If you’re looking for a work van, but new-vehicle prices have you gasping, look at these used models. Older but “new-to-you” vehicles make perfect work vans.

Here are the five pre-owned work van models that are among the best. You can usually find at least a few of these for sale in your area at any time.

1.   2006-2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Sprinter is arguably the van model that brought tall cargo vans into the mainstream and led to the end of traditional designs like the Ford Econoline. Sprinters have been sold under the Mercedes, Volkswagen, Dodge, and Freightliner brands. No matter the badge, however, the van itself is the same.

With the 2022 Mercedes model now in showrooms, prices are dropping on older models, but expect to pay a higher price than for other models on this list.

2.   2015-2019 Ford Transit

Ford has made America’s best-selling work vans for over 40 years. The 2015 Transit was the current-generation model produced and has already appeared on many “best work van” lists.

Ford Transit models for the 2015 through 2019 model years are equipped with one of three engine options:

  • 7-L V6: Standard option.
  • 5-L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V6: Upgrade with a gas engine and best-in-class torque.
  • 2-L Inline-5 Power Stroke Turbo-Diesel: Economical and 185HP.

Ford Transit work vans are well known for dependability. They stay in high demand regardless of depreciation.

3.   2015-2019 Ram ProMaster City

Based on the Fiat Doblo, this is the modern replacement for the C/V Tradesman. The ProMaster City offers a best-in-class cargo capacity of 131.7 cubic feet with plenty of space to transport heavy equipment, appliances, and packages.

Features include a 2.4L Tigershark Inline-4 engine with 178 HP, 174 lb-ft of torque, and a 1,855-pound payload. The estimated highway mileage is 28mp.

4.   2016-2019 Mercedes-Benz Metris

The Metris was produced with work in mind, and its interior is austere even in the passenger model. The 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 7-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive puts out 208HP and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Payload capacity is 2,502 pounds, and cargo volume is 38 cubic feet. When equipped with a trailer hitch, the Metris can tow 4,960 pounds. At 202.4 inches in length, it’s larger than a Ford Transit but smaller than the Mercedes Sprinter.

5.   1996-2019 Chevrolet Express

General Motors (GM) is the only major vehicle manufacturer still offering an old-fashioned body-on-frame, truck-derived work van. Although the Express looks less modern than others on this list – its design has remained virtually unchanged since 1996 – they remain a very popular workhorse.

Engines include a 6.0L V8 with 341 HP that can tow up to 10,000 lbs. This is an excellent fit if you need serious, heavy-duty hauling and towing capabilities.

Given the lack of design changes since 1996, an older used model in good condition will provide much the same functionality at a lower price than more recent models. Even high-mileage units can be relied on to last a long time with proper maintenance.

Customize Your Pre-Owned Work Van with Commercial Van Solutions

Commercial Van Solutions can help customize your new-to-you work van! We are your vehicle upfitting experts and will make your van more efficient, safer, and ergonomic. As our company slogan goes, “Think inside the box.” Contact us today to learn more.