Top Medium Panel Vans to Watch in 2025

The Ford Transit Custom continues to dominate the medium panel van market, and for good reason. With prices starting at £33,350 (excluding VAT), it offers an impressive blend of performance and practicality. The Transit Custom is renowned for its car-like driving experience, rival-beating door openings, and a variety of powertrains, including a fully electric model. The van's payload capacity of 1,407 kilograms and a load volume of 6.8 cubic meters ensure it can handle substantial cargo. Notably, its advanced driver-safety aids, like lane-keeping assist and collision prevention, enhance the driving experience, while technological features such as Ford's SYNC 4 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto add to its appeal.

Vauxhall Vivaro and its siblings, Citroen Dispatch, Peugeot Expert, Fiat Scudo, and Toyota Proace, offer a compelling package for those seeking a cost-effective solution. Priced from £29,680 (excl. VAT), these vans share much of their running gear, providing consistent performance across brands. With a maximum payload of 1,446 kilograms and a load volume of 6.6 cubic meters, these vans are ideal for businesses needing versatile transport options. The Vivaro's interior is practical with a three-seat layout, albeit slightly cramped for some, but it compensates with a range of in-car tech and driver aids like active cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.

The Volkswagen Transporter remains a staple in the medium van sector, offering a familiar yet refined driving experience. Starting at £32,250 (excl. VAT), it provides a maximum payload of 1,200 kilograms and a load volume of 6.8 cubic meters. The Transporter is available in both diesel and electric variants, with an anticipated plug-in hybrid model set to debut in 2026. Its customizability extends to wheelbase options and interior configurations, making it an attractive choice for diverse business needs. The van's ride quality and steering precision make it a pleasure to drive, maintaining its status as a reliable workhorse.

Renault Trafic and Nissan Primastar stand out for their robust build and high-set driving position. Priced from £31,140 (excl. VAT), these models offer a maximum payload of 1,185 kilograms and a generous load volume of 8.9 cubic meters. The high driving position and large rear-view mirrors enhance visibility, making urban navigation easier. Despite their traditional design, these vans are equipped with modern features, including a load-through bulkhead for lengthy items and various driver aids like lane departure warning and city braking.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo injects a dose of retro charm into the medium van market, coupled with modern electric capabilities. Starting at £31,380 (excl. VAT), it offers a range of up to 276 miles on the WLTP cycle. Although it has a lower payload capacity of 710 kilograms and a load volume of 3.9 cubic meters compared to its peers, its design and efficiency cater to businesses focused on sustainability. The ID. Buzz Cargo's car-like driving dynamics and rapid charging capability make it an attractive option for eco-conscious enterprises.

For those seeking a premium touch, the Mercedes Vito offers a blend of reliability and luxury. Priced from £33,180 (excl. VAT), it provides a maximum payload of 903 kilograms and a load volume of 6.6 cubic meters. The Vito's rear-wheel-drive layout enhances towing capabilities, complemented by advanced features like trailer stability assist. The fully electric eVito variant, with a range of 160 miles, offers an environmentally friendly alternative without sacrificing cargo capacity. The Vito's upscale interior and brand prestige make it a standout choice for businesses wanting to balance functionality with sophistication.