Ford Transit
The best-known van in the UK retains its Best Large Van title thanks, once again, to the excellence and breadth of its offering. There are large vans that are potentially newer and fresher in terms of their cabin, but none offer the Transit’s variety.
This is down, in a large part, to the fantastic E-Transit, which is streaks ahead of the rest of the class when it comes to an all-electric van. But there is so much more to the Transit than that.
It is well equipped, has front-, rear- and four-wheel drive versions, is supported by a comprehensive dealer network and the ever-expanding Ford Pro proposition and it is excellent to drive. It is, in short, a consummate all rounder that justifies its position as the nation’s most famous name in commercial vehicles.
Read the full Ford Transit review
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Based on a 43-year-old male the Ford Transit would cost £832.19 to insure.
*Insurance quotes are from mustard.co.uk and are based on a 43-year-old, employed married male living in Stowmarket with nine-years’ NCD and no claims or convictions. Insurance quotes will vary depending on individual circumstances.
HIGHLY COMMENDED
Volkswagen Crafter
The VW Crafter has picked up the Best Large Van award several times in the past, but has had to be satisfied with a runners-up position in recent years. This is not to take anything away from the physical Crafter vehicle, though, as it is an excellent large van in many ways. It is great on the road, has a fantastic cabin and is really simple to use, making driving a large van remarkably accessible.
It is the lack of an electric version that sees it lose out to the Transit, though, with nothing planned until the new model arrives in 2026 at the earliest. This means it can’t be all things to all buyers, but if you need a standard Crafter then you’ll likely be more than happy with your choice.
Read the full Volkswagen Crafter review
MAN TGE
The MAN TGE is much the same van as the Crafter – the two are built alongside one another in the same factory and it is only really the badging that is different. However, crucially they are sold and serviced through a different set of dealers, hence we treat the two separately.
Because MAN is more used to working with truck customers, its dealer network is more geared towards later opening hours and is more focused on minimising downtime. On the flip side, it’s easier to find a VW Commercial Vehicle dealer, so both have their appeals. Underneath it is still the same excellent van as the Crafter, so on a daily basis you will be rewarded with a fantastic vehicle to drive and work with.
Read the full MAN TGE review