City vans are essential to the logistical networks in a community; whether it be as a family van, or as a service or delivery car, city cargo vans are the workhorses we use to get things completed. We thus expect them to be fuel-efficient, passenger-friendly, and to provide enough space for most vocational needs. With so many options on the table, it becomes difficult to make the right decision when it comes to purchasing. Should you purchase the microvan, should you go with the AWD version? There are many things to take into consideration, and that’s why we’re here to make that decision easier.

2023 Ford Transit Connect Passenger Wagon
Base MSRP
$35,600
Fuel Economy
24/28 MPG
Horsepower
162 hp
2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van
Base MSRP
$34,100
Fuel Economy
24/26 MPG
Horsepower
162 hp
2021 Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo
Base MSRP
$23,630
Fuel Economy
24/26 MPG
Horsepower
131 hp
2022 Ram ProMaster City Cargo Van
Base MSRP
$32,580
Fuel Economy
21/28 MPG
Horsepower
178 hp
2022 Ram ProMaster City Passenger Wagon
Base MSRP
$33,075
Fuel Economy
21/28 MPG
Horsepower
178 hp

What to Consider When Buying

Things to look out for when deciding whether to purchase or not include the following:

Pros

  • Tons of cargo room
  • Multi-purpose layout
  • Towing potential
  • User-friendly in black and white on paper

Cons

  • Not exactly fuel-efficient
  • Heavy curb weight places strain on certain parts.
  • Difficult to maneuver in tight areas
  • Not always passenger-centric

City Van Characteristics

With so much choice in the segment, there are a few specifications common to the city van. This includes:

City Express Van

Although this title alludes to the type of workhorse most suited to urban dimensions, it is best known as the name of the contribution from Chevrolet, which was discontinued in 2018. The City Express Van, which was basically a Nissan NV200 dressed-up differently, sold less than 30,000 units over the course of the four years it was available for purchase, before GM called it quits. To look at what you can get, make sure to read through our individual reviews of each brand’s offering.

FAQs

Should I buy new or used?

Getting a used micro-class vehicle should take careful consideration. Obtaining a new one will cost more, but most second-hand units tend to have very high mileage and could prove to be unreliable. Look out for clearance sales at local dealers, or make sure to go with a clean title and solid maintenance history.

What are the best vans for small businesses?

For small enterprises that want to keep costs low, one can look at smaller front-wheel-drive vehicles. These offer more loading area, thanks to their drivetrain layout and should consume less fuel due to its simple drivetrain setup saving you time and increasing practicality.

Are vans expensive to service?

The price you pay for owning one could be big enough to put it up for sale in some cases. Older cars can start to rack up the cost, and maintenance intervals are shorter than normal but maintained correctly, they will pay for themselves.