I'm looking for an economic, reliable, refined van - what do you recommend?

I have an LDV Maxus, which I have been pleased with as a work horse. I'm looking for a van with more refinement, good fuel economy, road handling, safety and visibility, space, comfort and reliable functions (heating, demisting, radio, locks windows etc). It needs to provide multiple uses: transportation of building materials, ferrying grandchildren about, basic camping, removable seats for eight people (children and adults). It cannot be more than five metres external length. This is a big purchase for me and I hope to keep the van for at least 15 years. I've been reading your info on the Toyota Proace, Citroen Dispatch and Peugeot Expert purely for fuel economy. But finding it hard to compare the good and bad between vans, I'll consider any van. I would appreciate any help you can give.

Asked on 29 August 2017 by Angela Perry

Answered by Dan Powell
The Ford Tourneo Custom is the best all-rounder. It has nine seats as standard and the rear seats can be removed when not needed. It’s also efficient and easy to drive: vans.honestjohn.co.uk/van-reviews/ford/tourneo-cus.../

I’d also add the Toyota Proace to the list as it can be specified with seven, eight or nine seats and features a split tailgate, which means you can load the boot when parked close to other vehicles. It’s also sold with a comprehensive five-year 100,000 mile warranty from Toyota as standard. For the top 10 van-based MPVs, see: vans.honestjohn.co.uk/van-top-10s/top-10-van-based.../
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