With so many options on the market, choosing the right van for your business can be tricky.
From Ford Transit Customs to Toyota Proaces, let’s compare the most popular medium vans based on essential features like fuel economy, on-road cost, and reliability – drawing on the latest road tests and expert reviews.
What are the most popular medium vans?
The Ford Transit Custom ranks as the best-selling van in the UK, according to the latest list from the RAC. Meanwhile, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, ranks the bestselling medium-sized vans in the UK over the last 12 months:
- Ford Transit Custom
- Toyota Proace
- Vauxhall Vivaro
- Renault Trafic
- Mercedes Vito
The best medium vans for 2026 compared
Ford Transit Custom
Best for: versatility
Price Range (new): £28,000-£40,000
The Ford Transit Custom is renowned as an all-rounder. It provides a great driving experience, has a capacity of up to 1.5 tonnes, and is available in numerous configurations. Making it a versatile choice for many UK businesses.
The variety of engine choices is a key selling point too. Diesel options include three power outputs, manual or automatic gearboxes, and front- or four-wheel drive.
For those looking to reduce emissions, there’s a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) for city driving as well as a fully electric E-Transit Custom.
The cab is well-designed with a flat floor, a large touchscreen, a digital dashboard, and full smartphone connectivity.
While the load area is larger and wider than many competitors, the Ford Transit’s handling is comparable to a large SUV.
Toyota Proace
Best for: warranty and aftercare
Starting price (new): £23,000-£55,000
The Toyota Proace shares lots of similarities to other vans on this list. The Proace range includes three engine options, four trim levels, and a sport variant.
All models come with a 10-inch touchscreen as standard. It’s comfortable to drive, though the cab is smaller compared to the Ford Transit.
But what makes the Toyota Proace stand out is its aftercare. Toyota provides up to a 10-year warranty on the Proace, provided servicing is carried out every two years or 25,000 miles at an approved centre.
There’s also a ‘relax warranty’ available on used Proaces – where Toyota gives you two years of cover with every service.
Vauxhall Vivaro
Best for: fleet management
Price range (new): £27,500-£36,000
The Vauxhall Vivaro is similar to the Toyota Proace, sharing the same platform, engines, and core specifications. The differences come down to badge, front-end styling, and minor trim variations.
The Vivaro is comfortable to drive, has a competitive payload of up to 1,446kg, and offers a car-like ride.
The layout on most models allows items longer than 3.6 metres to be carried, and even entry-level models have this option.
The key advantage of the Vivaro is the number of registered Vauxhall dealerships in the UK. This offers flexibility and can be particularly useful for businesses running mixed fleets that need consistent servicing.
Renault Trafic
Best for: long loads
Price range (new): £28,000-£58,000
The Renault Trafic is a solid, dependable van that punches above its weight when it comes to loading length.
Even the shortest version can accommodate three pallets. Which makes it a strong option if you regularly carry long or bulky items but don’t want to move up to a large panel van.
All but the base model come with a load-through bulkhead and a lift-up passenger seat for extra flexibility. Renault can also fit an internal roof rack for additional storage.
Diesel engines range from 130 to 170hp, with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic available on higher-output variants.
Mercedes Vito
Best for: slick design
Price range (new): £32,000-£63,000
The Mercedes Vito is the most car-like van on this list. Its 2024 version modernised the interior. Adding technology taken from Mercedes’ passenger car range, like a 10.25-inch infotainment screen.
All Vitos are rear-wheel drive, and buyers can choose from three 2.0-litre diesel engines producing up to 184bhp. The top two engine options come with Mercedes’ smooth nine-speed automatic gearbox as standard.
The trade-off is Vito’s in this range can’t carry over a tonne – noticeably less than every other van on this list.
Running costs are reasonable, though, and Mercedes provides up to 30 years of roadside assistance, provided servicing is kept up to date at an authorised dealer.
Useful guides for business van drivers
- Commercial vehicles – what van should I buy?
- A guide on buying or leasing a van
- What is business breakdown cover?
- What does commercial van insurance cover?
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