Used van market stays healthy says Glass's

Date: Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Second-hand light vans are so popular at present that supply is struggling to keep pace with demand says Glass’s Guide to Commercial Vehicle Values. “If the shortage gets worse then prices will rise further,” says guide editor, George Alexander.

Ford Fiesta Vans are proving popular at present, he says, with ex-BT examples particularly sort after because they’re reckoned to be well-maintained and properly presented. “Vauxhall Corsavans also find homes if offered with sensible mileages,” he adds. Renault’s Clio Van and Peugeot’s 206 Van are rather less well received, however. “They struggle unless they’re presented in good condition,” he says.

The current-shape Volkswagen Caddy has plenty of fans, says Alexander and Ford’s Transit Connect continues to hold its own. They’re likely to be snapped up especially quickly if they’ve got lots of goodies. “Across the board, lightly used, late-year, highly-specced light vans or those boasting sports features and extra power are proving to be the most desirable,” he observes.

Moving up the size and weight scale, Volkswagen’s T5 Transporter out-performs everything in its sector, while low mileage, high horsepower Mercedes-Benz Vitos command a premium. Short-wheelbase Ford Transits are eagerly sought after too, but long-wheelbase examples aren’t nearly as popular. Perhaps surprisingly, the few ageing examples of LDV’s Cub and Nissan’s Vanette that appear continue to be snapped up. “They’re popular with cost-conscious buyers who appreciate their versatile design,” he says.

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