Top 7 Best Work Vans in the United Kingdom (2025 Update)

Choosing the best work van can be a challenge because you’re choosing a vehicle that can transport loads daily, without breaking down on you. The choice is about uptime, reliability, and cost. 

Each year, 20% new vans are registered in the UK. Among all vans, the Ford Transit remains at the top as the best-selling van. However, in this blog, we will go beyond Transit and discuss the 7 best work vans in the UK in 2025.

So without any delays, let’s get started.

1. Ford Transit Custom

The first one in our list is the Ford Transit Custom, which has been the UK’s favourite work van for years. And for good reason. It is a practical and reliable van that simply works.

It comes in different lengths, roof heights, and payloads, which is perfect for almost any trade. Also, the cabin feels more like a car than a van, making long jobs easier, and the tech is user-friendly. The running costs are reasonable, and there is even a plug-in hybrid option if you want to drive in ULEZ zones. 

However, it’s not the biggest van in its class, but it can handle most of your jobs with ease. And because of its widespread use, its parts and servicing are easy to find.

Best for: Anyone who needs a van for their daily usage.

Pros:

• High resale value
• Hybrid option
• Different choices of versions

Cons:

• Smaller load space
• High demand keeps its price high

2. Toyota Proace

The second one in our list is the Toyota Proace, a mid-size van that’s often overlooked but offers strong value. And it’s totally worth it, especially if you want something reliable with long coverage.

The Proace comes in different sizes, so you can tailor it to your work. If you look at the interior, the cabin is simple, not as polished as some rivals like the Citroen Dispatch. However, it covers ten years of warranty if you stick with Toyota servicing. 

Besides, the Proace is available as a fully electric model. That makes it a smart option if you work in cities or want to avoid ULEZ charges. 

Best for: Those who want peace of mind with long-term reliability and warranty.

Pros:

• Up to a 10-year warranty with Toyota servicing
  
• Diesel and electric versions
  
• Flexible load options
  
• Good running costs
  

Cons:

• Less badge appeal than Ford or VW
  
• Interior looks basic
  
• The ride can feel firm

3. Citroen Dispatch

Next in the list is the Citroen Dispatch, which is a mid-size van. It is a good option for many trades because it strikes a good balance between comfort, efficiency, and practicality.

Also, it’s available in three body lengths, XS, M, and XL, with a decent payload capacity (1400 kg), so it can easily handle most jobs without trouble. The cabin is not very modern but functional, with decent storage. Besides, there’s also the e-Dispatch, a fully electric version, which is great for city driving and avoiding ULEZ costs.

However, it’s comfortable, but the ride can feel a bit firm on rougher roads. If you compare it to rivals like the Transit Custom, it doesn’t hold its value quite as well. Still, it is the best for those who want efficiency.

Best for: Tradespeople who want a mid-sized van with a good choice of sizes and low running costs.

Pros:

• Comes in three different sizes
  
• Fuel economy with a better payload
  
• User-friendly tech
  

Cons:

• Basic interior
  
• Lower driving position affects visibility
  
• Resale values are not the strongest

4. Vauxhall Vivaro

Next up is the Vauxhall Vivaro, which is a very practical and reliable work van. And for those who prefer a British-built option, it’s also one of the few medium vans still manufactured in the UK. 

It also comes in different sizes, so you can pick the one that fits your work needs with a 1446 kg payload capacity. There is also a fully electric version, which is the best option for those who spend most of the time in ULEZ zones. Like most of the work vans, the cabin is simple with decent storage and user-friendly tech. 

Also, Vivaro has a wide choice of engines, and it’s comfortable to ride on long motorways. However, it isn’t stylish. It has a basic interior, but it is solid, dependable, and fuel-efficient. And maybe that’s why most tradespeople prioritise it. 

Best for: Anyone who wants a reliable, practical van that’s available in electric.

Pros:

• British-built with good quality
• Electric version available
• Comfortable mid-sized van
• Low running costs

Cons:

• Interior plastics feel basic
• Styling isn’t very exciting
• The electric version has a limited range compared to some rivals

5. Mercedes Vito

Mercedes Vito stands for its strong and premium brand reputation. It’s not just about the badge, but the reliability.

Vito comes in different sizes so that you can choose the best fit for your needs. Also, the cabin is more refined than rivals like the Transit and Vivaro, with spacious seats and a modern dashboard. The 2024 facelift is even more advanced with updated technology, making it more like a passenger car than a work van.

Unlike other vans, Vito is a more stable and composed van, even when fully loaded. It runs smoothly on every type of road. The Vito diesel engine offers a good balance of power and efficiency. Also, it comes in an electric version, which is perfect for city driving, like in ULEZ zones.

Best for: Businesses looking for the best work van with strong brand appeal.

Pros:

• Modern and premium cabin
• Available in different sizes
• Brand name and reputation

Cons:

• Expensive
  
• Less practical than some rivals

6. Peugeot Expert

The second last in our list is the Peugeot Expert. It is similar to the Citroen Dispatch and Toyota Proace. This is because they all share the same platform, but Expert has its own set of features. 

There are different variants of Expert, like Panel, Crew, and Platform Cab, so it can suit city work and longer trips alike. That said, the cabin is simple yet functional, with decent storage space.

The Expert has a decent fuel economy compared to its rivals. And, on the roads, it runs smoothly and feels stable even when loaded with the highest payload. 

Best for: Trades who want a practical and reliable van with flexible sizes and an electric option.

Pros:

• Choice of lengths and roof heights
  
• Electric version available
  
• Smooth, stable drive
  
• Low running costs
  

Cons:

• Hard plastics in the cabin
  
• Interior is less premium than some rivals
  
• Not the most stylish work van

7. Renault Traffic

The last one on our list is the Renault Traffic. It’s known for being practical and affordable. And is one of the most popular midsize vans for small businesses.

Like others, it also comes in different sizes, like L1, L2, H1, and H2, which suit your work. It is available with choices of engines to suit different needs and higher output.

Despite not being the most stylish work van, it’s dependable, easy to maintain, and affordable to run. That’s why it remains a top choice for many UK trades.

Best for: Trades who want a reliable and cost-effective mid-sized van.

Pros:

• Affordable and practical
  
• Choice of lengths and roof heights
  
• Decent fuel economy
  
• Functional cabin with storage
  

Cons:

• Interior feels basic
  
• Seats are less supportive on long trips
  
• Not as refined as premium rivals

Conclusion: Best Work Van

Choosing the best work van is not always that simple in the UK. There are many models, but finding which one fits your daily trade is a real task. 

Some vans give you performance, others more space, and a few save you money on fuel. It all depends on your business nature. 

So, whether you go for the ever-British iconic Ford Transit, Toyota Proace, or something premium like the Mercedes Vito, the best van is the one that works best for you.

For more expert advice on different vehicles, explore our latest blogs.