I need a petrol van-based people carrier - what should I look at?

I have a large family and currently have a Volkswagen Caravelle TDI which is causing us misery as I only do short journeys and the DPF is a nightmare. I need a similar petrol van but can’t find one in our price range £25k and that can fit us all in comfortably. Any thoughts? I can’t go smaller as it would mean moving seats everytime I need to get kids in and out.

Asked on 13 August 2018 by Lucy

Answered by Dan Powell
I'm afraid the options are rather limited when it comes to large, petrol-powered vans. One alternative could be the all-electric Nissan e-NV200 Combi; it's based on the panel van and gets seven-seats and will cover 130+ miles on a single charge: vans.honestjohn.co.uk/van-reviews/nissan/env200-20.../

Or you could buy a petrol SUV with seven-seats, but that'll mean moving seats to get the kids in and out. If you are willing to make this compromise, the accomplished Skoda Kodiaq would be a worthy alternative: www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/skoda/kodiaq-2016/

Personally, I'd go for the Ford Tourneo Connect. For sure, it isn't as practical as the larger Volkswagen Caravelle, but it is easy to drive, comfortable and available with petrol power: vans.honestjohn.co.uk/van-reviews/ford/tourneo-con.../
Similar questions
I have a car and a van but use both, I'm wanting to sell both and just get one vehicle that will do the job of both vehicles. Any ideas what type would I be looking at?
Is the Nissan Elgrand suitable for carrying people for social events and regular use? Are there capable mechanics to repair it around the UK when needed or will I struggle with its maintenance?
It's time to replace my Seat Altea XL. As they are no longer in production, what would be a suitable spacious economic replacement?
Related models
Very comfortable and quiet, amazing running cost savings compared to diesel, absolutely no compromise on space or versatility.
Hugely practical, up to 16 seating configurations, based on the excellent Transit Connect van, impressive range of engines, good quality interior.
Quiet and refined seven-seater with lots of interior space, impressive road handling for its size, strong range of efficient diesel engines.
 

Value my van

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer