Crew Vans

Crew Vans

Crew vans have become an indispensable asset for businesses and families alike. These versatile vehicles offer a perfect blend of passenger comfort and cargo space, making them ideal for a wide range of applications. From transporting work crews to taking the family on a road trip, crew vans provide the flexibility and functionality that many people need in their daily lives.  See our small van leasing here

This guide will explore the world of crew vans in depth. It will cover what exactly a crew van is, highlight some of the top models available, and discuss the advantages of owning one. The article will also provide tips on choosing the right crew van for specific needs, delve into customization options, and offer insights on how to make the most of these practical vehicles. Whether you're in the market for a new vehicle or simply curious about crew vans, this comprehensive overview will give you all the information you need.

What is a Crew Van?

A crew van, also known as a crew cab van, double cab van, or kombi van, is a versatile vehicle that combines passenger comfort with cargo space. These vans are designed to transport both people and goods efficiently, making them an ideal choice for various businesses and families.

Definition Crew Vans

A crew van is characterized by its unique layout, which includes an additional row of rear seats behind the driver's seat, side windows, and large back doors. This configuration allows for greater flexibility in transporting both passengers and cargo. The term "crew" in the name indicates the vehicle's capacity to carry a larger group of people, while "cab" refers to its function of transporting passengers from one point to another. The "van" designation describes its large, cuboid shape, which sets it apart from traditional cars.

Key Features Crew Vans

Crew vans typically have the following key features:

1. Two rows of seating: One row for the driver and front passenger, and an additional row behind for more passengers.
2. Flexible seating arrangements: Many modern crew vans have removable rear seats, allowing for customization of the interior space.
3. Large cargo area: Behind the rear seats, there's usually ample space for carrying equipment, tools, or other goods.
4. Side windows: Unlike standard panel vans, crew vans have windows along the sides, improving visibility and passenger comfort.
5. Full-size doors: Crew vans often have four full-size doors, making it easier for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle.
6. Spacious interior: The cabin is typically longer than in extended cab vans, providing more legroom and comfort for rear-seat passengers.

It's worth noting that crew vans are larger than standard cars. They are generally higher, wider, and longer, with a box-like design that maximizes interior space. This increased size allows crew vans to accommodate more passengers and cargo than even the largest SUVs.

Common Uses Crew Vans

Crew vans have gained popularity due to their versatility and practicality. They are commonly used in various scenarios:

1. Business transportation: Many companies lease crew vans to transport workers to and from job sites. The combination of passenger seating and cargo space makes them ideal for tradespeople and small businesses.
2. Family vehicles: Crew vans offer a spacious alternative to minivans or large SUVs for families who need extra room for passengers and gear.
3. Specialized industries: Musicians, film crews, and other professionals who need to transport both people and equipment often find crew vans to be the perfect solution.
4. Recreational use: The ample space and comfort make crew vans suitable for road trips and outdoor adventures.

It's important to note that while crew vans share similarities with cars, they are classified differently for tax and licensing purposes. In some regions, crew vans may be considered vans rather than cars by tax authorities, which can affect income tax and National Insurance Contributions for owners. Additionally, drivers should be aware that while most crew vans can be operated with a standard Category B car license (for vehicles up to 3,500 kg), some larger models may require a different license category.

Top Crew Van Models

The crew van market offers a range of options to suit various needs. Three standout models have gained popularity for their versatility, comfort, and performance. Let's explore the Ford Transit Custom, Volkswagen Transporter, and Mercedes-Benz Vito in detail.

Ford Transit Custom

The Ford Transit Custom has maintained its position as the best-selling van in the UK for several years. This popularity stems from its exceptional features and practicality. The Double Cab version, in particular, has become a favorite among small businesses and owner-operators.

Key features of the Ford Transit Custom include:

1. Six-seater capacity with additional cargo space
2. Ability to carry up to two Euro pallets in L2 specification
3. Excellent cabin design with practical touches
4. Car-like driving experience for improved comfort

The latest generation of the Transit Custom builds on its predecessor's success with several improvements:

• Lighter underpinnings and a longer wheelbase
• 13% more aerodynamic front end for enhanced efficiency
• Available in panel van, double cab-in-van, and new MultiCab variants
• Power options ranging from 107bhp to 168bhp, with 4-wheel drive available on select models
• Improved ride comfort due to independent rear suspension
• Increased payload capacity of up to 1,327kg for the 3.2-ton gross vehicle weight van
• Towing capacity of 2.5 tons

The Transit Custom also offers impressive standard equipment, including pre-collision assist, lane-keeping, traffic sign recognition, and front and rear parking sensors.

Volkswagen Transporter

The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1, an updated version of the T6 generation, has undergone subtle yet significant changes to keep it competitive in the market. This model is known for its strong resale value and classy image.

Notable features of the Volkswagen Transporter include:

1. Available in two roof heights and two wheelbases
2. Revised front end design
3. Updated interior with improved Volkswagen infotainment system
4. Popular choice among camper van converters

The Transporter offers various trim levels to cater to different needs:

• Startline (entry-level): 6.5" touchscreen, electric front windows, heated door mirrors
• Trendline: Body-colored door mirrors, rear parking sensors, cruise control
• Highline: App-Connect for phones, air conditioning, adaptive cruise control
• Sportline (top-tier): 204 HP engine with DSG transmission, lowered suspension, 18" alloy wheels

Mercedes-Benz Vito

The Mercedes-Benz Vito Crew Van stands out for its upmarket image and well-finished design. While it comes at a premium price point, it offers several advantages for businesses looking to make a strong impression.

Key features of the Mercedes-Benz Vito include:

1. Comfortable and spacious interior
2. Mercedes PRO connect for 24/7 vehicle information via mobile phone
3. Diverse range of heights, wheelbases, and engine choices
4. Six-adult seating capacity with space for a Euro pallet in the back

The Vito is available in various configurations to suit different business needs. Its versatility and premium build quality make it a popular choice among those who prioritize comfort and brand image in their commercial vehicles.

In conclusion, these top crew van models offer a range of features and capabilities to meet diverse business requirements. From the best-selling Ford Transit Custom to the classy Volkswagen Transporter and the premium Mercedes-Benz Vito, businesses have excellent options to choose from when selecting a crew van for their operations.

Advantages of Crew Vans

Crew vans have gained popularity among businesses and families alike due to their numerous advantages. These versatile vehicles offer a perfect balance between passenger comfort and cargo space, making them an ideal choice for various applications.

Versatility Crew Vans

One of the primary advantages of crew vans is their exceptional versatility. These vehicles come in various sizes and configurations, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their needs. Whether it's transporting a small work team, a large family, or bulky equipment, there's likely a crew van that can get the job done efficiently.

Crew vans serve as an excellent middle ground between conventional panel vans and minibusses or van-based MPVs. This flexibility makes them a popular choice for those who need a work vehicle that can double as family transport. They offer more security and cargo volume than a double cab pick-up truck, making them an attractive option for businesses and individuals alike.

The adaptability of crew vans extends to their interior configurations as well. Many models feature adjustable or removable rear seats, allowing users to customize the space according to their specific needs. This feature is particularly beneficial for businesses that require different setups for various tasks or projects.

Passenger Comfort Crew Vans

Crew vans excel in providing passenger comfort, making them an excellent choice for both work and leisure purposes. These vehicles typically seat between four and six people, offering ample space for small teams or families to travel comfortably.

The passenger compartment in many crew vans is well-equipped, often featuring carpets, leather trim on some models, and decent infotainment systems borrowed from passenger car ranges. This level of comfort is particularly appreciated on long journeys or when the van needs to double as a family vehicle.

For families, crew vans offer several advantages over traditional family cars:

1. Increased seating capacity, ideal for families with more than five members
2. Spacious interiors that provide comfort during long trips
3. Ample headroom and legroom for passengers of all sizes
4. Improved visibility due to large windows and higher seating positions

Many crew vans also come equipped with safety features such as Isofix points for child seats, ensuring that even the youngest passengers can travel securely. This feature makes crew vans an attractive option for families who need a vehicle that can transition seamlessly between work and family duties.

Cargo Space Crew Vans

Despite their focus on passenger comfort, crew vans still offer impressive cargo-carrying capabilities. While the addition of a second row of seats does reduce the overall cargo volume compared to standard panel vans, crew vans still provide ample space for transporting goods and equipment.

The cargo area in crew vans is typically separated from the passenger compartment by a bulkhead, which can be either solid or mesh. This separation ensures the safety of passengers while allowing for secure transportation of goods. Some models even feature adjustable bulkheads, providing flexibility in how the interior space is utilized.

Crew vans offer several advantages in terms of cargo space:

1. Ability to carry both passengers and cargo simultaneously
2. Impressive payload figures across medium and large crew vans
3. Sufficient space to accommodate standard Euro pallets in many models
4. Option to fold or remove rear seats for increased cargo capacity when needed

For businesses, this combination of passenger and cargo space can help streamline operations and maximize efficiency. It allows for the transportation of both personnel and equipment in a single vehicle, potentially reducing the need for multiple vehicles and lowering overall operational costs.

In conclusion, the advantages of crew vans – versatility, passenger comfort, and cargo space – make them an attractive option for a wide range of users. From small businesses and tradespeople to large families and leisure enthusiasts, crew vans offer a practical and flexible solution for various transportation needs.

Choosing the Right Crew Van

Selecting the ideal crew van for a business or personal use requires careful consideration of several factors. By assessing needs, comparing models, and considering budget constraints, individuals can make an informed decision that best suits their requirements.

Assess Your Needs

The first step in choosing the right crew van is to determine its primary use. Whether it's for work or personal purposes, the intended use will significantly influence the features and specifications needed. For businesses, it's crucial to consider the number of passengers that will be transported regularly. Crew vans typically offer seating for up to six people, making them ideal for small companies that need to move workers from one location to another.

Another important consideration is the cargo capacity required. While crew vans sacrifice some load space for additional seating, they still offer substantial cargo areas. It's essential to calculate the maximum payload needed, keeping in mind that this includes both passengers and equipment. Overloading a vehicle is illegal and can result in penalties, so it's vital to choose a van that can handle the required weight.

For those who plan to use the van for both work and family purposes, versatility becomes a key factor. Many crew vans offer features like Isofix points for child seats, making them suitable for weekend family trips as well as weekday work duties.

Compare Models Crew Vans

Once the specific needs have been identified, it's time to compare different crew van models. Several popular options are available in the market, each with its unique features and advantages.

The Ford Transit Custom Double Cab, for instance, is a popular choice among small businesses and owner-operators. It offers a six-seater capacity and can carry up to two Euro pallets in its L2 specification. The vehicle is known for its excellent cabin design and car-like driving experience.

The Volkswagen Transporter is another well-regarded option, available in two roof heights and two wheelbases. It's known for holding its value better than many rivals and has a strong, classy image that appeals to many businesses.

For those looking for a premium option, the Mercedes-Benz Vito Crew Van offers a well-finished and good-looking vehicle with an upmarket image. It comes with various height and wheelbase options, making it a versatile choice.

When comparing models, it's important to consider factors such as load space, payload capacity, fuel efficiency, and available features. Some vans offer additional benefits like overload indicators or advanced connectivity options, which may be valuable depending on specific business needs.

Consider Budget Crew Vans

Budget considerations play a crucial role in the decision-making process. The cost of a crew van can vary significantly based on factors such as brand, size, features, and whether it's new or used. It's important to set a realistic budget that takes into account not only the initial purchase price but also ongoing running costs. See Crew Van Leasing

Running costs to consider include van insurance, fuel consumption, road tax, and maintenance expenses. Some models may have higher upfront costs but offer better fuel efficiency or lower maintenance costs in the long run. It's worth calculating the total cost of ownership over the expected lifespan of the vehicle to make a more informed decision.

For those on a tighter budget, considering used crew vans or exploring different financing options might be beneficial. Some manufacturers offer competitive leasing or hire purchase agreements that can make newer models more accessible.

Customization Options

Crew vans offer a wide range of customization options to suit various needs and preferences. These modifications can enhance comfort, functionality, and esthetics, making the vehicle more suitable for specific business or personal requirements.

Seating Configurations

One of the most significant customization options for crew vans is the seating configuration. Various companies offer flexible seating solutions to accommodate different passenger capacities and cargo needs.

The Duovan, for instance, provides a 5-6 seat double cabin crew van conversion with a fixed 3-seat bench and ABS molded bulkhead in the second row. It includes ISOfix attachments on the two outer seats as standard. For those requiring more seating, the Duovan is also available in a 5-7 seat configuration with an optional 4-seat bench.

For maximum flexibility, the Duoliner offers a 3-9 seat crew van conversion with single removable seats installed on a twinplate rail system. This setup allows for easy reconfiguration of the interior space. Seat options include reclining backrests, folding backrests, tip-up seat bases, armrests, and ISOfix attachments.

The Multiliner takes versatility a step further, providing a 7-9 seat crew van conversion with six single removable seats in the second and third rows. This configuration is ideal for businesses that need to transport larger teams or families requiring ample seating.

For those seeking a more luxurious option, the Flexivan Business offers a 3-9 seat comfort crew van conversion with Caravelle-style passenger seats. These seats feature reclining and fold-flat backrests, armrests, and ISOfix attachments, all installed on a Flexi-Rail floor system.

Interior Upgrades

Interior upgrades can significantly enhance the comfort and functionality of a crew van. One of the most popular options is leather upholstery, which not only adds a touch of luxury but also improves durability and ease of cleaning. Companies like Swiss Vans offer a wide range of leather designs, seat swaps, and shape changes, with different color stitching options available.

Carpeting is another popular interior upgrade that can soften the esthetic and improve the feel of the van's interior. Many companies offer a wide choice of colors and can also provide soundproofing services to enhance comfort during travel.

Lighting upgrades, such as ceiling-mounted LED lights in the rear of the van, can increase visibility and create ambiance. Some conversion packages include options for USB sockets and speakers, further enhancing the van's functionality.

For improved organization and protection of the cargo area, ply lining is an excellent option. This hard-wearing lining is easy to clean and improves the overall appearance of the load space.

Exterior Modifications Crew Vans

Exterior modifications can enhance both the functionality and appearance of a crew van. Many companies offer styling options to make the van stand out. These can include chrome strips for the grille and central air intake, color-coded front lower splitters, and upper tailgate spoilers.

For increased utility, options such as roof rails, cross bars, and gallery racks can be added to increase the van's load-bearing capacity. Ladder racks are also available for those who need to transport longer items securely.

Some companies offer comprehensive styling packages, such as the C-sport, which includes exterior styling elements and suspension upgrades for a sportier look and driving experience.

Safety-focused exterior modifications are also available, such as the installation of amber lights to increase visibility on the road. Steps can be added to improve access to the cargo area, enhancing both safety and convenience.

These customization options allow crew van owners to tailor their vehicles to their specific needs, whether for business or personal use. From seating configurations that maximize passenger capacity to interior upgrades that enhance comfort and exterior modifications that improve functionality and esthetics, the possibilities for customizing a crew van are extensive.

Conclusion Crew Vans

Crew vans have proven to be versatile and practical vehicles, offering a perfect blend of passenger comfort and cargo space. Their ability to adapt to various needs, from transporting work crews to accommodating family road trips, makes them a valuable asset for businesses and individuals alike. The top models in the market, such as the Ford Transit Custom, Volkswagen Transporter, and Mercedes-Benz Vito, each bring their unique strengths to the table, catering to different preferences and requirements.

When choosing a crew van, it's crucial to consider factors like intended use, passenger capacity, cargo needs, and budget constraints. The wide range of customization options available allows users to tailor their vehicles to specific needs, enhancing both functionality and comfort. From flexible seating configurations to interior upgrades and exterior modifications, these options enable crew van owners to create a vehicle that perfectly suits their lifestyle or business requirements. In the end, crew vans stand out as a practical solution for those seeking a versatile and efficient mode of transportation.

FAQs Crew Vans

What are the top crew cab vans available for purchase?

Some of the best crew cab vans you can buy include the Ford Transit Custom Double Cab-In-Van, Volkswagen Transporter Kombi, Renault Trafic Crew Van, Mercedes Benz Vito Crew Van, Vauxhall Vivaro Doublecab, Peugeot Expert Crew Van, Citroen Berlingo Crew, and Nissan NV300 Crew Van.

How does a crew van differ from a panel van?

The primary distinction between a panel van and a crew van lies in the seating arrangement. Crew vans feature an additional row of seats, enabling them to transport more passengers. This makes them ideal for businesses that need to transport teams of workers.

Which van offers the most comfortable driving experience?

The level of comfort varies by the size of the van. For large vans, the Mercedes Sprinter is noted for its comfort. In the medium van category, the Ford Transit Custom leads, followed by the Volkswagen Transporter and Toyota Proace. For smaller options, consider the Ford Transit Connect.

What defines a crew cab van?

Crew cab vans are designed to transport both passengers and cargo, with a special emphasis on accommodating more passengers. They usually feature a second row of seats behind the driver and a spacious cargo area at the back.