrastructure. The best small vans can get through narrow roads to make deliveries where larger vans or commercial vehicles can't reach. What's more, their compact dimensions means they carry a reasonable initial purchase price, and they will deliver low running costs which will help to keep business overheads in check.
While there are a limited range of small vans on sale, there is some variety when it comes to body styles. The smallest vans deliver plenty of practicality within their tiny dimensions, but you don't have to compromise on space with any of these models.
There are short and long wheelbases on offer with the slightly larger vans in this class, while some models are available in crew cab form, with up to five seats inside and a large load area behind a fixed bulkhead. Other vans come with high-roof configurations like their larger counterparts, and they have taller back doors to boost access, too. And if you're after something different from your average small van, or you need some off-road ability as part of your job, then there are commercial versions of the current crop of 4x4s on offer, too.
Most of these vans come with economical diesel engines in a variety of power outputs, although more makers are offering petrol power as an alternative. But if you're after a really green machine, then there are zero emissions electric vans on offer for buyers who do lots of short, local trips and are able to charge the van up where possible. What's even more attractive about EV vans is that tax rates are far lower than their diesel counterparts, which will help to cut business outgoings even further.
But which are the best small vans on sale in the UK today? We've rounded up the runners and riders and listed them accordingly, and for the sake of clarity we've combined those models that are essentially the same save for the badges on their nose.
Best small vans 2017
- 1. Ford Transit Connect
- 2. Volkswagen Caddy
- 3. Dacia Duster Commercial
- 4. Fiat Doblo Cargo/Vauxhall Combo
- 5. Nissan NV200
- 6. Renault Kangoo
- 7. Mercedes Citan
- 8. Citroen Berlingo/Peugeot Partner
- 9. Citroen Nemo/Peugeot Bipper/Fiat Fiorino
- 10. Renault Twizy Cargo
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