As an avid van user in the UK, I understand the importance of finding cost-efficient solutions. Whether you’re eyeing a reliable Citroen Berlingo or a practical Nissan NV200, figuring out how to get cheaper van insurance is crucial.
In-depth knowledge about different models, like the versatile Vauxhall Combo and the enduring Ford Transit Connect, can be your key to grabbing the best deals. Remember, effective comparison is always rewarding.
Don’t dismiss options like Renault Kangoo with its unique features. By exploring all possibilities, you can secure the most affordable van and insurance package. Happy van hunting!
Understanding the costs of vans in the UK can be tricky. We’ll delve into aspects including insurance groups and depreciation.
Understanding Van Costs
One important expense to consider when purchasing a van in the UK is determining the insurance group your van falls into.
Vehicle Insurance Groups
You might wonder how to determine which insurance group your chosen van belongs to. Thankfully, there are free resources available.
When it comes to vehicles, insurance groups can vary drastically based on factors such as security, safety measures, and overall value.
Depreciation: A Crucial Factor
Another key cost to factor in is depreciation, which refers to how much value your van loses over time.
The rate of depreciation could significantly influence your decision when purchasing a van, so it’s crucial to contemplate this aspect.
Finding Reliable Resources
To obtain reliable information on insurance groups, you can leverage resources provided by vehicle safety and security experts.
These authorities constantly monitor and update data on various vehicle models. Utilising their findings can aid in making informed decisions.
Citroen Berlingo Overview
The Citroen Berlingo presents its third-gen avatar for industrious individuals who value utility and flexibility.
This long-haul ride allows drivers to navigate through city streets, motorways, or even the winding countryside without a hitch.
The Worker configuration we voyaged in was both hardy and comfortable. It effortlessly exceeded our lofty expectations for a small van.
“The Citroen Berlingo proved more than capable for winding country roads.”
The van isn’t only about the easy-on-the-road feel but also houses some outstanding features in its four trim levels: X, Enterprise, Driver, and Worker.
Think of a mobile office, the Berlingo brings the convenience of a 220v charging socket and pivoting writing table. It’s a well-rounded small van maximizing productivity while on the go.
From soundproof cabin design to ample storage space- this small van indeed lends a helpful hand. It’s quite interesting that it can turn into the perfect mobile office with ease.
What’s more exciting is the laundry list of driver assistance features available. Adaptive cruise control, surround rear vision and active lane departure warning are just a few to name.
Apart from impressive utilities, one should not overlook the vehicle’s exceptional payload capacity. Its compact design packs quite a punch!
Nissan NV200 Details
The Nissan e-NV200, drawing inspiration from the NV200 van, pioneers as the world’s first all-electric seven-seat MPV.
With an architecture similar to the Nissan Leaf, this electric powerhouse appeals not only to larger families but also businesses providing private hire and shuttle services.
- Powertrain: It houses an electric motor that churns a humble 107bhp and 187lb ft of torque right from kick-off.
- Speed: Notwithstanding the NV200’s vast frontal area augmenting drag at higher velocities, it maintains power with a 24kWh battery identical to the one in the Leaf.
- Mileage: With an official range of a mere 106 miles, efficiency is its strong suit.
Distinguished for its versatility, the e-NV200 boasts about its load-carrying ability.
You can opt for either a five or seven seats configuration in three rows according to your needs.
- Cargo Capacity: The two rearmost seats can be folded against the car’s interior for creating more space.
- Versatility: To further increase load capacity, the three-seat middle-row bench can be folded and tumbled out of the way. This is great news for large-item transport!
- Bike Storage: With all seats collapsed, Nissan suggests that three full-sized bicycles could be accommodated in the e-NV200 without removing their front wheels.
In an upgrade introduced back in 2018, a new 40kWh drive battery replaced the earlier 24kWh battery pack.
This upgrade fitting into the same space as the old one ensured a range increment of 60%, touching 125 miles under the updated ‘WLTP combined’ test measure or 174 miles under the ‘NEDC’ test cycle.
The e-NV200 combines versatility and load-bearing capability, serving as a suitable alternative for multiple purposes from private hire to large family needs.
Vauxhall Combo Analysis
The Vauxhall Combo leaps into the market with a starting price for new ones at just under £20,000. Meanwhile, used models offer a significantly lower range from £7,846 – £18,985.
Keeping it on-road may seem costly with a road tax of £190. However, insurance groups between 8 to 15 make it a relatively economical option.
- Petrol or Diesel: Choose based on preference and needs, both fuels are at your disposal.
- Fuel efficiency: Its impressive fuel economy ranges between 37.5 – 55.4 mpg.
- Range: You get 657 – 748 miles range, an exciting promise for long journeys.
- Miles per pound: This economical side manifests in its ability to provide 5.4 – 7.1 miles for every pound spent.
This bulk of data informs us why the Vauxhall Combo holds its position as one of the “cheapest vans” in the UK market. For more specifics, I suggest you take a peek at this source.
Ford Transit Connect, a top choice for professionals, exhibits no frills when it comes to its tech features.
Infotainment Specs
The base Variant includes a modest 4.2-inch infotainment screen, catering to users who value functionality over flair.
Simplicity Over Flashiness
Remaining true to its work vehicle identity, Ford keeps the design of the Transit Connect straightforward and purposeful.
Focused on Functionality
Rather than dazzling with high-tech features, Ford prioritizes efficient, easy-to-use functionalities in the Transit Connect.
User Needs Addressed
Aiding in making informed decisions and enhancing efficiency, Ford delivers relevant solutions tailored to professionals’ needs through the Transit Connect.
Renault Kangoo Features
The Renault Kangoo adopts a simple, user-friendly system that includes Bluetooth, DAB radio, and sat-nav features.
You have the ability to modify some elementary vehicle settings directly from the touchscreen interface.
This version is complemented by multiple driver-aid features in the Advanced Driver Assist Pack, enhancing the driving experience.
Equipped with adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, the Kangoo offers semi-autonomous driving on motorways and primary roads.
This van also comes with blind-spot monitoring and traffic sign recognition for heightened road safety.
Two rear-view cameras are fitted. The first is a conventional reversing camera viewable through the infotainment screen.
The second digital rear-view mirror improves rearward visibility from the cab via a separate display at the top of the windscreen – an innovative feature in today’s van market.
The Kangoo line-up offers ‘medium’ and ‘long’ wheelbase versions, with panel van and crew cab configurations.
The larger model provides 4.3 cubic meters of load space and holds up to 987Kg. The Renault Kangoo E-Tech we’re exploring is smaller with a 3.3-cubic meter load space behind its fixed bulkhead.
The load bay spans 1,810mm in length, limited to 1,570mm in width, tapering to 1,248mm between the wheel arches there is ample space for cargo.
The payload takes a hit of almost 150Kg when selecting the electric powertrain option compared to a diesel variant. The payload for this specific model is about 794Kg which is still substantial in its own right.
Best Budget Vans
In wrapping up, the Ford Transit, Renault Trafic, Mercedes Sprinter, Fiat Doblo, and Vauxhall Vivaro emerge as the five cheapest vans for UK tradesmen. Each offers a blend of affordability, reliability and practicality that suits budget-conscious trade professionals without compromising on functionality or utility. Choosing among them depends on personal preference and specific trade requirements.
