Finding a large van to meet your needs may not be as straightforward as it sounds. After all there’s lots to consider, including driveability, technology and comfort, besides load capacity. Here are our picks for the best large commercial van in 2019.
The Relay is one of the largest vans in this class, with a payload capacity of up to 17 cubic metres or 2,310kg, and a load bay up to 4.1m long and 2.2m high. A sliding side door 1.25m wide – enough to get a Euro pallet through - is standard on all models. It’s responsive to drive too, offering remarkable manoeuvrability for its size.
Another 17 cubic metre mammoth, Peugeot's Boxer has always been popular. Payload capacity is up to 1,900kg, and the load bay is up to 4.1m long, 1.87m wide and 2.17m high. The Boxer can also tow up to 3,000kg. Again, there’s a 1.25m-wide sliding side door, and a load sill between 54cm and 57cm high. Hop into the cab and you’ll soon be able to make yourself comfortable, as well as stay connected on the move thanks to an array of technology on newer models.
The Crafter is packed full of technology and, despite its size, surprisingly car-like and refined to drive, with a comfortable ride and good handling. There’s 18.4 cubic metres of load space on offer – up to six Euro pallets – a payload of up to 1,454kg and towing capacity of up to 3,500kg. At 1.3 metres wide, the sliding passenger-side door makes loading super-easy, and there are cargo tie-down points to keep cargo secure.
Now more than 50 years old, the reliable Transit is still king of the panel van world, both in terms of popularity and quality. Load capacity is up to 15.1 cubic metres or 2,300kg, towing capacity is up to 3,500kg, and the load bay is up to 4.22m long. Driveability is a real strength in the Transit too, and it's refined and comfortable on the road, with a driver's seat that's adjustable eight ways. All models have a radio with Bluetooth, USB and MP3 connectivity.
The Sprinter has been a big seller since it was launched in Europe in 1995. It enjoys an excellent reputation for reliability and quality, and is also very strong on comfort, technology and safety features. Payload capacity is up to 2,547kg or 15.5 cubic metres, in a load compartment 1.7m wide and up to an impressive 4.8m long.
At used van dealers Vanwise Group, we have a wide selection of great quality used vans, including a wide selection of larger options for businesses with a demanding schedule. To test drive one of them, call our Harlow dealership on 01279 216163.
We offer a range of vans on financeand van contract hire options too – and our in-house technicians also carry out van servicing and repairs, so if something ever goes wrong, you can come straight back to us to get it fixed.