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Medium van

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Small electric van

Medium electric van

Large electric van

Pick-up truck

Van-based MPV

Campervan

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Van and Commercial Vehicle Awards 2024

The Ford Transit Custom has long topped sales charts, and the latest version deserves to continue that dominance, thanks to its blend of practicality and driving enjoyment



Ford Transit Custom

Small Van

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<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Go-anywhere capability</li> <li>Work-ready load bay</li> <li>Robust, durable yet also pleasant interior</li> <li>Commanding driving position</li> <li>Heavyweight towing capacity</li></ul>

The popularity of pick-up trucks is growing in the UK, thanks in part to a fixed-rate company car tax for business users, due to them being categorised as light commercial vehicles.

But it's not just those savings to your wallet that makes the pick-up a compelling buy; incredibly durability, huge towing capacity and the surprising about of technology available means the majority are worthy for much more than just working on building sites.&nbsp;

Pick-up

A staple of British holidaymakers, camper vans come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, but are usually based on existing commercial vehicles. Camper vans will have been modified to make them more comfortable for extended use, and often come with extra amenities including cooking facilities, a sleeping area and, in some cases, a toilet or shower.

Camper van

We've named the best vans and commercial vehicles for every need and budget, plus our overall Van of the Year

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Citroën is probably most famous for its quirky design, and the latest cars from the brand live up to this tradition. In fact, it&nbsp;tends to keep away from sportiness altogether and instead tries to put comfort first.

Value (but not cheapness) is also key to the appeal of most Citroëns. And the company’s range includes everything from a tiny EV (the Ami) through to the C3 small hatchback and&nbsp;the large van-based&nbsp;Spacetourer MPV.

Its range of SUVs are all badged Aircross, and like the rest of its range place emphasis on comfort, not speed.

CITROEN

Modern Fiats fall into two categories: the retro models and those with more functional designs.

Cars in the first camp appeal to the heart and include the 124 Spider sports car and the 500 series: a hatchback, a convertible, an SUV and two MPVs.

By contrast, the remaining models rely on their practicality and attractive pricing, with the Panda city car, Tipo hatchback and Fullback pick-up truck all prime examples.

Fiat can trace its roots back to the 19th century but is now part of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles group, along with Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Jeep and Maserati.

FIAT

Ford builds some of the most popular cars in the UK, including the Fiesta and Focus hatchbacks.

This success is partly down to longevity and the fact that there’s a Ford dealer around every corner. However, it’s also because Fords tend to offer good value and be among the best cars in their respective classes to drive.

The company’s huge range also helps; it offers everything from the small – but surprisingly practical – Ka+ to the large and lavishly equipped Edge SUV.

Meanwhile, other highlights of the range include the S-Max and Galaxy people carriers, the Mondeo executive car and the Ranger pick-up.

FORD

If you’re in the market for a pick-up truck, chances are you’ll have heard of Isuzu. The Japanese brand makes buses and lorries for markets all over the world, but it’s most famous for the D-Max.

A rival to the Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara and Volkswagen Amarok, the D-Max pick-up is aimed at drivers who need rugged go-anywhere ability and lots of space, and for whom a conventional SUV just won’t cut it.

ISUZU

Iveco

LEVC

MAXUS

Mercedes’ line-up is vast – ranging from the A-Class family hatchback through to staple saloons such as the C-Class and E-Class, and onwards towards multiple SUVs, luxury saloons and even sports cars. Coupés and convertibles are thrown into the mix as well.

As one of the ‘big three’ German brands, Mercedes most often finds itself competing with Audi and BMW but more recently has found itself fending off Jaguar and Volvo, too.

Mercedes models are known for comfort. One example of this is the E-Class, because while the Audi A6 has a plusher interior and the BMW 5 Series handles better, the E-Class is probably the most comfortable for a long motorway journey.

MERCEDES-BENZ

Nissan turned up early to the SUV party, with its Qashqai paving the way for the countless models we see today. The Qashqai continues to sell in big numbers in the UK, too, and was also our overall Car of the Year in 2014.

Don’t think Nissan is just about SUVs, though. As well as the Qashqai, the smaller Juke and the larger X-Trail, the Japanese brand has the Micra hatchback, GT-R sports car and Navara pick-up truck.

Nissan was also one of the first big car makers to launch a fully electric car, with its latest Leaf being one of the best on the market.

Despite being based in Japan, Nissan has long committed to building cars in the UK, making several of its best-selling models at a huge factory in Sunderland.

NISSAN

Peugeot has its strongest model line-up for some years, with some of its cars now rated by our testers as being among the very best available.

Highlights focus around the firm’s newest SUVs, the 3008 and 5008. The 5008 was named Large SUV of the Year at the 2018 What Car? Awards, thanks to its appealing blend of space, interior quality and low running costs.

That bodes well for future launches, too, because many of the learnings from these cars will be passed on as new versions of existing cars are launched – something that could take many years, because the Peugeot range is so big, ranging from an entry-level supermini with the 108 to an executive saloon with the 508, up into the SUV range and also vans.

Buyers should evaluate some of the lower-rated cars in the range more carefully, though. Some are now quite old, and are subsequently left behind in terms of quality when compared with the opposition, making them below-average buys, in our estimation.

PEUGEOT

Hatchbacks, SUVs, hybrids, electric cars: Renault makes them all, in a variety of shapes and sizes, meaning&nbsp;it has a line-up designed to tempt pretty much everyone.

From the roadside, the standout feature of all its cars is design, with them instantly recognisable as members of the Renault family, without being so similar that they fall&nbsp;into the Russian doll trap. However, in terms of ability they're a mixed bag,&nbsp;ranging&nbsp;from very good to no better than average.

Models that fall into the former camp include the Clio small hatchback and Megane E-Tech electric car, while the smaller Zoe electric car is also impressive in most respects; it's just a pity Renault omits key safety kit.

On the other hand, the Captur, Arkana and Austral SUVs are all outclassed by several rivals.

Renault has some exciting new models planned, including a new Scenic (this time it will be an electric SUV instead of a conventionally powered MPV) and two cars that reimagine classic Renaults: the 4 and 5.

RENAULT

Suzuki is well known as a motorcycle manufacturer, but the car brand has been enjoying decent success in recent years, thanks to a line-up of neat, well-equipped and keenly priced models.

Its expertise focuses on smaller cars, although its high-riding SUV range is also hugely credible, especially the Ignis and Vitara, which are both rated highly by What Car?’s testers and which have enjoyed success at the What Car? Awards as a result.

Well priced, decent to drive and full of useful tech, Suzuki’s cars also generally stand out for delivering good fuel economy. The Ignis, Celerio and Baleno have all stood head and shoulders above the competition during our True MPG testing.

SUZUKI

Toyota is a company undergoing a quiet revolution, as it works hard to replace its sensible but somewhat bland reputation with one for being a bit more daring, in areas such as the styling of its cars and its enthusiastic leadership of cutting-edge technology, such as hybrid systems.

That process seems to be working for buyers, with the hugely popular and striking-looking C-HR SUV in particular attracting a great deal of interest. The latest version of the hybrid Prius is also rated highly by What Car?; it’s the first Prius to go on sale that our testers have felt can truly compete all round with existing petrol or diesel rivals.

However, it’s worth noting that this period of transition is also a work in progress, and that many of the firm’s cars are still rated as being no more than average among class rivals by our testers.

TOYOTA

Vauxhall has an incredibly diverse range of cars on sale, a few of which stand out above the class average. Add in the fact that it still offers some of the largest Target Price discounts in the market (something it is trying, without huge success, to cut back on), and there are very good reasons to consider buying one of its better models.

However, you need to choose carefully, because it is also a brand in transition. It has a newish parent company – the same one that owns Citroën, DS and Peugeot. And while Vauxhall’s newer models tend to be competitive, some of the others feel dated; a quick check of our star ratings will reveal which is which.

Still, given the recent success of sister brands Citroën and especially Peugeot, each new launch should make its range more appealing to buyers.

VAUXHALL

The VW Group famously spends more money on research and development than any rival – and as a result, perhaps it should be no surprise that our testers rate its cars so consistently highly.

The fact that many of those cars use the same underpinnings also helps, because it means that if they get it right once, they have the foundations to keep on getting it right.

However, the Volkswagen brand faces plenty of tough competition, often from within, because the rapidly rising Seat and Skoda brands that are also part of the group have access to the same technology.

VOLKSWAGEN

City-Car

Estate

Pick-Up

ABT eTRANSPORTER 6.1

AMAROK

BERLINGO CV

BOXER

CADDY

CADDY CALIFORNIA

CALIFORNIA

Citan

COMBO CARGO

Combo Cargo 4x4

CRAFTER

D-MAX

Daily

Daily Electric

DISPATCH

DOBLO

DUCATO

e-Berlingo

e-Boxer

e-Crafter

E DELIVER 3

E Deliver 9

E-Ducato

e-NV200

e-Partner

e-Relay

e-Sprinter

E-Transit

eCitan

eDeliver 7

Expert

FULLBACK

GRAND CALIFORNIA

HILUX

ID Buzz Cargo

Jimny

Kangoo

Kangoo E-Tech

Master

Master E-Tech

Movano

Movano Electric

Musso

NV200

NV300

NV400

Partner

Proace

ProAce City

Proace City Electric

RANGER

Relay (2019)

SPRINTER

T90 EV

Talento

Townstar

Trafic

TRANSIT

TRANSIT CONNECT

Transit Courier

TRANSIT CUSTOM

Transit Nugget

TRANSPORTER

V CLASS

VITO

VIVARO

Vivaro-e

X-CLASS

With five near-identical <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-electric-vans/n21136">electric vans</a> to choose from, it’s surprising that the Vauxhall Combo Cargo Electric&nbsp;is noticeably more expensive than some others in the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-stellantis/n26975">Stellantis stable</a>. While the differences in price tags are relatively small, it's definitely worth speaking to a Citroën or Peugeot dealer about the twin vans.

On the plus side, the Combo Electric comfortably undercuts the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/ecitan/van/review/n26086">Mercedes eCitan</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/nissan/townstar/van/review/n26092">Nissan Townstar EV</a>, as well as the larger <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/maxus/e-deliver-3/van/review/n22665">Maxus eDeliver 3</a>.

Stepping up from entry-level Prime trim to Pro adds a couple of thousand pounds to the price, but owner-operators might favour the extra equipment and comfort that comes with the higher specification. It also means there’ll be fewer options to pick, as the Pro’s specification is comprehensive.&nbsp;

When the battery runs low, the Combo Cargo Electric can be topped up with a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/fastest-charging-electric-cars/n26105">maximum charging speed</a> of up to&nbsp;100kW – twice the rate of the previous (Combo-e) model, and fast enough to give you a 0-80% charge in about half an hour. The onboard charger, meanwhile, is a 7kW unit compatible with most home charger sockets, giving a 100% charge in under eight hours, ensuring the van will be fully charged every morning.

All Combo Cargo Electrics come with a three-year, 100,000-mile warranty, alongside&nbsp;an&nbsp;eight-year warranty on the battery. <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals/make/vauxhall">Vauxhall</a> expects to see the vehicle for servicing every two years or 25,000 miles. Warranty cover is the same for the Citroen, Fiat and Peugeot versions. Mercedes and Renault cover their vans for three years and at least 100,000 miles, while Nissan extends it to five years.

The standout is the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/proace-city-electric/van/review/n23710">Toyota Proace City Electric</a>, which is&nbsp;covered for up to 10 years (you need to use an official centre for servicing).&nbsp;You pay more for the van and there’s still a 100,000-mile limit, but the extended coverage is great for small businesses or owner-operators who cover fewer miles.

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Under the Vauxhall Combo Cargo Electric's&nbsp;stubby bonnet is a 134bhp electric motor powered by a new 50kWh battery pack. Thanks&nbsp;to efficiency gains, it can officially run for up to 205 miles on a single charge.

You'll get similar ranges from equivalent <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-stellantis/n26975">Stellantis</a> small&nbsp;electric vans, while the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/kangoo-e-tech/van/review/n20116">Renault Kangoo E-Tech</a> and its Mercedes and Nissan equivalents make do with a smaller 45kWh battery and a 176-mile range.

Three drive modes – Eco, Normal and Power – help to balance efficiency with performance, but you’ll only get close to the 205-mile target in the constrained Eco mode. That cuts power by 40%, encouraging gentler driving.

Even in Eco mode, performance off the line is strong, making it suitable for urban use. Combined with three levels of <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-regenerative-braking-and-how-does-it-work/n25212">regenerative braking</a>&nbsp;that can slow the van to a crawl, it’s an efficient and easy way to move loads around the city.

It’s definitely less efficient on the open road, where using more performance means using more battery. The energy recovery takes a hit&nbsp;too, as the strongest setting doesn’t work well on flowing tarmac.

It’s there you’ll notice how comfortable the Combo Cargo Electric is – although that's perhaps unsurprising because it shares underpinnings with&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/308/hatchback/review/n17380">Peugeot 308</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/c4/hatchback/review/n22373">Citroën C4</a>&nbsp;(among others). It’s not quite as smooth as a car,&nbsp;but soaks up crashy surfaces and broken road facings well. The steering is light and precise, and it handles well both laden and unladen.

It can’t quite match the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/ecitan/van/review/n26086">Mercedes eCitan</a> for handing, but Mercedes achieves that by sacrificing comfort. The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/nissan/townstar/van/review/n26092">Nissan Townstar EV</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/kangoo-e-tech/van/review/n20116">Renault Kangoo E-Tech</a> have a different suspension set-up, which moves the needle the other way, making them closer in feel to the Combo.

As an urban delivery van, the Combo Cargo Electric ticks a lot of boxes. Now, with its longer range, it’s also much more practical for those who occasionally venture beyond the city limits.

The new Vauxhall Combo Cargo Electric arrives as demand for compact electric vans is flattening out a little, so it needs to be good to win over buyers. Indeed, this&nbsp;electric version of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/combo-cargo/van/review/n18391">Vauxhall Combo van</a> is not alone in getting a refresh.

As part of the Europe-wide <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-stellantis/n26975">Stellantis Group</a>, it shares its body panels, motors, battery, underpinnings and interior trim with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/e-berlingo/van/review/n23712">Citroën ë-Berlingo</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/fiat/doblo/van/review/n26658">Fiat e-Doblo</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/e-partner/van/review/n23711">Peugeot e-Partner</a>. There’s also the identical <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/proace-city-electric/van/review/n23710">Toyota Proace City Electric</a>, which is built under a joint-venture agreement.

Combined, Stellantis sells more <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-electric-vans/n21136">electric vans</a> than its rivals, but then its rivals are few and far between. The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/ecitan/van/review/n26086">Mercedes eCitan</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/nissan/townstar/van/review/n26092">Nissan Townstar EV</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/kangoo-e-tech/van/review/n20116">Renault Kangoo E-Tech</a>&nbsp;– which all share parts – are&nbsp;impressive alternatives to the Combo Cargo Electric. There's the larger and more expensive <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/maxus/e-deliver-3/van/review/n22665">Maxus eDeliver 3</a> too.

The 2024 Combo Electric van – previously called the Combo-e – gets significant improvements to the battery and motor, increasing the overall range to just over 200 miles (according to <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/wltp-meaning-official-economy-emissions/n1223">WLTP test results</a>). Beyond the electric parts, there’s a new nose&nbsp;and a few changes to the bumper's shape, while inside&nbsp;there’s a new, larger <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment screen</a>&nbsp;and, on some models, a digital instrument panel for the driver.

Read on to find out how we rate the new Vauxhall Combo Cargo Electric against the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-electric-vans/n21136">best electric vans</a>...

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/how-we-test-vans-at-what-car/n26797">Read more: How we test vans</a>

There are two trim levels on the Vauxhall Combo Cargo Electric –&nbsp;and it’s clear which one is aimed at fleet managers: the&nbsp;entry-level Prime models, which gets the basics but not much else.

There is air conditioning, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-cruise-control-and-should-you-have-it-on-your-next-car/n26822">cruise control</a>, heated door mirrors, parking sensors, automatic lights and a load of safety tech, but no <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment touchscreen</a>. Instead Prime trim includes a&nbsp;"smartphone station" – a solid clamp for a phone in the middle of the dashboard.

If you download a Vauxhall app to your phone, you can use it for&nbsp;navigation, streaming audio&nbsp;and to monitor&nbsp;driving efficiency. Most will, of course, use their own music and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-sat-nav-apps/n24915">sat-nav apps</a>&nbsp;instead. The lack of a touchscreen does mean there are physical controls for heating and ventilation –&nbsp;good news for usability.

The other trim option is called Pro, and&nbsp;gets you Vauxhall’s Multimedia Pro Navi <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment system</a>, with a 10in touchscreen with built-in sat-nav and voice recognition.&nbsp;The driver's display is upgraded to a 10in digital screen.

You also get a Dynamic Surround View system, which projects a view from the back of the van and both sides to a digital rear-view mirror. It’s a helpful system when it comes to changing lanes and driving in traffic, but judging distances is harder than with a real mirror. Reverse parking manoeuvres are best conducted using the mirrors and parking sensors to judge distance accurately.

The Pro also gets adaptive, glare-free Intellilux&nbsp;matrix LED headlights, which automatically cut out oncoming road users from their beams, ensuring drivers have a clear view ahead without dazzling others. No other Stellantis <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-small-vans/n20723">small van</a> has that feature, and it’s superb if you do a lot of driving at night.

Prime models get plenty of space inside, but that’s because there are only two seats. For a two-person bench seat on the passenger side, you’ll need the Pro model, which also has the advantage of secure under-seat storage.

Interior space is similar among all the compact <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-electric-vans/n21136">electric vans</a> on the market, but the Combo Cargo Electric feels more spacious than the eCitan, Townstar and Kangoo because of its&nbsp;more upright windscreen.

The electric version of the Combo small van has a decent range and excellent practicality

New Vauxhall Combo Electric van

The Vauxhall Combo Cargo Electric is available in two body lengths for the UK market: regular and XL.

The regular van is as compact as a mid-size hatchback at 4.4m long, while the XL is 4.75m. The extra 35cm of the XL van adds 20% to the load volume, taking it from 3.3m3 to 3.9m3.

The Combo Cargo Electric shares the honours for best-in-class load volumes with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/ecitan/van/review/n26086">Mercedes eCitan</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/nissan/townstar/van/review/n26092">Nissan Townstar EV</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/kangoo-e-tech/van/review/n20116">Renault Kangoo E-Tech</a>. The Combo (and related&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-stellantis/n26975">Stellantis vans</a>) tops the table for the shorter models, matching its rivals, but the Kangoo-based trio beat the XL model by 0.3m3.

Load lengths vary by insignificant amounts, with the differences between the Combo and rival <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-electric-vans/n21136">electric vans</a> no more than a couple of centimetres.

Payload limits reach as high as 781kg, which tops every one of its rivals, bar the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/maxus/e-deliver-3/van/review/n22665">Maxus eDeliver 3</a> with its 945kg capability. That’s still significantly less than the diesel-powered <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/combo-cargo/van/review/n18391">Vauxhall Combo Cargo</a> can carry, of course.

The standard body has a single sliding side-loading door and barn-style double doors at the back. There’s plenty of room for a couple of Euro pallets, and 10 lashing points to keep them secure. The XL models get a second sliding door.

A basic Crew Van is available on XL Prime models, which gives up a large chunk of its cargo area to seating, leaving you with just 1.8m3, but with the ability to move six people around.

There’s never been a bigger choice of small electric vans, and the Vauxhall Combo Cargo Electric is one of the best. It’s competitively priced, well-equipped, great to drive and backed by a substantial dealer network. However, if you're a small business user and keep vehicles beyond a three-year lease cycle, it's also worth considering the Toyota Proace City Electric for its much longer maximum warranty.

The Ford Transit Connect is priced very close to its small van "twin", the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/caddy/van/review/n18482">VW Caddy Cargo</a>. You’ll pay less to jump from the short to long-wheelbase Transit Connect than you would with the Caddy Cargo, but there’s a significant jump in price for the FlexCab versions.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that some equivalent versions of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/berlingo-cv/van/review/n18480">Citroën Berlingo Van</a> and the mechanically identical <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/partner/van/review/n20209">Peugeot Partner</a> cost less.

Official fuel economy figures of between 48.8 and 52.1mpg put diesel-powered versions of the Transit Connect roughly on par with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/kangoo/van/review/n18460">Renault Kangoo</a>&nbsp;and other <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-small-vans/n20723">small vans</a>. The plug-in hybrid (<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/plug-in-hybrid-cars/n22743">PHEV</a>) delivers official fuel economy figures of up to a whopping 586.3mpg. That's only remotely achievable&nbsp;if you charge up the PHEV battery whenever it runs down.

There are three trims available for the Transit Custom, starting with entry-level Trend –&nbsp;which we think is the best choice. It comes with traffic-sign recognition, front and rear parking sensors, a 10in <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment touchscreen</a>, a 10.25in digital driver's display, sat-nav and a heated windscreen.&nbsp;

Limited adds some exterior and interior styling tweaks, a handy fold-flat passenger seat that doubles as a work surface, wireless phone-charging, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-cruise-control-and-should-you-have-it-on-your-next-car/n26822">adaptive cruise control</a>&nbsp;(on automatics only), blind-spot assist, heated and power-folding door mirrors, and a rear-view camera.

Active models look a little more rugged, but aside from anti-dazzle adaptive LED headlights, the FlexCab-only model is pricey and tricky to recommend.

Options worth considering are the more supportive seats, glazed rear and side doors, ply lining and tow bars (with or without a system to help when you're reversing). It's also worth looking at the&nbsp;well-priced Driver Assistance Pack, which includes intelligent <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-cruise-control-and-should-you-have-it-on-your-next-car/n26822">cruise control</a>, lane-change assistance and self-parking.

Ford has partnered with security firm TVL to provide a range of factory-fitted security features, which will grow to include deadlocks, reinforcing panels and anti-drill locks. You get a Thatcham-rated alarm and immobiliser as standard.

<h2 dir="ltr">“I think the standard three years or 60,000 miles warranty is rather average, although it can be extended to four years or 100,000 miles.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/stuart-milne/n25965">Stuart Milne, Digital Editor</a></h2>

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Being car-like to drive has long been an impressive accolade for any van, but the Ford Transit Connect goes one step further – by sharing underpinnings with not just the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/golf/hatchback/review/n17371">VW Golf</a> but also the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/audi/tt/coupe/used-review/n814">Audi TT</a>&nbsp;(yes, really). And for a van, it drives really rather well.

The steering is responsive and precise – although for the avoidance of doubt a Golf is better in both regards. It soaks up bumps and potholes well, and there’s surprisingly little body roll, both of which are helped by the adoption of more sophisticated coil spring rear suspension. With that technology, its ride should be good regardless of the load weight in the back.

Buyers can choose between a pair of 2.0-litre diesel engines, producing either 101 or 120bhp, or a petrol plug-in hybrid (<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/plug-in-hybrid-cars/n22743">PHEV</a>). No Transit Connect <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-electric-vans/n21136">electric van</a> is planned – the closest you'll find in the Ford range is the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/ford-e-transit-courier-electric-van/n25652">Ford E-Transit Courier</a>.

The diesel engines are a little grumbly when starting, but are refined elsewhere and provide plenty of punch on the move, although the 101bhp version requires fairly frequent gear changes to stay in the power. We’ve yet to drive the PHEV.

All models have front-wheel drive as standard, but the 120bhp diesel engine is also available with <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/4x4s-for-off-roading/n26188">four-wheel drive</a>. Your choice of gearbox is governed by which engine you choose. The 101bhp diesel comes with a six-speed <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/which-cars-come-with-a-manual-gearbox/n26678">manual gearbox</a> while&nbsp;the 120bhp version and the PHEV have&nbsp;a seven-speed automatic.

The manual has a positive action, and we’ve tried the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022">automatic gearbox</a> in the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/tourneo-connect/estate/review/n17334">Ford Tourneo Connect</a>&nbsp;(the Transit Connect's MPV equivalent), and it delivered quick, snappy shifts, although it can be jerky at low speeds. Even so, it should make stop-start urban deliveries that little bit easier.

There’s a touch more road noise than you might expect, so it’s a good thing those extra gears help to reduce road noise.&nbsp;

The Transit Connect PHEV shares the same 1.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor as the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/caddy/van/review/n18482">VW Caddy Cargo</a> for a combined 148bhp. The 19.7kWh (usable capacity) battery officially&nbsp;allows between 71.5 and 73.8 miles of electric driving.

Charging speeds match the Caddy, with around four hours from a 7kW <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-home-ev-chargers/n25830">home wall box charger</a>&nbsp;or around 30 minutes from a fast&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/electric-car-charging-networks-rated/n23269">public charger</a>. Its 50kW <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/fastest-charging-electric-cars/n26105">maximum charging rate</a> is unusually fast for a PHEV.

<h2 dir="ltr">“On narrow urban streets, the Transit Connect felt smaller and more wieldy than I would’ve expected. Good news for delivery work and trades.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/stuart-milne/n25965">Stuart Milne, Digital Editor</a></h2>

It’s not often that a&nbsp;vehicle model is so iconic that it spawns a family&nbsp;of versions sharing a name – but the Ford Transit Connect is part of one such dynasty.

The Transit Connect van is the second-smallest spin-off from&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/transit/van/review/n18188">Ford Transit</a> – although this time round it's built by Volkswagen and is, under the skin, virtually identical to the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/caddy/van/review/n18482">VW Caddy Cargo</a>. Not that you’d notice: each has its own distinct looks.

For the owner-operator, there’s a side benefit&nbsp;because the Transit Connect shares its underpinnings with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/golf/hatchback/review/n17371">VW Golf</a>. So, as with the&nbsp;Golf and Caddy Cargo, there's a good choice of engines – including a petrol <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/plug-in-hybrid-cars/n22743">plug-in hybrid</a> – and you can have a manual or automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive.

The choice doesn't end there. There's a Transit Connect&nbsp;Active with more rugged looks, plus a FlexCab model with a moveable bulkhead and three fold-down seats in the back.

All that sounds great, but is it enough to help the Ford Transit Connect win out in the&nbsp;very competitive <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-small-vans/n20723">small van class</a>, where you'll find a whole fleet of rivals, ranging from the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/berlingo-cv/van/review/n18480">Citroën Berlingo Van</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/partner/van/review/n20209">Peugeot Partner</a> to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/citan/van/review/n20256">Mercedes Citan</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/kangoo/van/review/n18460">Renault Kangoo</a>?&nbsp;Read on to find out...

While you’ll be hard pressed to spot the similarities between the Ford Transit Connect and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/caddy/van/review/n18482">VW Caddy Cargo</a>&nbsp;from the outside, there are far more recognisable bits&nbsp;inside.

That’s good news, because both share a modern look and a high-quality feel – although the piano-black trim is likely to quickly succumb to fingerprints and scratches in daily use, and it has a habit of reflecting bright sunlight.

The Transit Connect's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment system</a> is a lightly revised version of the Caddy's set-up. It’s a little laggy in operations and slightly clunky to use, especially because there are no physical controls for the temperature, meaning you’ll need to battle with fiddly touch-sensitive sliders instead.

That could be a particular irritation for drivers who wear gloves, and those who frequently have greasy or grubby hands will quickly dirty the controls. At least Ford has retained physical buttons for the audio volume on the steering wheel and some air-con settings on the centre console.

All versions of the Transit Connect come with a DAB radio, voice control and sat-nav, plus <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/what-is-android-auto/n1194">Android Auto</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/what-is-apple-carplay/n1193">Apple CarPlay</a> smartphone mirroring. However, while there are a couple of USB-C ports, there are no USB-A sockets, meaning you'll&nbsp;need to buy an adaptor&nbsp;to connect some devices.

Like the Caddy –&nbsp;but unlike the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/kangoo/van/review/n18460">Renault Kangoo</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;all Transit Connects come with a digital information display, which shows a range of features, including the sat-nav. It’s crisp and easy to operate with the steering wheel-mounted buttons.

It’s not hard to get comfy behind the wheel, because the seats provide a wide range of adjustment&nbsp;and have adjustable lumbar support. The steering wheel has a good range of movement for reach and rake on all models. It’s a shame, then, that armrests are only available in option packs, which also include more supportive seats (accredited by Germany’s Healthy Back Campaign).

<h2>“I love the row of big, physical buttons above the centre console to max the air-con. That’ll be handy when the weather is particularly hot or cold.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/stuart-milne/n25965">Stuart Milne, Digital Editor</a></h2>

The 2024 Transit Connect is an impressive small van with a wide range of engines and configurations

New Ford Transit Connect

As you might expect from <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals/make/ford">Ford</a>, the Transit Connect is available in a wide range of body styles. You get standard and long-wheelbase models, both available with fixed or moveable bulkheads.

The moveable bulkhead version is called the FlexCab, and allows you to choose between two seats with more cargo space, or three extra drop-down seats for extra passenger capacity.

In any configuration, there’s space for a Euro pallet, making the Transit Connect a&nbsp;usefully functional van. All models measure 2,100mm wide (including door mirrors) so they're wieldy on narrow streets. The short-wheelbase model is 4,500mm&nbsp;long, providing a load space measuring 1,797mm long, 1,628mm wide and 1,272mm tall.

Long-wheelbase versions are stretched to an overall length of 4,853mm. The load space is 2,150mm long, and the width and height are virtually identical to the shorter model. FlexCab versions can vary the load space by 516mm depending on the position of the bulkhead.

All of that adds up to a total volume of 3.1m3 for the short-wheelbase and 3.7m3 for the longer van. As you'd expected&nbsp;those figures match the closely related&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/caddy/van/review/n18482">VW Caddy Cargo</a>.

However, you get more storage space in the equivalent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/kangoo/van/review/n18460">Renault Kangoo</a>&nbsp;and all models in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-stellantis/n26975">Stellantis</a>&nbsp;small-van quartet (the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/berlingo-cv/van/review/n18480">Citroën Berlingo Van</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/partner/van/review/n20209">Peugeot Partner</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/proace-city/van/review/n22091">Toyota Proace City</a> and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/combo-cargo/van/review/n18391">Vauxhall Combo Cargo</a>).

The Transit Connect has, depending on engine and wheelbase length, a payload capacity ranging from&nbsp;706 to 793kg, which is more than almost any version of the Caddy Cargo –&nbsp;although it’s worth remembering that versions of the Berlingo, Partner, Proace City and Combo Cargo can carry more than a tonne.

There’s no shortage of tie-down points in the load area, and the 12-volt power supply is useful&nbsp;too. We found the load area well lit, and the doors are easy to open and shut.

The short-wheelbase version has a single 703mm kerbside side door, while the long-wheelbase gets two side doors measuring 846mm. The doors can be glazed as an option, as can the rear cargo door and bulkhead.

As for <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/awards/tow-car-awards">towing ability</a>, most versions of the Transit Connect can pull a 1,500kg braked trailer (750kg unbraked), which is competitive in the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-small-vans/n20723">small van class</a>.

There’s a decent amount of storage in the passenger compartment, including a large shelf above the windscreen with slits to make it easier to see from the front seats what’s in there.

You'll find more storage on top of the dashboard, plus large door pockets and a hidden storage cubby in the centre console. There are handy&nbsp;coat hooks on the bulkhead, but we found the glovebox a bit small.

<h2 dir="ltr">“Glazed side doors might make it easier to pull out of junctions at oblique angles, although I didn’t find it any less tricky than in other small vans.” – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/stuart-milne/n25965">Stuart Milne, Digital Editor</a></h2>

The Ford Transit Connect is a fine small van offering a relaxed driving experience and will appeal particularly to owner-operators. However, rivals such as the Renault Kangoo have larger payload capacities and are available as fully electric vans.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Usefully long electric-only range</li> <li>Exceedingly frugal</li> <li>Cheap company car tax rates</li> <li>Smooth switching between electric and petrol power</li></ul>

If you're not ready to commit to a fully electric vehicle&nbsp;but have the capacity to charge your car at home or at work, a plug-in hybrid could be the perfect compromise. Electric batteries paired with a petrol or diesel&nbsp;engine means you'll never be left short of charge&nbsp;but can capitalise on cheap running costs, thanks to a surprisingly long electric-only range.

There's plenty of choice, too, whether you're after a sporty saloon like the BMW 3 Series, the 330e variant of which providing up to 36 miles of electric-only driving on a full charge, or a large load-lugging large SUV, including the Volvo XC90 T8, which claims an extraordinary&nbsp;113mpg.

Throw in competent handling and driving prowess, despite the added weight of the electric batteries, and a plug-in hybrid&nbsp;makes a compelling case for frugal buyers.&nbsp;

Plug-in hybrid

The Ford Transit is priced broadly in line with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/sprinter/van/review/n18217">Mercedes Sprinter</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/crafter/van/review/n18277">VW Crafter</a>, which means it's not particularly cheap to buy. That said, servicing and maintenance costs for the Transit should be lower than those of the German competition.

The entry-level trim is called&nbsp;Leader and comes&nbsp;with <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">touchscreen infotainment</a>, steering-wheel controls, a DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity and USB and auxiliary ports.

Mid-spec&nbsp;Trend – which is our recommended trim – adds air-con, sat-nav, parking sensors and automatic wipers and headlights, plus a leather-effect steering wheel and gear knob.

The range-topping Limited model gets you&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-cruise-control-and-should-you-have-it-on-your-next-car/n26822">adaptive cruise control</a>, a digital rear-view mirror, powerful HID headlights&nbsp;and some swish alloy wheels.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals/make/ford">Ford</a> makes a lot of noise about the Transit’s safety features, which include Hill Start Assist, Emergency Brake Warning&nbsp;and Electronic Dynamic Cornering Control. It also features Load Adaptive Control, which adjusts the electronic stability control based on the van's weight.

The Transit comes with other advanced systems such as&nbsp;Pre-Collision Assist with <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-aeb-and-how-does-it-work/n3283">Autonomous Emergency Braking</a>, and lane-keeping assistance to help avoid an accident. Optional driver assistance packs offer a Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-cruise-control-and-should-you-have-it-on-your-next-car/n26822">adaptive cruise control</a> with lane-centring.

A driver’s airbag is standard, while passenger and pillar airbags are available as cost options. If you can afford a little more again, the Driver Assistance Pack, which includes a rear-view camera and Lane Keeping Alert, also represents money well spent.

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The Ford Transit is available with a&nbsp;range of 2.0-litre diesel engines, tweaked slightly and now delivering 103bhp, 129bhp, or 163bhp, depending on spec.

You can have front, rear and even <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/4x4s-for-off-roading/n26188">all-wheel-drive</a>, all with a six-speed <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/which-cars-come-with-a-manual-gearbox/n26678">manual gearbox</a> as standard. The popular 10-speed <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022">automatic gearbox</a> option lives on for some models, but a new eight-speed automatic has been added for front-wheel-drive vans.

Despite its size, the Transit is a great driver's van, thanks to its responsive steering and impressively compliant suspension. It’s pretty heavy, which adds to the feeling that you’re driving a big vehicle, but once you get used to the bulk, it's pretty agile.

Stiffer suspension than Transits of old ensures that the van corners better, and helps to limit body lean if you go into a bend a little too quickly. It’s a much more engaging large van to drive than the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/sprinter/van/review/n18217">Mercedes Sprinter</a>, although it's not as smooth over bumps. The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/movano-2019/van/review/n22215">Vauxhall Movano</a> is in a much lower league, feeling like a van a couple of generations behind.

The Transit's firm suspension can result in some bouncing around, particularly when unladen, but when you add some weight – even a small amount –&nbsp;it settles down. Considering most drivers will spend most of their time carrying a load of some description, we think this won't be a big concern.

Of the three engines on offer (we’re not counting the electric motors of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/e-transit/van/review/n24074">Ford E-Transit</a>) we’d recommend the 103bhp entry-level model for its overall performance. Because of the low-down torque on offer, it has a more than adequate oomph, even for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-large-vans/n20727">large van</a>.

If you're going to maximise the payload of a van with a 3.5-tonne or greater gross vehicle weight, though, one of the higher outputs will be necessary, with the 129bhp engine offering a fine balance. It’s no rocket ship, but the 163bhp unit adds yet more power and, with it, more performance.

The six-speed <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/which-cars-come-with-a-manual-gearbox/n26678">manual gearbox</a> is a little notchy and requires a firm hand to find each gear. A long sixth gear makes the Transit well suited to motorway driving&nbsp;though, with little engine noise at cruising speed.

The Ford Transit has been an icon in the van market since it was launched in 1965 and has held an unprecedented grip on the title of best-selling van in the UK.

These days, though,&nbsp;the&nbsp;Transit's name is&nbsp;used on several other models (the Transit Custom, Transit Connect and Transit Courier), plus two all-electric vans, the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/e-transit/van/review/n24074">Ford E-Transit</a> and the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/transit-custom/van/review/n26974">Ford E-Transit Custom</a>. So to be clear, this review&nbsp;is all about the diesel-powered Ford Transit large van.

It's been around in its present form for 10 years, with engine and styling updates in 2019 plus a 2024 update that&nbsp;includes a long list of new driver-centric technology to make the working day easier. The refreshed interior has a new <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment system</a> taking centre stage, along with other refinements.

Although it's the UK’s best-selling large van, the Transit faces stiff competition from the van world’s other big household name, the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/sprinter/van/review/n18217">Mercedes Sprinter</a>. Rivals also range from the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/fiat/ducato/van/review/n18227">Fiat Ducato</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/boxer/van/review/n18206">Peugeot Boxer</a> to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/master-2019-new/van/review/n20295">Renault Master</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/crafter/van/review/n18277">VW Crafter</a>.

Read on to find out whether the new Ford Transit deserves a place among the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-large-vans/n20727">best large vans</a>...

You won’t be short of storage options in the Ford Transit. There are compartments all over the top of the dashboard that will allow you to store all sorts of stuff, but will work particularly well for paperwork and phones.&nbsp;There’s even a USB port there, although there’s no cover to keep valuables&nbsp;hidden from prying eyes.

A spacious overhead shelf will give easy access to anything you want to keep hidden, and there’s also storage under the Transit's passenger seat bench. The glove box provides more concealed storage, and a small compartment on the driver’s door is only accessible when you open it up, so there are plenty of options to keep things secure.

Cup holders for both driver and passenger can be found towards the end of each side of the dashboard, and two large pockets beneath these are suitable for large water bottles, so hydration shouldn’t be an issue.

The only downside is a shortage of small trays and cubby holes for coins and pens. The lower central compartment – probably intended for documents or clipboards – is where you’ll end up stashing most of your small bits and pieces, but retrieving items from there could be tricky.

The Transit has plenty of leg room for the driver and front passengers, including anyone in the centre seat, which isn’t always the case in <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-large-vans/n20727">large vans</a> (the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/movano-2019/van/review/n22215">Vauxhall Movano</a>, for example).

The driver’s seat adjusts in eight different ways, and the steering column is adjustable for both reach and height so you can be properly comfortable. There’s a good range of adjustments, too, so only the unusually tall or short will find any problems.

The Transit's dashboard layout has a neat and stylish aesthetic that feels reasonably close to the interior of a relatively modern car –&nbsp;which is high praise for a van.

A sizeable 12in <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment touchscreen</a> dominates the centre of the dashboard, with an 8in digital driver's display behind the steering wheel.&nbsp;The&nbsp;screen reacts well to finger prods and has crisp and clear graphics.

It’s a smart system, using a 5G modem to offer connected navigation with real-time traffic. Or, of course, you could just plug your phone in and use <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/what-is-android-auto/n1194">Android Auto</a> or <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/what-is-apple-carplay/n1193">Apple CarPlay</a> to mirror your phone's <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-sat-nav-apps/n24915">sat-nav apps</a> and other features.

The 5G modem also means you can connect to the internet, but its primary use is to allow a new level of connectivity through the Ford Pass app. With this, you can monitor all sorts of status information about the Transit and even remotely unlock it. If you share your data with <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals/make/ford">Ford</a>, a team at a control centre in Essex will monitor your van, advising of any potential issues and organising repairs, theoretically keeping downtime to a minimum.

If you’re a courier, the most interesting new upgrade will be the Delivery Assist system. Available on long-wheelbase panel-van variants with an <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022">automatic gearbox</a>, it automates repetitive security tasks for delivery drivers by stopping the engine when in Park, activating the hazard warning lights and alarm, and locking any door the driver doesn’t use. Once the driver is back in the cab, pressing the brake pedal restarts the engine and deactivates the hazard lights.

The Ford Transit just keeps getting better with age, with a 2024 update improving interior tech considerably

New Ford Transit

There’s a range of body weights for the Ford Transit, starting at 3.1 tonnes gross and going up to five tonnes. As you can imagine, with so much variation, there's enormous potential for the Transit van to carry just about anything you want.

Payload limits range wildly, from just under a tonne to close to three tonnes, although you can expect a payload allowance of between 1,100kg and 1,500kg on the core 3.5-tonne models.

The eight-speed <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022">automatic gearbox</a> option increases front-wheel-drive vans' maximum payload by 700kg, and extends its towing capacity by an enormous 1,750kg. A heavy-duty Gross Axle Weight Rating pack boosts the front axle weight from 1,850kg to 2,000kg, offering converters more potential for heavier loads and enhancing safety by improving load distribution for operators running at high weights.

Rear load space dimensions range from lengths of 2,900mm to 4,073mm and roof heights of 1,786mm to 2,125mm. That means the largest Transit van can transport 15.1m3, which makes it smaller than the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/sprinter/van/review/n18217">Mercedes Sprinter</a>&nbsp;(17m3)&nbsp;or the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/crafter/van/review/n18277">VW Crafter</a> (18.4m3). The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/movano-2019/van/review/n22215">Vauxhall Movano</a> and the closely related <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/relay-2019/van/review/n22193">Citroën Relay</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/fiat/ducato/van/review/n18227">Fiat Ducato</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/boxer/van/review/n18206">Peugeot Boxer</a> peak at 17m3.

The single side door’s aperture of 1.3m is the best on the market, although there’s only 5cm between it and a Movano’s side door. The rear doors, meanwhile, open to 180 degrees, but you can specify 270-degree hinges on the largest Transit models. The Trend model gets half-height plywood panelling, with full-height protection as an optional extra.

Interior roof racks are a smart optional addition if you need extra load space options. They can support up to 50kg and can be fixed in different positions inside the van, keeping items such as smaller ladders held securely in the vehicle.

With more than 120 panel-van variants alone (plus campers, minibuses, chassis cabs, tippers, dropside vans and many more) there’s no doubt that the Ford Transit is one of the most flexible large vans on sale. In every area, it’s right up with the best in class, with impressive payloads, performance and technology. It’s a little expensive, but low running costs, Ford’s back-up and strong residuals mean it shouldn't cost any more to own.

The Movano Electric's pricing sits in an interesting space. It costs significantly more than a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/movano-2019/van/review/n22215">diesel Vauxhall Movano</a>&nbsp;but undercuts the likes of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/e-sprinter/van/review/n22228">Mercedes eSprinter</a> while also trumping it on range.

You might wince at its roughly £20,000 premium over the diesel models, but that’s before a government grant that in the UK currently shaves £5,000 off the price. Running costs should be lower too.

"Fuel" savings could be significant, depending on how the van is charged. The Movano Electric's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/fastest-charging-electric-cars/n26105">maximum charging rate</a> is up to 150kW&nbsp;so a rapid charger can top it up from empty to 80% full in under an hour. That’s handy –&nbsp;but also expensive. If you can convince your drivers to plug in at home, off-peak rates could add 100 miles of range for little more than £3.

The one and only trim level, Prime, is well-equipped, and includes traffic-sign recognition, forward collision alert with <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-aeb-and-how-does-it-work/n3283">emergency braking</a>,&nbsp;drowsiness alert, lane-keeping assist&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-cruise-control-and-should-you-have-it-on-your-next-car/n26822">adaptive cruise control</a>.

Blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, 360-degree parking sensors and a digital rear-view mirror are available&nbsp;as part of the optional City Plus Pack.

Every Movano Electric is backed by a three-year, 100,000-mile warranty, which is the same as you’ll find on the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/e-relay/van/review/n24565">Citroën ë-Relay</a>, the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/fiat/e-ducato/van/review/n24557">Fiat e-Ducato</a> and the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/e-boxer/van/review/n24544">Peugeot e-Boxer</a>. The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/e-transit/van/review/n24074">Ford E-Transit</a> doesn’t fare quite as well, with a 60,000-mile limit.

For the maximum warranty, there's Toyota's&nbsp;version of the van – called&nbsp;the Proace Max – which&nbsp;is covered for up to 10 years. There are some catches to beware of, but it might suit those expecting to keep the van a long time.

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One area where the latest Vauxhall Movano Electric really does well is in its electric range and performance.

There’s only one battery option, but it’s a whopping 110kWh unit, and that’s enough to give it an official WLTP range of 261 miles, which is among the best in its class. The <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/e-transit/van/review/n24074">Ford E-Transit</a>&nbsp;promises up to 249 miles, while the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/e-sprinter/van/review/n22228">Mercedes eSprinter</a> can officially manage up to 273 miles.

It is, of course, only half the range of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/movano-2019/van/review/n22215">diesel Vauxhall Movano</a>&nbsp;but it does open up the option of a big&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-electric-vans/n21136">electric van</a> for users who travel long distances.

Our time in the van saw us return 2.3 miles per kWh – the equivalent of 225 miles from the 97.8kWh useable capacity. Not bad at all, although we only had 400kg in the back. An E-Transit returned exactly the same efficiency figure when we last drove one.

Power comes from a 268bhp electric motor – a huge increase of 148bhp over its predecessor. It also has 302lb/ft of instant torque, so it’s swift away from the lights even when fully loaded.

There are three driving modes, with the van starting up in Normal mode, which limits the output to 214bhp. You’ll get the maximum range in Eco, which limits power to 161bhp, while Power&nbsp;mode gives you the full 268bhp, but certainly not the full range (which in real-world driving is likely to be less than the quoted figure anyway).

The three modes provide a lot of flexibility, and Eco&nbsp;is fine for most urban applications. Irrespective of the driving mode, full performance is always available by stamping on the accelerator.

Drivers can also set four levels of <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-regenerative-braking-and-how-does-it-work/n25212">regenerative braking</a> using paddles behind the steering wheel, the most acute of which will slow the van to a near walking pace. It’s pretty intrusive at speed but is great for slow-moving traffic and almost allows for one-pedal driving.

The steering gets lighter at low speeds, making urban manoeuvring easy, but unfortunately the Movano Electric's dated underpinnings are still very apparent when you're on the move.

The steering is&nbsp;vague, and the ride is harsh, crashy and bouncy, feeling&nbsp;very unsettled on broken road surfaces. There’s also a lot of road noise fed into the cabin, and it sounds pretty boomy at speed. Other electrified <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-large-vans/n20727">large vans</a> – such as the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/e-sprinter/van/review/n22228">Mercedes&nbsp;eSprinter</a> and the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/e-transit/van/review/n24074">Ford E-Transit</a> — are much sharper to drive.

One of the proudest boasts made about the new Vauxhall Movano Electric&nbsp;by its manufacturer is that it has wireless smartphone charging as standard.&nbsp;That’s a mark of how far the Movano Electric has come – because when the van it's based on first appeared, you couldn't even buy an iPhone.

You see, when Vauxhall was acquired by <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-stellantis/n26975">Stellantis</a>,&nbsp;the Movano was based on the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/master-2019-new/van/review/n20295">Renault Master</a>. To avoid&nbsp;paying licensing fees to rival Renault, the firm started rebadging&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/relay-2019/van/review/n22193">Citroën Relay</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/boxer/van/review/n18206">Peugeot Boxer</a> vans instead – and so the new Movano Electric is now based on a 2006 model, rather than a 2010 one.

To partly offset that, the Movano Electric (previously known as the Movano-e) has had a significant facelift for 2024. It now has a much bigger battery and almost double the range of earlier versions, plus more power and a lower price.

In principle, then, it's a substantial leap forward over its predecessor, but there’s stiff competition out there. Rivals range from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/e-relay/van/review/n24565">Citroën ë-Relay</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/e-transit/van/review/n24074">Ford E-Transit</a> to the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/e-sprinter/van/review/n22228">Mercedes eSprinter</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/peugeot/e-boxer/van/review/n24544">Peugeot E-Boxer</a>.

Read on to find out how we rate the latest&nbsp;Vauxhall Movano Electric against the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-electric-vans/n21136">best electric vans</a> available...

Inside, you can see where <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-stellantis/n26975">Stellantis</a> has spent money on the Vauxhall Movano Electric. It’s been massively revised, with a far more modern-looking fascia and higher quality materials, while the switchgear is chunky and well-damped.

There’s also a new 7in digital instrument display showing the remaining range and battery charge, with a 10in <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment touchscreen</a> covering all major controls, with TomTom navigation and voice control.

You can plug your phone in and mirror that, using <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/what-is-android-auto/n1194">Android Auto</a> or <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/what-is-apple-carplay/n1193">Apple CarPlay</a>, allowing you to bypass the slightly clunky interface.

You’ll be comfortable with climate control, keyless entry and start, and a two-seater bench for a pair of passengers. And, of course, there’s the inductive wireless smartphone charging pad.

That’s all provided in the Prime trim level – the only trim available. Options worth considering include a dash-mounted mains socket ideal for powering items such as a laptop, and the Eat and Work&nbsp;seat, which&nbsp;turns the simple passenger bench seat into a folding work surface for eating or working on.

To help with parking&nbsp;your Movano Electric there’s a reversing camera included as standard. As an option, you can add a&nbsp;digital rear-view mirror, which shows a camera feed from the back of the van.

There’s plenty of space for the driver and two passengers, and a middle-seat&nbsp;passenger will be grateful that instead of a gearstick vying for space with their legs&nbsp;there's a dash-mounted gear selector.&nbsp;They'll be less impressed by the awkwardly placed cupholders, which are pretty much out of reach of the driver but&nbsp;in the way of the middle passenger's feet.

If you need to store more than coffee, there are 10 additional in-cab storage areas, including a big glovebox, a document clip and multiple lidded compartments on the dash.

It’s a huge – and much-needed – step forward inside that brings the basics of the Movano Electric up to par with rivals, even if it lacks the design modernity of a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/e-transit/van/review/n24074">Ford E-Transit</a>, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/maxus/e-deliver-9/van/review/n24737">Maxus eDeliver 9</a> or the latest&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/master-e-tech/van/review/n20172">Renault Master E-Tech</a>.

The 2024 Movano Electric is an appealing large electric van held back by its poor ride and handling

New Vauxhall Movano Electric

There are a few body options for the&nbsp;Movano Electric (although fewer than for the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/movano-2019/van/review/n22215">diesel Vauxhall Movano</a>).The panel van comes in two body lengths and heights, plus there’s a chassis cab option to appeal to conversion companies.

At its biggest (L4H3), the Movano Electric's cargo volume is&nbsp;17m3, which is significantly larger than the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/e-transit/van/review/n24074">Ford E-Transit</a> (15.3m3).

However, the heaviest payload option (in the L3H2) only reaches 1,460kg, around 300kg behind the eTransit’s best. Even then, there’s a slight catch – the most practical Movano Electrics have a gross vehicle weight of 4.25 tonnes, which means users with a regular car driving licence will need extra training.

<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals/make/vauxhall">Vauxhall</a> will provide a 3.5-tonne version of the Movano Electric in L3H2 form, offering 13m3 of cargo volume but limited to a maximum payload of just 710kg – less weight than you can carry in a compact <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/combo-e/van/review/n23708">Vauxhall Combo Electric</a>.

In panel van form, the load bay lengths vary from 3,705mm to 4,070mm, with a roof height of either 1,932mm or 2,172mm. All versions can accommodate loads up to 1,870mm wide, narrowing to 1,422mm between the wheel arches. That leaves plenty of room for four or five Euro pallets in the back, depending on the body length you choose.

Access is via twin rear doors that swing open to 180 degrees, with an optional extra extending to 270 degrees – helpful if you want to reverse&nbsp;right up to a loading bay. There’s just one side door on the van's nearside, with a second door relegated to the options list.

The Vauxhall Movano Electric is attractively priced and well-equipped with an impressive range and a decent payload, so on paper it's a hugely appealing electric van. Sadly its harsh and bumpy ride, and vague steering feel below par against more modern rivals. If that doesn’t bother you the value for money is quite compelling.

Running your Isuzu D-Max as a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-company-cars/n22605">company car</a> will be affordable because every version is above the required 1,000kg payload threshold that enables you to classify it as a commercial vehicle.

Anyone buying a D-Max out of their own pocket should find that most models undercut the equivalent <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/ranger/4x4/review/n17250">Ford Ranger</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/hilux/pick-up/review/n17270">Toyota Hilux</a> or <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/amarok/pick-up/review/n17220">VW Amarok</a> and cost a little more than the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kgm/musso/estate/review/n17236">KGM Musso</a>. There’s little difference between them in terms of fuel economy.

The D-Max in entry-level Utility trim&nbsp;is rather spartan, with 16in steel wheels and black (rather than painted) exterior trim. You still get the basics, such as air-conditioning, automatic lights and wipers, and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-cruise-control-and-should-you-have-it-on-your-next-car/n26822">cruise control</a>&nbsp;but it's more of a workhorse.

The DL20 has more creature comforts, adding 18in alloy wheels, body-coloured exterior trim, heated front seats and interior carpets.

DL40 adds LED head and tail lights, silver side steps, leather upholstery, electric seat adjustment, keyless entry and dual-zone climate control.

Top-spec V-Cross swaps the chrome exterior trim for grey. If you upgrade to an <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022">automatic gearbox</a> you get <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/what-is-cruise-control-and-should-you-have-it-on-your-next-car/n26822">adaptive cruise control</a>.

The D-Max didn’t feature in the 2023 <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/reliability-survey-most-reliable-cars/n26137">What Car? Reliability Survey</a> but it is backed by a five years/125,000 miles warranty, along with five years' roadside assistance. That's longer than you get with a Ranger and more mileage than a Hilux. The Musso beats them all with seven years/150,000 miles.

Safety is a D-Max strong suit, with a full five stars from <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/the-safest-cars-on-sale-today/n19724">Euro NCAP</a>. The Hilux also holds five stars&nbsp;but was tested under the old regime and its safety software isn’t as comprehensive as the D-Max's.

Automatic emergency braking (<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-aeb-and-how-does-it-work/n3283">AEB</a>), lane-departure warning and traffic-sign recognition come as standard. Double Cab models come with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while those fitted with an<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022"> automatic gearbox</a> also include active lane-keep assist.

<h2 dir="ltr">"I think the varied trim levels and commercial vehicle tag will make the D-Max a compelling company car for a range of people, whether they want to use&nbsp;it solely as a workhorse or a mix of workhorse and commuter."&nbsp;– <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/dan-jones/n23433">Dan Jones, Senior Reviewer</a></h2>

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For now, discussing the choice of engine for the Isuzu D-Max is pretty easy because there’s only one: a 162bhp 1.9-litre diesel. That's set to change in 2025,&nbsp;though, with the introduction of the brand’s first <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/new-isuzu-d-max-bev-electric-pick-up-truck-to-arrive-next-year/n26655">all-electric D-Max</a>.

Anyway, back to now. In everyday driving, the D-Max’s engine gets it off the line quickly enough but soon runs out of puff, making it best suited to low-speed commutes. It doesn’t feel any more sluggish than an entry-level <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/hilux/pick-up/review/n17270">Toyota Hilux</a>&nbsp;but the more potent version of that and the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/ranger/4x4/review/n17250">Ford Ranger</a> whip up to motorway speeds far faster.

The D-Max has a very short first gear on <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/which-cars-come-with-a-manual-gearbox/n26678">manual gearbox models</a> while the six-speed <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/automatic-gearboxes-everything-you-need-to-know/n17022">automatic gearbox</a> is hesitant before it kicks down.

It's legal to drive all D-Max models at the same <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/uk-speed-limits-explained/n25461">UK speed limits</a> as a car. That's because all versions weigh less than the 2,040kg threshold for dual-purpose and light commercial vehicles that requires you to drop your speed by 10mph on dual and single carriageways. It just takes you a while to get there...

The D-Max's ride is much more sophisticated than in <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/pick-up-trucks/n19493">pick-ups</a> of years gone by, and far better than the previous-generation model. However, it still feels rather bouncy without a load in the bed&nbsp;and sends shudders through the body when you hit something sharp. The Hilux has tighter control while a Ranger is an altogether more supple and comfortable vehicle.

The Ranger is also happier in the bends. Although it’s easy enough to guide the D-Max along, the Ranger’s more precise steering gives you greater confidence and is less affected by mid-corner bumps.

Engine refinement is never the strong suit of a pick-up, and the D-Max is no exception. Any demands for a bit more speed result in a cacophony of noise not helped by the engine’s lowly output. You’ll also hear plenty of wind whistling around the big mirrors and a fair amount of road noise.

The engines in the Ranger and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ssangyong/musso/estate/review/n17236">KGM Musso</a>&nbsp;(formerly the Ssangyong Musso) are smoother and quieter.

Suspension noise is well contained, which helps explain why the D-Max feels right at home clambering over deeply rutted terrain off road.

In fact it copes almost as well as the Hilux thanks to lots of suspension articulation to keep its wheels on the ground, plus a lockable rear differential (standard on DL20 models and above) to provide maximum traction in difficult situations. The D-Max's <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/how-to-drive-through-flood-water/n1221">maximum wading depth</a> is 800mm.

If serious <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/4x4s-for-off-roading/n26188">off-roading</a> is your thing, take a look at our review of a D-Max variant that's modified to take on anything – the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/isuzu-d-max-arctic-trucks-at35-pick-up-truck-first-drive/n25135">Arctic Trucks AT35</a>.

<h2 dir="ltr">"As someone who drives long distances on motorways, I find that the D-Max gets quite frustrating, running out of puff as speeds increase. The Ford Ranger is much easier to live with if you drive on anything more than country roads." – <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/dan-jones/n23433">Dan Jones, Senior Reviewer</a></h2>

Selling pick-up trucks used to be simple. All you needed was a hefty payload, a strong diesel engine and decent reliability to get your truck on to farmyards and building sites across the land. Times change&nbsp;though –&nbsp;and so has the Isuzu D-Max.&nbsp;

You see, having a tough truck in your dealership is no longer enough. Pick-ups have become more enticing as an alternative to SUVs – partly for the attractive <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/company-car-tax-guide/n9352">company car tax rates</a> – so they also need&nbsp;to be comfortable and safe for family trips, as well as smart enough to impress the neighbours.

That doesn’t mean Isuzu has forgotten its traditional market as a building site load-lugger. The D-Max is available with the option of a single cab with a long bed, an extended cab or a full five-seater double cab (the weekday work pick-up that can also serve as a weekend family hauler). There’s even a hardcore off-road version called the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/isuzu-d-max-arctic-trucks-at35-pick-up-truck-first-drive/n25135">Arctic Trucks AT35</a>.

Do those configurations give the Isuzu D-Max all it needs to take on the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/pick-up-trucks/n19493">best pick-up trucks</a>&nbsp;– including the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/ranger/4x4/review/n17250">Ford Ranger</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/amarok/pick-up/review/n17220">VW Amarok</a> along with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ssangyong/musso/estate/review/n17236">KGM Musso</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/hilux/pick-up/review/n17270">Toyota Hilux</a>? Read on to find out…

When you climb into the Isuzu D-Max, you find a well laid out interior with a decent driving position and lumbar support on the driver’s seat in all versions (manual for single and extended cabs, electric on double cab). Some might wish the steering wheel would come out further from the dashboard though.

Visibility out of the front is good thanks to the lifted driving position, sizeable door mirrors and relatively slim side pillars. Rear parking sensors are standard from DL20 models up, while the DL40 and V-cross get front ones as well, along with a rear-view camera.

A 7.0in <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-car-infotainment-systems-tested-and-rated/n21269">infotainment touchscreen</a>&nbsp;comes as standard on DL40 D-Max models, with an upgraded 9.0in version reserved for the top-spec V-Cross or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/isuzu-d-max-arctic-trucks-at35-pick-up-truck-first-drive/n25135">Arctic Trucks AT35</a>. That’s a good size and it’s positioned to be within easy reach, but the menu layout isn’t that logical, the graphics could be sharper and it’s not as responsive as the system you’ll find in a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/ranger/4x4/review/n17250">Ford Ranger</a> or <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/amarok/pick-up/review/n17220">VW Amarok</a>.

At least you get a row of physical buttons below the touchscreen for the stereo and a couple of shortcuts to certain functions. Meanwhile, the D-Max also has a dedicated panel for the ventilation system that’s easier to use than the touchscreen icons on the Amarok and Ranger.

Sat-nav isn’t standard on even the priciest V-Cross model but you get <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/what-is-android-auto/n1194">Android Auto</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/what-is-apple-carplay/n1193">Apple CarPlay</a> smartphone mirroring so you can run a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-sat-nav-apps/n24915">sat-nav app</a> on your phone through touchscreen. There's only one USB port up front, and no wireless phone-charging unless you go for the Arctic Trucks AT35 variant.

There are some soft-touch plastics on top of the dashboard, and there are painted trim highlights on higher-end versions around the gear lever, infotainment screen and doors.

All the D-Max's buttons and toggles have a very robust feel, although the central armrest is a bit flimsy. If you want something that feels plusher, we’d point you towards the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/ranger/4x4/review/n17250">Ford Ranger Wildtrak</a> or the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/amarok/pick-up/review/n17220">VW Amarok</a> – they use&nbsp;a wider range of interior materials.

<h2 dir="ltr">"The high driving position (especially that of the lifted Arctic Trucks version) is really useful, giving you one of the most commanding views you can get."&nbsp;– <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/dan-jones/n23433">Dan Jones, Senior Reviewer</a></h2>

The D-Max does the pick-up fundamentals well&nbsp;but rivals have better engine options

Isuzu D-Max

As you might expect in something as big as the Isuzu D-Max, there’s enough head, leg and shoulder room for even the burliest of occupants to get comfortable up front.

Isuzu gives you four cupholders, a cubby in front of the gear lever and a cubby under the armrest. There’s also a decent glovebox.

The D-Max Extended Cab comes with two small folding rear seats to occasionally accommodate a pair of rear-seat passengers, with small rear-hinged doors providing access.

The D-Max Double Cab is the one to go for if you often need to take more passengers. It has full-size rear doors and back seats large enough for three average-sized adults to sit across in relative comfort.&nbsp;The backrest is fairly upright and the floor is raised, but it’s similar to most <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/pick-up-trucks/n19493">pick-up trucks</a>. The two outer seats are more sculpted and supportive than the rather flat bench in the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/ranger/4x4/review/n17250">Ford Ranger</a>.

Double Cab versions have two more bottle holders in the rear doors and two cup holders in the central armrest. The back of the passenger seat has a fold-out hook that’s rated for 4kg, making it a particularly&nbsp;sturdy&nbsp;"curry hook".

If you want to secure a valuable bike or other expensive kit inside the D-Max, you can flip up the seat bases in a 60/40 split or fold down the seat back (which uncovers the vehicle jack and tool kit).

It’s the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/the-cars-with-the-biggest-boots/n18791">boot space</a> – or&nbsp;rather load bed – that’s of most importance to <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/pick-up-trucks/n19493">pick-up truck</a>&nbsp;buyers, and with the D-Max&nbsp;there are three lengths, which decrease as cab size increases (as they do with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/ranger/4x4/review/n17250">Ford Ranger</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/hilux/pick-up/review/n17270/on-the-road">Toyota Hilux</a>). All bed sizes can take a standard pallet lengthways between the wheel-arch intrusions.

There are four tie-down hoops in the bed, one for each corner, and all DL versions have a damped tailgate for ease of opening. The rear bumper has steps you can stand on to reach over the sides to get at anything in the load bed.

Even in its bulkiest Double Cab form, the D-Max can take a similar maximum payload to the equivalent Ranger. All versions are capable of carrying more than 1,000kg in the bed&nbsp;and towing 3,500kg, although not at the same time. The only pick-up capable of doing both at once is the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ssangyong/musso/estate/review/n17236">KGM Musso</a>.

<h2>"The four tie-down hoops are a really useful feature&nbsp;when it comes to securing loads in the load bay. I'd&nbsp;definitely suggest&nbsp;investing in the optional&nbsp;roller cover&nbsp;too so you can&nbsp;lock items away."&nbsp;– <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/dan-jones/n23433">Dan Jones, Senior Reviewer</a></h2>

The Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck impresses with its generous warranty but struggles to keep up with the best rivals in terms of performance, ride and handling. The Ford Ranger is better in all those aspects and also has a plusher interior.

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