Volkswagen T5 Transporter (2003 - 2015)
1.9TDI SWB T26
If you can find one for a sensible price, pretty decent little van
Its slow, sure- but a very decent van. No substantial rust after 13 years, comfortable and decent ride quality (unlike most vans, the T5/T6 has independent rear suspension.)
Deliberately went for the T26 1.9, as no one buys these to tow, or load up with heavy materials- so a van at this age is not completely destroyed. 1.9tdi is without DPF or other difficult tech, and returns 40mpg mixed or 44 on the motorway- simple little engine, DIY friendly for servicing and cam belt swap. Cheap parts (not that you need them). A bit noisy though from the outside. In the inside, noise improved by fitting VW front carpet. I've seen examples with this engine beyond 1/2 million miles.
The big issue with them is the 'fashion' crowd pushing the prices of heavily used ones to silly levels. I bought mine in Holland, where they are more considered 'old vans' rather than some sort of lifestyle statement. Mine was £2.2k on a 07 plate and 145k miles- similar money in Germany, Austria and Belgium- but weirdly double the price in the UK.
