Best Passenger Vans. 2022 Ratings

Common Specifications for the Best Passenger Vans

Performance: Automobiles in this category usually have pretty robust powertrains to compensate for their bulk and size. They’re by no means sprightly, but they are competent. Handling can be somewhat harrowing considering the large dimensions and boxy shape of these transporters. They can be a little difficult to maneuver in tight spots especially and they tend to be very susceptible to crosswinds when on the highway.
Powertrain: These large utilitarian carriers can come equipped with anything from a gasoline-injected naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine to a turbo-diesel V6, and in many cases even a V8. Front- and rear-wheel drive are the general setups for the class with only a few featuring all-wheel-drive, such as the Merc Sprinter 4x4s. For added ease of use for the driver, most automobiles from the segment ship with automatic transmissions.
Features: Even the more high-end ones aren’t particularly well outfitted with creature comforts and conveniences. They’re aimed more at transportation than anything and make do without all the luxuries one would find in a family-specced commuter to keep prices relatively low. A premium cloth upholstery is usually the standard, there’s also manual or automated climate control, and some get automated side sliding doors.
Configurations: Many nameplates are available in a variety of body length and heights that subsequently determine the seating layouts. There are five, six, seven, and eight-seater layouts as one would get from a regular car or SUV and then 9-passenger, 12-passenger, and 15-passenger layouts, with the biggest concluding at 17. The extended roof height alternatives usually just cater to entry and exit convenience.

Top-Rated Passenger Van Models for 2020

The top three passenger vans according to CarBuzz’s BuzzScore rating system are:

Mercedes-Benz EQV
Ford Transit Connect Passenger Wagon
Ram ProMaster City Wagon

What to consider before buying

Before taking the plunge, be sure to check out our passenger van comparisons to identify the types of van that would best suit you. Here are some things to take into account:

Pros

Plenty of cabin room and cargo space
Passenger-centric interiors
Available in numerous configurations
Suitable for home use and commercial rent

Cons

Heft and size makes them tricky to maneuver
They’re not particularly fuel-efficient
Cabin interiors are almost always too simplistic
Not too many makes available on the market

FAQs about large passenger vans

What’s the best passenger van to buy?

The Mercedes-Benz EQZ, an all-electric cruiser based on the familiar Metris minivan, takes pole position on our roster as the best large passenger van for sale in the USA. If it seems a little pricey, you can always look for a used variant.

Are there any new passenger vans from Toyota or Nissan?

There are no people haulers from Toyota, with its latest package, the Hiace, barred from the US for its subpar safety evaluations. Nissan, however, offer the NV Passenger van, although a disastrous 2019 sales term is rumored to mean the culling of commercial vehicles from the Japanese automaker in the States.

Best Passenger Vans of 2022