What Small Van?

For those not hauling hefty loads, small vans emerge as the ultimate choice: practical, budget-friendly first vans, perfect for seamless job-hopping, and a breeze to park in bustling city centers. The ideal construction starter

Comfort, easy handling, and durability are key traits for small vans. They should also offer a decent payload capacity for those times when a little extra space is needed.

Renowned brands like Ford, Volkswagen, and Citroen offer a great selection. And in the age of Ultra Low Emissions Zones, electric options like the Renault Kangoo Z.E. are gaining traction.

We've curated a list of the top 10 small vans available, including some newcomers, and provided their respective lengths for quick comparison.

 

1. Vauxhall Combo Cargo - 4.40m / 4.75m

Shared the Compact Van of the Year title at the 2021 What Van? Awards alongside its close cousins—the Peugeot Partner, Citroen Berlingo, and Toyota Proace City—the Vauxhall Combo comes in two lengths and a single roof height option. They even offer a crew van variant.

Equipped with a diverse range of efficient petrol and diesel engines and a robust set of driver assistance and safety features, it now comes with the swift and seamless EAT8 eight-speed automatic transmission.

All versions of this van are now upgradable to a fully electric powertrain. You might know them as the Citroen e-Berlingo, Peugeot e-Partner, Vauxhall Combo-e, and Toyota Proace Electric.

Here's a glimpse of its impressive specs:

• Loadspace: Up to 4,400 litres
• Payload: Up to 1,000kg
• Fuel economy: Up to 54.3mpg (diesel)
• Electric range: Up to 171 miles

 

 

2. Fiat Doblo Cargo - 4.39m / 4.74m

The Fiat Doblo Cargo might split opinions with its looks, but its versatility has earned it the title of the Tardis in the small van realm. It offers four versions: the Cargo Van (standard length), Cargo Maxi (extended length), Cargo High Roof, and Cargo XL, which combines extra length with a high roof—ideal for maximising space.

According to What Car?, "The Fiat Doblo Cargo embodies the traits of a quality small van. It handles well, accommodates both volume and weight, although its interior falls short with a dated and uninspiring design." For those leaning toward Fiat but seeking something smaller, the Fiorino is worth exploring.

Here are the impressive specs:

• Loadspace: Up to 5,000 litres
• Payload: Up to 1,005kg
• Fuel economy: Up to 47.1mpg (diesel)

 

 

3. Ford Transit Connect - 4.42m / 4.82m

The Transit Connect, a top-seller among small vans in the UK, is now in its second generation (2013-) and underwent a refresh in 2018. Powered by Ford's impressive 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine and 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, it offers a driving experience more akin to a car than a typical van.

Available in standard and long wheelbases, the double cab variant includes a second row of seats and sliding side doors, enhancing accessibility. For those loyal to Ford seeking a smaller option, the Ford Transit Courier and Ford Fiesta Van are worthy considerations.

Here are the standout specs:

• Loadspace: Up to 3,600 litres
• Payload: Up to 982kg
• Fuel economy: Up to 62.8mpg (diesel)

 

 

4. Mercedes-Benz Citan - 4.49m / 4.91m

Introduced in 2021, the brand-new second-generation Citan results from a collaboration with the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, sharing common ground with the new Renault Kangoo and Nissan Townstar.

Touted as "nimble and robust," the Citan is tailored to shine in urban landscapes. Its compact exterior dimensions belie a generous loading volume, catering to various purposes. Noteworthy are the wide-opening side doors on both sides and a low loading sill for added convenience. The perfect set up for a construction van with ease of access from all around.

Featuring a lineup of petrol and diesel engines, Mercedes-Benz ventures into new territory by offering an all-electric version—the eCitan. Notably, this variant comes with rapid-charging capabilities (10-80% in 40 minutes).

Here's a glimpse of its capabilities:

• Loadspace: Up to 2,900 litres
• Payload: Up to 752kg
• Fuel economy: To be confirmed
• Electric range: Up to 177 miles

 

 

5. Renault Kangoo - 4.49m / 4.91m

Created in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Citan and Nissan Townstar, the all-new Kangoo steps into big shoes, being a consistent top-seller for Renault. Additionally, the all-electric Kangoo Z.E. holds the title of Europe’s most popular electric van.

Launching in 2022, the third-generation Kangoo will offer two lengths, boasting slightly increased load volumes compared to its predecessor. Inside, a car-like interior meets the latest in safety and driver assistance technologies. It will provide options in petrol and diesel engines, continuing its tradition with a pure electric version.

Here are some standout specifications:

• Loadspace: Up to 4,900 litres
• Payload: Up to 1,000kg
• Fuel economy: To be confirmed
• Electric range: Up to 165 miles

 

 

6. Volkswagen Caddy Cargo - 4.5m / 4.85m

Introduced in 2021, the fifth-generation rendition of VW's beloved small van arrives with enhanced refinement and connectivity features.

Sporting a revamped design, suspension, trim variations, and technological advancements, it offers two sizes: the standard short-wheelbase (SWB) and the Maxi long-wheelbase (LWB).

Renowned for its sturdy build and prestigious branding, the Caddy Cargo presents Volkswagen's stellar lineup of petrol and diesel engines, complemented by a seven-speed DSG—a top-tier automatic gearbox in the market.

Here are some key specifications:

• Loadspace: Up to 3,700 litres
• Payload: Up to 700kg
• Fuel economy: Up to 58mpg (diesel)

 

 

7. Ford Fiesta Van - 4.04m

In both Trend and Sport specifications, the Fiesta Van offers a driving experience akin to a dynamic car, even though it's a commercial vehicle.

Powered by the Blue Oval's impressive 1.0-litre EcoBoost 123bhp turbo petrol engine, matched with a smooth six-speed manual gearbox, it's equipped with the latest safety features and driver assistance technology, ensuring a delightful driving experience.

With a mesh bulkhead and four sturdy tie-down points, transporting cargo becomes worry-free as it stays secure and stable while you drive.

Here are the essential specs:

• Loadspace: Up to 960 litres
• Payload: Up to 515kg
• Fuel economy: Up to 56.5mpg

 

 

8. Renault Zoe Van E-Tech Electric - 4.08m

Winner of the Best Value for Ownership Costs in the 2021 What Car? Van Awards, the commercial adaptation of the beloved Zoe EV boasts a 50kWh battery and an R110 electric motor generating 80kW (108hp) and a torque of 225 Nm.

Charging options are versatile—it can be easily charged overnight at home or work. When connected to a rapid 50kW DC charger, you can gain up to 90 miles of range in just 30 minutes.

Driving experience mirrors that of a regular Zoe—smooth and enjoyable—while granting unrestricted access to low emissions zones. Though the loading area is modest yet flat, the sturdy mesh bulkhead behind the front seats adds to its practicality.

Here are the standout specs:

• Loadspace: Up to 960 litres
• Payload: Up to 457kg
• Electric range: Up to 239 miles

 

 

9. Fiat Fiorino - 3.95m

The adorable Fiat Fiorino, small and nimble, offers impressive load capacity for a van derived from a car of its size.

Originally developed alongside the Peugeot Bipper and Citroen Nemo, it stands as the last of the trio still available in the UK.

Equipped with economical 1.3-litre diesel engine options (80 or 95hp), the Fiorino's interior might show some dated signs inside, but it remains an exceptional city van choice.

Here are its notable specs:

• Loadspace: Up to 2,800 litres
• Payload: Up to 610kg
• Fuel economy: Up to 57.6mpg (diesel)
  

10. Ford Transit Courier - 4.16m

Beyond the petite Fiesta Van, Ford's Transit Courier stands as the smallest member in their commercial vehicle lineup. For city dwellers, this compact, pragmatic, and cost-effective van offers unparalleled advantages.

Featuring Ford's efficient 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel and 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engines, it's well-appointed and drives remarkably akin to a car. If you're keen on sticking with the Blue Oval but prefer a smaller option, exploring the new Fiesta Van might be just the right fit.

Here are its key specifications:

• Loadspace: Up to 2,300 litres
• Payload: Up to 595kg
• Fuel economy: Up to 57.6mpg (diesel)