Best Large Vans In 2024

Large vans, the heavyweights of the van world, play a crucial role in transporting large loads across the country and beyond. But beyond their cargo-carrying capabilities, these vans often serve as mobile workshops or maintenance vehicles, supporting various industries and keeping essential services operational. In this article, Tom Roberts explores the best large vans available in the UK.
Large vans, typically weighing up to 3500kgs GVM, can be driven by most holders of a full car license, often without the need for an additional goods vehicle operating license or a tachograph (unless towing). This makes operating a large van very similar to driving a smaller vehicle, and most users find making the transition between van and car an easy thing to. Moreover, large vans can also be converted, becoming platforms for tippers, Lutons and motorhomes or minibus-style passenger vehicles, showcasing their versatility on UK roads. Let's delve into the top contenders:

The Vauxhall Movano stands out as a robust workhorse, even among all the robust workhorses in the large van marketplace. Offering drivers a choice of three body lengths and roof heights, it can be specified to meet a range of needs, with even the largest L4H3 model boasting an impressive 1305kg payload capacity. Equipped with essential features like air conditioning, cruise control, and standard satellite navigation, the Movano provides both functionality and comfort – which is basically all you need from a large van. The image below is of the new facelift version soon to be launched!

The iconic Ford Transit continues to be a reliable choice for thousands of small businesses and fleets in the UK. With multiple body lengths, roof heights and weight options available, the Transit makes a bold impression, especially with its distinctive grille. The range includes four trim levels, three diesel engines, a mild hybrid version, and the powerful all-electric E-Transit that offers a colossal 269PS and an official range of 196 miles.

Renowned for its high-quality and reliability, the Volkswagen Crafter boasts strong build quality and aesthetics and the ability to carry up to 3 Euro pallets in its largest size. Available in front, rear, or all-wheel drive, with diesel engines producing up to 177PS, it makes mincemeat of the roads and can even handle steep inclines with ease. The cab interior, reminiscent of Volkswagen’s cars, offers a clear instrument panel and user-friendly features making it a top choice.

The Maxus Deliver 9 proves to be a modern, functional van that more people should really be adding to their wishlists. With payloads up to 1240kg and an all-electric version with an impressive range of up to 185 miles available, there’s nothing stopping it from catering to those looking for a hardworking van. A version using a 163PS diesel engine is also available, but Maxus are really proving their ability to create electric vans that offer real payloads with realistic ranges.

A well-established heavy van, the Renault Master has sold well in its native France and has gained a loyal following. Known for its spacious and comfortable cab environment, it offers excellent storage options, including cup holders, trays, shelves and a 7.6-litre glovebox. The range includes various engine choices, and the all-electric E-Tech Master is a notable option you might be interested in checking out if you want to make the switch.

The Citroen Relay excels in functionality terms by offering payloads of up to 1495kg and a massive loadspace volume of up to 17 cubic meters. Its extended service intervals last for 32,000 miles or 2 years (whichever comes first), and its 2.2-litre diesel engines offer significant fuel efficiency, with most models capable of achieving a combined fuel consumption figure of 40.1mpg.

Sharing a platform with the Citroen Relay, Vauxhall Movano, Fiat Ducato, and Toyota Proace Max, the Peugeot Boxer comes from good stock and offers up to 1570kg payloads (if you opt for the L2H1 model). The single trim level, Professional Premium+, comes well-equipped with features like air conditioning, a 7-inch touchscreen with DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity, satellite navigation, and advanced smartphone functionality.

Renowned for its reliability, versatility and for being tough as nails, the Iveco Daily serves as a robust workhorse with a unique ladder-style chassis frame. It offers one of the largest load volumes on the market, reaching 19.6 cubic meters in its largest size. With a wide range of engine options, body configurations and trims available, there’s bound to be a variant to suit anyone’s requirements.

Formerly known as the NV400, the Nissan Interstar provides flexibility for drivers with four trim levels and various cargo volumes to choose from (ranging from 8 to 17 cubic meters). The L1H1 model offers a substantial 1600kg payload capacity. Nissan's confidence in the Interstar is reflected in its generous 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind that if the brand backs it, so should you.

Today’s large vans are highly reliable, as evidenced by manufacturers offering extended warranties that showcase their own confidence in their product’s durability.

With efficient Euro 6 diesel engines, many large vans now achieve over 35 mpg in real-world use, ensuring cost-effective operation.

Most diesel-powered large vans can tow, but it's essential to check for tachograph regulations. Some large electric vans may not be approved for towing, so make sure you read the specifications to find out if it can.

Large diesel vans typically offer payloads of anywhere between 1100kg and 1500kg, while electric vans often carry less due to the weight of the battery pack.

There is no standard size for large vans, as they vary in body lengths and heights. A typical large van, like the Ford Transit L3H2, may have a load volume of 11.5 cubic meters, but this figure will vary across models and makes.

Crew or double cab large vans with a second row of seats and ample loadspace can serve as versatile dual-purpose vehicles suitable for families. Although you might prefer to use a medium van for its slightly smaller size and profile.

You can find new vans and used vans on the Auto Trader marketplace available for competitive prices with a variety of payment methods to choose from.