Over the course of your new van’s first three years, owners lose more money through van depreciation than any other factor, including fuel, insurance and servicing costs. Across the three sectors (small, medium and large vans), an average of between £14,000 and £15,000 will be lost through van residual values in the first 36 months.
We took the future residual values for all the mainstream vans currently on the market, based on three years and 60,000 miles. Medium vans retained the most of their original list prices (residual values of between 25 and 37 percent), which equates to a loss of around £14,000.
Small van residual values (between three and 4.5 cubic metres)
Small vans, on average, retain around 26 percent of their original value after three years and 60,000 miles. Winning this sector with 31.5 percent retention is the Ford Transit Connect, although the Nissan NV200 will lose less value in real terms thanks to its much lower list price (28 percent retention; depreciates by £10,700).
Winner: Ford Transit Connect
Average list price: £16,347
Average depreciation: 31.5 percent
Value after three years/60,000 miles: £5,138
Amount lost in depreciation: £11,209
See the full list of Small Van Depreciation Rates.
Medium van residual values (between 4.5 and seven cubic metres)
When it comes to holding their value, medium vans perform the strongest thanks to their high demand (large enough for most van operators, while small enough to easily manoeuvre and fit on a drive). Most medium vans hold around 28 percent of their original list price, and it’s no surprise that the VW Transporter wins with 37 percent due to its respected built quality and high desirability.
Winner: Volkswagen Transporter
Average list price: £21,835
Average retention: 37 percent
Value after three years/60,000 miles: £7,988
Amount lost in depreciation: £13,847
See the full list of Medium Van Depreciation Rates.
Large van residual values (above 7.5 cubic metres)
Large vans perform quite poorly when it comes to residual values, with the average vehicle holding between 25 and 26 percent of its original value. With its renowned build quality and high levels of comfort and refinement, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter wins this segment thanks to a respectable 29 percent retention after three years and 60,000 miles.
Winner: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Average list price: £26,875
Average retention: 29 percent
Value after three years/60,000 miles: £7,913
Amount lost in depreciation: £18,962
See the full list of Large Van Depreciation Rates.
Also read: Cheapest Vans to Run
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