Best Small Vans of 2025
Mid-sized vehicles like the Ford Transit Custom are often associated with the term ‘van’, but small commercial vehicles play a significant role in the world. The best small vans offer a convenient and accessible route into commercial vehicles, ideal for deliveries and jobs in tight cities. They’re perfect for those who’ve never driven anything bigger than a car before and can be highly efficient and cost-effective.
Toyota Proace City
The Toyota Proace City is identical to the Citroen Berlingo and its siblings, making it comfortable, enjoyable to drive, and capable of carrying over a tonne of payload for the best versions. An update in 2024 introduced more modern technology, including a large touchscreen and comprehensive safety features. Toyota offers up to a decade of warranty coverage, provided you maintain your van with them, making it an attractive option.
Citroen Berlingo/Peugeot Partner/Vauxhall Combo/Fiat Doblo
These vehicles are essentially the same, with the exception of a slightly different dashboard for the Peugeot Partner. The choice between them depends on personal preference, dealership proximity, available deals, and existing vehicle fleet commitments. They offer efficient engines, a great payload, and a comfortable driving experience. A clever load-through bulkhead option provides almost as much loading length as some mid-sized vans.
Renault Kangoo/Nissan Townstar
The Renault Kangoo is a fantastic van for those who spend a lot of time behind the wheel. It feels car-like to drive, thanks to its compact dimensions and smooth powertrain. The internal roof rack is a clever feature, allowing for the transportation of long items like ladders. However, the max payload is just shy of a ton, and internal loading dimensions are on the smaller side.
Ford Transit Connect
The current Ford Transit Connect is worth considering, even with the upcoming new model. It’s enjoyable to drive, feeling almost like a Ford Focus on the road, with precise steering and satisfying controls. The cargo bay is well thought out and capacious, both in size and payload. The Ford Pro suite of business services can simplify life for those running a single van or a fleet.
Volkswagen Caddy Cargo
The Volkswagen Caddy is a classy and comfortable van, offering a premium feel on a smaller scale. There’s a range of options, including a petrol engine, 4Motion four-wheel drive, and an excellent DSG automatic transmission. However, it loses out on payload capacity, with the best version carrying around 700kg.
Ford Transit Courier
Ford’s newest, smallest, and cheapest van is a useful option for small loads. It’s smaller than many cars and offers a digital-first cabin. The driving experience is top-notch, and it’s one of the cheapest vans available, with the added benefit of being tied to the FordPro fleet management system.
Mercedes Citan
The Mercedes Citan is Mercedes’ smallest van, offering a plush interior and premium feel. While it has a higher price tag, it provides a more premium experience than its counterparts. Payload and loading dimensions are good but not the best in its class.
Toyota Corolla Commercial
The Toyota Corolla Commercial is based on the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports Estate, with modifications to create a van. It’s comfortable, efficient, and less of a target for thieves. However, it has a low loading height and a small payload of just 425kg.
Land Rover Defender 90 Hard Top
The Land Rover Defender 90 Hard Top is a capable van that can handle off-road terrain. While it can’t carry a lot, its payload is nearly 900kg. The high floor can make loading challenging, and the short variants can only be loaded through the back door.
