Vans have helped to keep the country moving in the past 18 months, and the Transit Custom is the best in the business. Whether you go for the basic steel-wheeled, black-bumpered Leader, or choose the rugged Trail and Active variants, or the high-spec Sport and MS-RT versions, it really is the van that can.
There are two body lengths and roof heights to choose from (depending on trim), while the five-seat Double Cab in-Van, multi-seat Kombi and upmarket Tourneo Custom also offer versatile family transport. Once you’ve picked a body, the 2.0 EcoBlue diesel is available in four power outputs, while 48-volt mild-hybrid tech is now available to further lower your running costs. If you want zero-emissions driving, then the range-extending Transit Custom PHEV offers 33 miles of EV range.
Commended
Volkswagen Caddy Cargo
New ground has been broken by the Caddy Cargo. It’s still a useful small van, but it’s up front where the big changes lie. The Caddy shares its tech with the Mk8 Golf, so there’s the latest connectivity and a suite of electronic kit that makes driving this van as safe and secure as any car.
Land Rover Defender Hard Top
The Defender Hard Top is a work vehicle with style. It has the same striking body as the regular SUV, but the back seats are replaced by a generous cargo area. While the cab now only has room for up to three people, it’s built to the same luxury standard as the passenger model.