Best Cargo Vans of 2022

What to consider before buying work vans

There are certainly a number of larger vehicles on the roads nowadays, with many SUVs giving an impressive amount of space in the trunk. However, this level of utility cannot compete with the box truck, which devotes the majority of its body to the performance of its true purpose. So what exactly sets the delivery van apart from the rest of its ilk?

Pros

• Unbeatable cargo capacity
• Generally quite well priced
• More than powerful enough to perform heavy work
• Easier to load thanks to rear and side doors instead of a liftgate

Cons

• Most offer little or no advanced features
• Comfort is middling on all but the luxury brands
• Fuel economy never impresses

Who Buys Cargo Vans?

For the most part, these machines are sought after by those who have a commercial enterprise to run. It may be true that even the everyman on the street can purchase one, but many of the lowest prices and some choice luxuries are reserved for fleet operators. These are the people and businesses that are willing to invest large amounts of capital in new vehicles on a regular basis. Manufacturers seem to expect that most other consumers who need to move items now and then would rather lease than purchase.

What is the most reliable cargo van?

In the USA, it is an indisputable fact that the Ford Transit is the go-to workhorse. Available in its regular or more compact Connect variant, this hauler is highly adaptable. With a choice between a low or high roof, as well as a standard, long, or extended-length body, it can be customized to fit the needs of any buyer. There are more types than just the Cargo, too; it can be had as a Crew with extra seats or even a Passenger. To top it all off, it is also remarkably affordable in either its full-size or compact configuration. The Connect goes for as little at $24,275, while the bulkier machine starts at $34,510. It can store up to 542.2 cubic feet and carry loads of up to 4,530 pounds. This is actually a bit less payload capacity than the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which also offers all-wheel-drive. Still, it is often called the most reliable cargo van in the States.

The Rest of the Best Cargo Vans

• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter - Manufactured under Dodge until around 2009, the Sprinter nameplate now ranks in our top-rated options under Mercedes, where it loses a few points for being more expensive than its rivals. Starting just shy of $35k, this premium brand can soar upwards of $60,500. It can stow up to 532.6 cubic feet of goods, and haul a whopping 6,735 lbs. It is also one of the rare few that offer AWD.
• Nissan NV - Definitely a prime contender for those seeking a low-cost worker, the NV and the smaller NV200 bear very amenable price tags. It is not quite as customizable as some of the competition, but it can be configured to have a 323.1-cubic-foot bay, which supports up to 3,850 lbs.
• Chevrolet Express - If you’d like something a little more American but do not find Ford appealing, then this Chevy might meet your needs. The manufacturer has not made much effort to keep it modern, sadly, and it has only mediocre capabilities - 319.9 cubic feet and 4,503 lbs. It gets relatively decent fuel economy, though, with a combined rating of 14 mpg, and it is not all that expensive at $32,000.

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