What are the best medium vans? (diesel)

Vanaways
Vanaways
3rd Mar 2023
What are the best medium vans? (diesel)

There is no questioning that the diesel van market can be challenging. Even without mentioning their fuel type, the world of large payload vehicles is one of the most crowded and complex markets out there. There are a plethora of different manufacturers which claim their model has the largest storage capacity, highest payload, and goes the furthest in solving climate change. Sifting through this sea of over-enthusiastic sales jargon isn’t a job for the faint-hearted, and we certainly won’t blame you for bowing out of this task. So, in this blog, we’ll look at a few of the front runners and try to make all of this a little easier!

Renault Traffic

This blog simply wouldn’t be complete without the mention of Renault. The vehicle manufacturing giant has been building world-class vans for decades and they certainly know how to please their consumers. Comfort, simplicity, and efficiency are the three words we would use to best describe the Traffic. The van is a shining example of how simple, well-thought-through design can create a product capable of pleasing the masses.

As for the van’s stats, its largest engine (the Blue dCi 170) produces a reasonable but commendable 170 bhp with 380 Nm of torque. Admittedly, these figures won’t exactly blow your hat off, but the van certainly has enough power to comfortably carry a full load of cargo.

Citroen Dispatch

Next up we have another French vehicle expert whose vans have an exponential reputation. Citroen really knows what they’re doing when it comes to diesel engines and the Dispatch is one of the shining examples. The van comes with two 1.5-litre diesel engines which have 102 bhp and 120 bhp, respectively. Yes, this isn’t quite as much as the Traffic, but the Dispatch does some other things up its sleeve! Its payload ratings, for example, are highly impressive for a medium van.

Ford Transit

Finally, we have one of the most famous vans in the world. The Ford Transit is iconic. Nobody would argue with that and the fact is, this van just keeps on getting better. Ford have certainly not sat still on what was a great design from the off. In fact, they continue to progress the design and move the world of medium vans forward. Ford’s latest Transit variant comes with the impressive 2.0-litre EcoBlue engines, which offer 105 bhp, 130 bhp, and 170 bhp.

If any of these vans sound like the right choices for you, then make sure you contact us today. We have many years of experience in the industry and can certainly help you to find the right van for you. It doesn’t just have to be a medium van either! Here at Vanaways, we have a huge range of vehicles from smaller vans right through to large payload vehicles!

Vanaways Reviews

   
Lynne S

Lynne S

04 March 2026

"First time using Vansaway! I was in a bit of a panic as my van broke down and I was unable to fix it. My van is my livihood, so I looked into leasing and contract. I wish I done it sooner. I spoke to Jonathan as my first point of contact. I couldn't have got any luckier having him as my support. He was absolutely fantastic, he went above and beyond to help me. He was easy to contact and would always reply when I had any concerns or questions. His knowledge on all vehicles was impeccable, which made things easier. He listened to what I wanted and needed and explained everything thoroughly help me making the right choice in plan and kept in touch throughout the entire process! He knew I was in desperate need of a van and he did not disappoint and kept his word and I was able to get my new van delivered as soon as possible. Enjoying the drive. Its great about the perks involved in having a contract hire as well! Thank you so much for everything! Highly recommend, vans are just not how they use to be, so its great to have a brand new van along with the support of any engine faults things like that. A huge stress off my shoulders being sole trader."

Mike Collins

Mike Collins

18 February 2026

"Excellent service from start to finish. Rob was very helpful throughout the purchase of our Ford Transit tipper. Can’t recommend them enough. Mike Collins."

John Owens

John Owens

17 October 2025

"Fantastic service from start to finish. Liam took the time to listen to the vehicle that I wanted. Within 2 weeks the right vehicle was sourced and delivered Joe was on point with work out the logistics and taking care of my part ex with exception customer service Thank you both"

Sarah Ward

Sarah Ward

01 September 2025

"We have used Vanaways on two occasions now and the customer service has always been great. I contacted them as our team grew and withing 2 weeks we had the vans in our yard. Quick and efficient service all round. Tyler in the delivery department kept me up to date throughout the process. Would certainly recommend."

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