Crew Vans: New Vito/New Transporter/Transit Custom

I am just considering changing from my pickup for a mix of environmental and fuel cost issues (I find it really hard justifying to myself the 25mpg) and thinking perhaps it is time to give a crew cab van a go.

99% of the time I don’t *need* to go offroad, or nothing worse than a farm track, so I could probably get away without 4×4, the idea is to take a look at the above, and possibly the smaller Caddy/Connect/Citan options as well. Given that two of them are pretty new to the market has anyone been out and had a look as yet? I would probably be looking at the more powerful end of the engine ranges for long distances.

My alternative is holding on into the new year and seeing what the new breed of pickups is like, which is a more appealing idea for those times I really do NEED 4×4, but it is that rare that I am seriously thinking about workarounds for those situations.

T6 Tristar

https://www.first4auto.com/vw-previews-next-gen-t6-transporter-in-form-of-tristar-concept-at-hannover/

Just use someone like SHB for the odd time you REALLY need a 4×4.
The new Merc is getting high praise.
The Caddy is a known and loved with high residual value. Go for the LWB whatever you choose. You’ll miss the rear space if you don’t. Caddy Maxi is a full 5 seater, the Life gives you seven with rear windows.
Obviously the larger ones give you 6 seats but the larger running costs generally too.
Best thing is to go drive them all and see which fits you best.
All the advice in the world won’t help if you hate sitting in it.

If that thing actually came out I would be well into the idea!

Mmmm espresso on the move! I wonder if the beans would be tax deductible…

I will certainly need some extended test drives. I knackered up my knee in an accident a few years back and a LOT of cars cause me massive pain after an hour or so (driving or passenger – something to do with the angle my leg is at I think). Oddly my Mitsubishi is one of the few vehicles I have been in of late that doesn’t cause me too much bother.

The size depends on which I can fit on my drive – I can go a little over 5m at most (the L200 Trojan just fits and I could maybe get away with an inch or two longer at most, which rules out most trucks for the moment, although we may move in with my Dad which would remove that obstacle).

The Merc and Caddy both come in DSG variants

Yeah – an auto is an option I am considering as it is my left knee that causes the grief. The more I ride the better as it strengthens it up, but I think I will be looking to get a referral to a specialist soon.