Estate

Pick-Up

Citroën is probably most famous for its quirky design, and the latest cars from the brand live up to this tradition, featuring paintwork-protecting ‘Airbumps’ and eschewing the sporty looks favoured by most rivals.

Indeed, Citroën tends to keep away from sportiness altogether and instead tries to put comfort first.

Value (but not cheapness) is also key to the appeal of most Citroëns. And the company’s range includes everything from small hatchbacks (such as the C1 and C3) to big, family-friendly seven-seaters (the Spacetourer and Grand C4 Spacetourer).

The C3 Aircross SUV is another of its popular models, while a larger C5 Aircross is planned.

CITROEN

If you want a new car but would rather not spend much, Dacia is a great place to start your search.

This budget brand builds Britain’s cheapest new cars, the Sandero hatchback. And don’t think cheap automatically means corners have been cut, because the Sandero has been commended at the annual What Car? Car of the Year awards on numerous occasions.

Other Dacia models include the&nbsp;higher-riding Sandero Stepway, seven-seat Jogger, and rugged Duster SUV. And while these cost slightly more than the Sandero, they’re still priced aggressively enough that they’re really only competing directly with used cars.

Dacia manages this by borrowing mechanicals and technology from its owner, Renault, to minimise development costs.

DACIA

Modern Fiats fall into two categories: the retro models and those with more functional designs.

Cars in the first camp appeal to the heart and include the 124 Spider sports car and the 500 series: a hatchback, a convertible, an SUV and two MPVs.

By contrast, the remaining models rely on their practicality and attractive pricing, with the Panda city car, Tipo hatchback and Fullback pick-up truck all prime examples.

Fiat can trace its roots back to the 19th century but is now part of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles group, along with Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Jeep and Maserati.

FIAT

Ford builds some of the most popular cars in the UK, including the Fiesta and Focus hatchbacks.

This success is partly down to longevity and the fact that there’s a Ford dealer around every corner. However, it’s also because Fords tend to offer good value and be among the best cars in their respective classes to drive.

The company’s huge range also helps; it offers everything from the small – but surprisingly practical – Ka+ to the large and lavishly equipped Edge SUV.

Meanwhile, other highlights of the range include the S-Max and Galaxy people carriers, the Mondeo executive car and the Ranger pick-up.

FORD

If you’re in the market for a pick-up truck, chances are you’ll have heard of Isuzu. The Japanese brand makes buses and lorries for markets all over the world, but it’s most famous for the D-Max.

A rival to the Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara and Volkswagen Amarok, the D-Max pick-up is aimed at drivers who need rugged go-anywhere ability and lots of space, and for whom a conventional SUV just won’t cut it.

ISUZU

In the same way that Infiniti acts as Nissan’s premium arm, Lexus has a similar tie-in with Toyota. And since most of Toyota’s models are offered as hybrids, it’s no surprise to see the same from Lexus, although there are some traditional petrol engines, too.

The brand focuses heavily on SUVs – namely the NX and RX – but also has the CT hatchback, ES executive saloon and LS luxury car among its portfolio. More small and large SUVs are expected in the future.

Like Toyota, Lexus has built a very strong reputation for reliability and regularly finishes very close to the top of our annual Reliability Survey.

LEXUS

Mercedes’ line-up is vast – ranging from the A-Class family hatchback through to staple saloons such as the C-Class and E-Class, and onwards towards multiple SUVs, luxury saloons and even sports cars. Coupés and convertibles are thrown into the mix as well.

As one of the ‘big three’ German brands, Mercedes most often finds itself competing with Audi and BMW but more recently has found itself fending off Jaguar and Volvo, too.

Mercedes models are known for comfort. One example of this is the E-Class, because while the Audi A6 has a plusher interior and the BMW 5 Series handles better, the E-Class is probably the most comfortable for a long motorway journey.

MERCEDES-BENZ

Nissan turned up early to the SUV party, with its Qashqai paving the way for the countless models we see today. The Qashqai continues to sell in big numbers in the UK, too, and was also our overall Car of the Year in 2014.

Don’t think Nissan is just about SUVs, though. As well as the Qashqai, the smaller Juke and the larger X-Trail, the Japanese brand has the Micra hatchback, GT-R sports car and Navara pick-up truck.

Nissan was also one of the first big car makers to launch a fully electric car, with its latest Leaf being one of the best on the market.

Despite being based in Japan, Nissan has long committed to building cars in the UK, making several of its best-selling models at a huge factory in Sunderland.

NISSAN

Peugeot has its strongest model line-up for some years, with some of its cars now rated by our testers as being among the very best available.

Highlights focus around the firm’s newest SUVs, the 3008 and 5008. The 5008 was named Large SUV of the Year at the 2018 What Car? Awards, thanks to its appealing blend of space, interior quality and low running costs.

That bodes well for future launches, too, because many of the learnings from these cars will be passed on as new versions of existing cars are launched – something that could take many years, because the Peugeot range is so big, ranging from an entry-level supermini with the 108 to an executive saloon with the 508, up into the SUV range and also vans.

Buyers should evaluate some of the lower-rated cars in the range more carefully, though. Some are now quite old, and are subsequently left behind in terms of quality when compared with the opposition, making them below-average buys, in our estimation.

PEUGEOT

Hatchbacks, SUVs, hybrids, electric cars: Renault makes them all, in a variety of shapes and sizes, meaning&nbsp;it has a line-up designed to tempt pretty much everyone.

From the roadside, the standout feature of all its cars is design, with them instantly recognisable as members of the Renault family, without being so similar that they fall&nbsp;into the Russian doll trap. However, in terms of ability they're a mixed bag,&nbsp;ranging&nbsp;from very good to no better than average.

Models that fall into the former camp include the Clio small hatchback and Megane E-Tech electric car, while the smaller Zoe electric car is also impressive in most respects; it's just a pity Renault omits key safety kit.

On the other hand, the Captur, Arkana and Austral SUVs are all outclassed by several rivals.

Renault has some exciting new models planned, including a new Scenic (this time it will be an electric SUV instead of a conventionally powered MPV) and two cars that reimagine classic Renaults: the 4 and 5.

RENAULT

One of the greatest success stories in the car world of recent decades is Skoda’s rise to become a hugely credible mainstream maker of good-value, good-sense cars.

Central to that success has been its place within the VW Group, alongside the Volkswagen brand itself, plus the likes of Seat and Audi. That has given it access to exactly the same underpinnings for its cars as the other brands, and it has complemented this by adding its own developments, from the way the cars drive and ride through to the features they have and the pricing.

The result is a range that extends from a city car to a large executive saloon, with family and large seven-seat SUVs too. There’s a wide variety of petrol and diesel engines, all of which are competitive for the class.

As a result, Skoda has a range of cars that is almost entirely class-leading or among the class leaders, and it has enjoyed long-time success at the What Car? Awards as a result.

SKODA

Toyota is a company undergoing a quiet revolution, as it works hard to replace its sensible but somewhat bland reputation with one for being a bit more daring, in areas such as the styling of its cars and its enthusiastic leadership of cutting-edge technology, such as hybrid systems.

That process seems to be working for buyers, with the hugely popular and striking-looking C-HR SUV in particular attracting a great deal of interest. The latest version of the hybrid Prius is also rated highly by What Car?; it’s the first Prius to go on sale that our testers have felt can truly compete all round with existing petrol or diesel rivals.

However, it’s worth noting that this period of transition is also a work in progress, and that many of the firm’s cars are still rated as being no more than average among class rivals by our testers.

TOYOTA

Vauxhall has an incredibly diverse range of cars on sale, a few of which stand out above the class average. Add in the fact that it still offers some of the largest Target Price discounts in the market (something it is trying, without huge success, to cut back on), and there are very good reasons to consider buying one of its better models.

However, you need to choose carefully, because it is also a brand in transition. It has a newish parent company – the same one that owns Citroën, DS and Peugeot. And while Vauxhall’s newer models tend to be competitive, some of the others feel dated; a quick check of our star ratings will reveal which is which.

Still, given the recent success of sister brands Citroën and especially Peugeot, each new launch should make its range more appealing to buyers.

VAUXHALL

The VW Group famously spends more money on research and development than any rival – and as a result, perhaps it should be no surprise that our testers rate its cars so consistently highly.

The fact that many of those cars use the same underpinnings also helps, because it means that if they get it right once, they have the foundations to keep on getting it right.

However, the Volkswagen brand faces plenty of tough competition, often from within, because the rapidly rising Seat and Skoda brands that are also part of the group have access to the same technology.

VOLKSWAGEN

AMAROK

CADDY

CALIFORNIA

CARAVELLE

Citan

CRAFTER

D-MAX

DUCATO

Duster Commercial

e-Berlingo

e-NV200

e-Sprinter

E-Transit

Fiesta Van

HILUX

ID. BUZZ

ID Buzz Cargo

Kangoo

Kangoo E-Tech

LAND CRUISER

MULTIVAN

Partner

RANGER

Relay (2019)

SPRINTER

SUPERB

Talento

Tourneo Custom

Townstar

TRANSIT

TRANSIT CONNECT

Transit Courier

TRANSIT CUSTOM

Transit Nugget

TRANSPORTER

V CLASS

VIVARO

Vivaro (2019)

Vivaro-e

Zoe Van

Entry-level Life models get parking aids front and rear, plus a reversing camera, adaptive cruise control, a 10in infotainment system, LED headlights, plus 16in alloy wheels (17in for the eHybrid model). 

Life

Our favourite trim. Adds larger 20in wheels, a powered tailgate, additional ambient interior lighting, matrix LED headlights and the multi-flex board for the boot to everything you get with entry-level Life trim.

Style

volkswagen-id-buzz-long-term-test

volkwagen-id-buzz-long-term-test

The car Volkswagen ID Buzz Style SWB 77kWh Pro Run by Stuart Milne, digital editorWhy it’s here We want to find out if a more traditional MPV format can still make for an appealing and practical family car. And more importantly, if the funky styling can win over diehard petrolheads.Needs to Offer effortless practicality to families, yet be the consummate commuter car<hr />Mileage 14,970 Price £63,835 Target Price £60,335 Price as tested £66,945 Dealer price now £46,396 Private price now £41,241 Test range 205-260 miles Official range 255 miles Running costs (excluding depreciation) £777.84 (Electricity)<hr /><h3 dir="ltr">24 March, 2024 – Scooby snatched</h3>I would’ve got away with it if it wasn’t for you pesky kids! Despite my best efforts to hide it, the man from VW has taken back the Mystery Machine – AKA my <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/id-buzz/mpv/review/n24946">Volkswagen ID Buzz</a>. And this time it’s for good. Trying to hide it was always going to be fruitless, though, firstly because it’s big, orange and white. And secondly, it’s one of the most eye-catching and head-turning cars I’ve ever driven. It’s sparked countless car park conversations; I’ve lost count of the number of times people have told me how much it looks like Scooby-Doo’s psychedelic van.

Many of those chats were with drivers who are only just coming around to the idea of going electric. They’re sold on the retro styling and the lairy paint – so much, in fact, that they’re willing to put any electric car concerns firmly on the back burner. But are they right to be so excited?Well, after spending 10,000 miles and six months behind the wheel, it’s apparent that while the Buzz isn’t perfect, it’s a very good car indeed. At the outset, I wanted to find out if it could meld the efficiency required of a long-distance commuter car with the practicalities needed for family transport.The answer? Absolutely.In the summer, it easily managed 250 miles on a charge, with an efficiency figure of three miles per kilowatt hour. That’s impressive for what is essentially a big box. Meanwhile, in the depths of winter it dipped to around 200-220 miles; still not terrible for a 2.5-tonne MPV. It comfortably managed a trip from the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/volkswagen-id-buzz-long-term-test-report-5/n26447">Essex coast to deepest Somerset</a> without me suffering a whiff of range anxiety.

As for its credentials as a family car, here the Buzz is pretty much unbeatable. I’m really going to miss those sliding doors, even if they require a big shove to close and the runners are noisy. What’s more, space in the back is first-rate, and not once did I receive any complaints about the fact the rear windows don’t open.The Buzz is just as usable up front, with tremendous all-round visibility. Many SUVs feel low-slung by comparison, the driving position is very un-van-like, and with fold-down armrests and comfortable seats, it’s proved an exceptional long-distance cruiser.The huge door bins, dashboard cubbies and removable centre console are great, as is the vast square boot which, despite my best efforts, I’ve been unable to fully fill. But here’s one failing: while it’ll fit bulky cargo, it can’t carry a huge amount of weight. The 498kg payload capacity is 337kg less than that of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/eqv/mpv/review/n22795">Mercedes EQV</a> and 558kg less than the most capable <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/citroen/e-spacetourer/mpv/review/n22872">Citroen e-Spacetourer</a> can manage.

My Buzz has not been without its faults, either. The airbag software required a reset after a glitch <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/volkswagen-id-buzz-long-term-test-report-8/n26642">triggered a warning light</a>; one of the side doors would occasionally pop open on the latch when parked, setting off the alarm; and on several occasions, the infotainment crashed and needed to reboot itself.The only other dramas involved several <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/volkswagen-id-buzz-long-term-test-report-4/n26397">stone chips in the windscreen</a>. But despite being such a new car, there were enough replacement screens in stock for a quick replacement.Is the Buzz fun to drive? Not in the conventional sense, because it’s tall and heavy and not remotely sporty. Does that matter? Not really, because like the Mystery Machine, it’s enabled us to get out on all kinds of family adventures – if not haunted castles. My kids loved it, and the prospect of them climbing into the big, orange fun bus made it far easier to get them out of the house in the first place – a challenge many parents will appreciate.

Another reality of family life is keeping car interiors clean. And despite the Buzz’s size, this is really easy. The flat floor means it’s possible to push a Hoover over the rear carpet, and the removable centre console allows great access for cleaning. It’s just a shame the boot carpets have gone quite bobbly, and the driver’s floor mat is quite worn after 10,000 miles.Will I miss the Buzz? Definitely. I love how easily it’s become as much part of our family as Scooby was to Shaggy. I’ll miss knowing I have a vehicle that will swallow anything I could need to carry. And I’ll miss the conversations with strangers that it triggered on pretty much every journey. It’s a great car – as much for its tangible talents as the mysterious.For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter <a href="http://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a><h2><a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/volkswagen-id-buzz-long-term-test-report-8/n26642">Read more about our long-term Volkswagen ID Buzz &gt;&gt;</a></h2><h3><a href="https://www.whatcar.com/class/long-term-tests">Read about more long-term test cars &gt;&gt;</a></h3><hr />Buy a new car with What Car? Like the sound of the Volkswagen ID Buzz? If so, check out the latest<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/volkswagen/idbuzz/mpv/deals"> Volkswagen ID Buzz deals</a> available through our free <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/new-car-deals">New Car Deals</a> service. Our network of What Car? approved dealers use our <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/what-is-target-price/n1433">Target Price</a> discounts (the most our mystery shoppers think you should pay) as the basis for their savings.

Volkswagen ID Buzz long-term test

Volkwagen ID Buzz long-term test

<h2>What we're looking for </h2><ul><li>Long range and ultra-fast charging capability</li> <li>Luxurious and comfortable interior</li> <li>Smooth ride and capable handling</li> <li>Lots of high-tech driver aids</li> <li>Strong performance and great refinement</li></ul>

Large Electric

watch-how-ford-dominated-the-2024-what-car-van-awards

We’d like to think a What Car? Van Award sits among the most prestigious, trusted and valued trophies in the commercial vehicle sector. After all, What Car? uses the extensive expert insight and discerning credentials of its vastly experienced road-test team to spot, identify and name the most hard-working, the most versatile, the most intelligently connected and the most financially savvy vans on the market today. And that’s why Ford can naturally be thrilled with its performance in the What Car? Van Awards over the last two years. Back in 2023, Ford won an unprecedented five out of 10 trophies, becoming the most successful manufacturer in the history of the What Car? Van Awards. Now, in 2024, Ford has done it once again, snatching another five trophies with the capacious all-electric Ford E-Transit, the best-selling Ford Ranger pick-up, and the All-New Ford Transit Custom. It’s testament to the sheer breadth and depth of Ford’s commercial vehicle line-up. So, in order to find out exactly why Ford’s vans deserve such acclaim, we’ve picked the brains of our expert editors to explain exactly why Ford’s award-winning lineup is so good.<a href="https://www.ford.co.uk/commercial-vehicles" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">Learn more about the Ford Pro lineup</a><hr />

<h3>Ford E-Transit: Best Large Van and Best Large Electric Van</h3>The all-electric Ford E-Transit has plenty of room to carry more than a few trophies; and it needs it. Not only did it win the Best Large Van and Best Large Electric Van in both 2023 and 2024, it was also named the overall What Car? Van of the Year in 2023. It all comes down to the Ford E-Transit’s outstanding load-lugging ability (up to 1758kg[1] and 15.1m3 of load volume) its smooth and torquey acceleration (up to 269PS and 430Nm), its impressive all-electric real-world range (up to 196 miles[2]), its outstanding value, and its near-endless adaptability and configurability.But the overarching reason why the Ford E-Transit has scored so much success is far more poignant, as What Car? editor Steve Huntingford explains: “The Ford E-Transit represents a watershed moment for electric vans. From now on, rather than seeing if one will fit into their operations, fleet managers will need a good reason not to go electric.” While the Ford E-Transit wasn’t named overall winner in the 2024 What Car? Van Awards, our discerning road test team still had plenty to say when we asked them about its two category wins: “We’re not just talking about Best Large Electric Van, we’re talking about Best Large Van, period,” they said. “The fact that the Ford E-Transit is electric is completely by-the-by. Regardless of what powers it, the Ford E-Transit still has the measure of all the other large vans out there. “Why? Well, because the best large vans not only need to be adept at shifting large, heavy loads in a manner that’s as easy and as fuss-free as possible. But they also need to offer the versatility to suit all manner of different uses, and the financial package to make their use affordable – nay, profitable – for businesses. The Ford E-Transit nails all of these diverse briefs perfectly, and it does so in a way that makes it an even more compelling alternative to any of its diesel-powered rivals. “Add in a relatively plush driver environment with plenty of storage and a slick 12.0in touchscreen infotainment system inspired by the Ford Mustang Mach-E electric SUV, and the Ford E-Transit is also one of the most pleasant large vans in which to spend time.” <a href="https://www.ford.co.uk/vans-and-pickups/e-transit" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">Find out more about the Ford E-Transit</a><hr />

<h3>Ford Ranger: Best Pick-up Truck</h3>Used by everyone from farmers and landscapers to builders and electricians, pick-up trucks are among the most hard-working and versatile commercial vehicles available, striking the perfect balance between work and play. So, which is the very best one you can buy right now? Well, that would be the Ford Ranger. With head-turning looks, class-leading towing ability (up to 3500kg[3]), outstanding payload capacity (up to 1200kg[4]), heaps of clever connected technology, staggering off-road performance and a wide range of trims and engines to choose from, it quickly becomes obvious why the Ford Ranger isn’t just our overall pick-up of the year, but the best-selling truck in the UK. “The latest incarnation of the Ford Ranger is even more deserving of its sales success than ever,” said the What Car? road test team. “Its chunky Tonka-toy styling – largely borrowed from the enormous Ford F-150 truck from across the Atlantic – immediately gives it a level of desirability that rivals can’t even hope to match, and that’s without upgrading to the higher-end Ford Ranger Wildtrak models that have become popular thanks to their big wheels, chrome garnishes and fancy interiors. “XL trim Ford Rangers are the utilitarian workhorses of the range with plastic bumpers and steel wheels, while the XLT is slightly smarter, with a bit less plastic and more painted metal parts. A reliable 2.0-litre engine with 168bhp does the grunt work, while a 10in version of the portrait touchscreen found in the high-end Ford Ranger models provides all the infotainment functionality that buyers expect. “As well as a sizeable load bed and payload capacity of up to 1200kg[4] with a single cab, or up to1098kg[5] as a double cab, the Ford Ranger XL and XLT are the most versatile trucks in the range, and are further improved by the option of Ford’s power to box system, which supplies 240v and 12v power outlets in the load bed for powering tools. “The Ford Ranger XL would be our top choice, since it allows you to have the single cab while keeping costs low. And like all Ford Rangers, has the ability to excel off-road, while also managing to keep you feeling comfortable and civilised on it. “More traditional working pick-up trucks like the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max are just as capable off-road, but the Ford Ranger’s superior comfort and refinement – not to mention its more pleasant interior and more sophisticated on-board tech – make it a more complete and appealing package.” <a href="https://www.ford.co.uk/vans-and-pickups/ranger" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">Find out more about the Ford Ranger</a><hr />

<h3>Ford Transit Custom: Best Medium Van and Overall Van of the Year </h3>Britain’s love affair with the Ford Transit stretches back more than five decades, and in that time the Transit has become a staple of British business – powering tens of thousands of companies across the nation to success. Now, the All-New Ford Transit Custom is poised to work harder and smarter for businesses owners and fleet drivers than ever before. Available in three body styles and with two lengths and roof heights to choose from, as well as an extensive choice of powertrains – from ultra-efficient Ford EcoBlue diesel power to the plug-in hybrid, and most recent addition to the lineup, the all-electric E-Transit Custom – the Ford Transit Custom will not only cope with anything your business can throw at it, but it can also help you along the path to electrification. Throw in a wealth of smart connected technology that works with the advanced online services and in-person expertise of Ford Pro™, a range of well-equipped trim levels and a bucketload of Ford-approved conversion options, and you’ll struggle to find a better all-round van. Our What Car? road testers agree. “Quite simply, the new second-generation Ford Transit Custom does what Transits have always done, and that’s to go above-and-beyond in every area,” they said. “It’s by far and away the best van of its type to drive, with peerless comfort, impressive refinement and more driving engagement than a van has any right to offer. “It’s also among the most practical and versatile vans of its type, and with a high-quality cab and lots of tech, it’s a genuinely pleasant place in which to spend large portions of your working day. “What we really like, though, is the way that Ford has listened to the feedback of customers and solved problems. This has resulted in clever features like Delivery Assist[6], which is designed to speed up deliveries by automating actions like switching on the hazard lights, closing windows, and locking the doors when the driver leaves the van. There’s also the optional picnic table add-on to the steering wheel that allows drivers to eat their lunch in comfort – a clever touch which makes a big difference. “Of course, all this would be in vain if Ford hiked prices to prohibitive levels. Sure, they’ve crept up a fraction, but the Ford Transit Custom still looks like great value for money compared with rivals, meaning businesses won't have to break the bank to get one onto their fleets. As an all-round package, then, the All-New Ford Transit Custom is nigh-on impossible to fault.” <a href="https://www.ford.co.uk/vans-and-pickups/new-transit-custom" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">Find out more about the Ford Transit Custom</a> [1] Max payload available on 425 GVM Medium Wheelbase, Medium Roof E-Transit Van. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and weight distribution. Max payload varies and is based on accessories and vehicle configuration. [2] Based on 390 Series L2 H2 with full charge. Estimated range using Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). Figures shown are for comparability purposes and should only be compared with other vehicles tested to the same technical procedures. Actual range varies with conditions such as external elements like temperature, driving behaviours, route profile, vehicle maintenance, and lithium-ion battery age and condition. 166-mile WLTP Extra High range reflects motorway driving and 196-mile WLTP Overall Range reflects a  combined driving cycle– both tests are conducted in controlled conditions with an ambient temperature of 23 degrees Celsius and no climate or electrical load. [3] Max towing varies based on cargo, vehicle configuration, accessories and number of passengers

WATCH: How Ford dominated the 2024 What Car? Van Awards

What Car? Van Awards 2024 – Ford wins big AGAIN | What Car? | Sponsored

Medium Van

new-isuzu-d-max-bev-electric-pick-up-truck-to-arrive-next-year

Ford

Ranger

MAXUS

On sale: Late 2025 | Price from: £50,000 (est, excl. VAT)Whether you're in the market for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/small-cars/n16997">small car</a> or a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-large-vans/n20727">large van</a>, there are now plenty of electric choices which let you contribute to a healthier planet, as well as lowering your running costs. <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/pick-up-trucks/n19493">Pick-up trucks</a>, however, have arguably been slow to catch on, because there are precious few electric models to choose from. And that's why the upcoming <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/isuzu/d-max/pick-up/review/n17221">Isuzu D-Max</a> BEV is big news indeed.When it goes on sale – likely towards the end of 2025, though Isuzu says it will asses both market demand and the state of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/electric-car-charging-networks-rated/n23269">UK's charging network</a> before doing so – the D-Max BEV will be one of only two electric pick-up trucks available to buyers. The other is the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/maxus/t90-ev/pick-up/review/n25621">Maxus T90EV</a>, which we like for its green credentials, but its lack of four-wheel drive could be an issue if you need to travel off-road. Fortunately, the D-Max BEV will have permanent four-wheel drive as standard.

Isuzu has yet to confirm how many miles the D-Max BEV will be able to cover on a charge, but its 66.9kWh battery is smaller than that of the T90EV, and that model can officially take you 220 miles. Power in the Isuzu comes from two electric motors – one for each set of wheels – which produce a combined 174bhp, along with 249lb ft of torque. In both cases, that's slightly more than is offered from the 1.9-litre diesel engine which powers the regular D-Max.Officially, the D-Max BEV will be able to carry more than a tonne, meaning it will qualify for the favourable tax incentives awarded to double-cab pick-up trucks – meaning that running one as a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-company-cars/n22605">company car</a> could prove to be very cheap.Previewed in concept form for now, the D-Max BEV gets a more rounded look than the regular, combustion-engined D-Max, with a closed-off front grille and blue accents to highlight its electric power. We're not expecting much change over the regular D-Max in terms of how well the electric model copes with people – that's a good thing, because three adults can sit across the regular car's rear bench in comfort, while front-seat passengers have plenty of room to stretch out.

Prices for the Isuzu D-Max BEV are a long way from being confirmed, but we'd expect it to cost from around £50,000 (excl. VAT). That price would make it competitive next to the Maxus T90EV.Further electric pick-up trucks are expected to arrive soon, with the KGM 0100 – based on an extended version of the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kgm/torres/estate/review/n26617">KGM Torres EVX</a> electric SUV – expected to offer a range of close to 300 miles, and Ford reportedly developing a small electric pick-up to launch in 2026. The Tesla Cybertruck is also due to come to the UK, although its timing here is unknown.Our current favourite pick-up truck, the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/ranger/4x4/review/n17250">Ford Ranger</a>, isn't available with electric power, but a plug-in hybrid version is due to arrive in 2025.For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter <a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a><h2>Read more<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/class/vans"> van new, reviews and advice &gt;&gt;</a></h2>

New Isuzu D-Max BEV electric pick-up truck to arrive next year

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Go-anywhere capability</li> <li>Work-ready load bay</li> <li>Robust, durable yet also pleasant interior</li> <li>Commanding driving position</li> <li>Heavyweight towing capacity</li></ul>

The popularity of pick-up trucks is growing in the UK, thanks in part to a fixed-rate company car tax for business users, due to them being categorised as light commercial vehicles.

But it's not just those savings to your wallet that makes the pick-up a compelling buy; incredibly durability, huge towing capacity and the surprising about of technology available means the majority are worthy for much more than just working on building sites.&nbsp;

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On sale Summer 2024 | Price from £70,000 (est)Could the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/idbuzz/mpv/review/n24946">Volkswagen ID Buzz</a> GTX be the craziest new car of 2024? Quite possibly, because it’s a performance version of the retro electric family car that we named our 2023 <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/awards/new-car-awards">Car of the Year</a>. Now, being a hot electric <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/mpvs-and-people-carriers/n17001">MPV</a> places the ID Buzz GTX in a unique position, because it’s effectively in a class of one. In fact, the only cars which come close to it include the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/hyundai/ioniq-5-n/hatchback/review/n26318#buying-owning">Hyundai Ioniq 5 N</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/kia/ev6/estate/review/n24838">Kia EV6 GT</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/tesla/model-y/hatchback/review/n23624">Tesla Model Y</a> Performance, all of which are super-quick <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/electric-suvs/n23038">electric SUVs</a>.

What makes the ID Buzz GTX slightly different to those cars, though, is the fact it will be available with five, six or <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/7-seat-cars/n2344">seven seats</a>. Currently, the ID Buzz is only offered in the UK with five seats and in short-wheelbase (SWB) form, but this is due to change as the long-wheelbase (LWB) model arrives in the UK this summer alongside the GTX version. A six-seat version of the SWB model will also be offered.The ID Buzz GTX is powered by two electric motors; one drives the front wheels and the other the rears, making it four-wheel drive. The two motors combine to produce 335bhp, which means the GTX can sprint from 0-62mph in 6.5sec. That’s much slower than the Ioniq 5 N (3.4sec), EV6 GT (3.5sec) and Model Y Performance (3.7sec), but those cars are considerably more powerful.

Two batteries will be offered in the ID Buzz GTX: a 79kWh (usable) battery in the SWB and a 86kWh (usable) battery in the LWB version. The official ranges for both are expected to be around 250 miles, which is similar to the Ioniq 5 N (266 miles) and EV6 GT (263 miles), but less than the Model Y Performance (319 miles).Charging speeds for the ID Buzz GTX depend on the version you go for, with the 79kWh battery having a maximum rate of 175kWh and the 86kWh battery a rate of 200kW. This means a 10-80% top-up with a suitably powerful <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/electric-car-charging-networks-rated/n23269">public charger</a> will take around 25 minutes for the former and 30 minutes for the latter. That’s around the same time as the Model Y, but less than the Ioniq 5 N and EV6 GT.

The benefit of having two electric motors in the ID Buzz GTX is that it has a much improved towing capacity compared with the single motor ID Buzz. As such, the maximum capacity is rated at 1800kg for the SWB and 1600kg for the LWB, which is an increase of 800kg and 600kg respectively. This means the GTX should be able to tow larger caravans and trailers, matching the maximum capacity of the EV6 GT (1800kg).The design of the GTX is similar to the regular ID Buzz, although there are several key styling details that lend it a racier look, including a unique front bumper design, a honeycomb grille and triangular LED daytime running lights. All GTX models come with 19in alloy wheels as standard, while 21in alloys are optional.

Seven solid and five two-tone paint colours are available, including 'Cherry' red which can be matched with 'Mono' metallic silver to create a two-tone paint finish, which is shown in our pictures.The ID Buzz GTX features Volkswagen’s new infotainment system, which is housed in a 12.9in infotainment screen (up from 12.0in in the regular car). We’ve tried the new system in the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/id7/saloon/review/n26282">Volkswagen ID 7</a>, and can confirm that it’s much easier to use than the old system, with a more intuitive layout and a quicker response. It also comes with integrated ChatGPT (which will be added later via a software update), as well as the fiddly touch-sensitive sliders for the climate and volume controls, although these are now backlit so you can see them while driving at night.

We’ve had the chance to sit inside the new ID Buzz GTX, and can confirm that interior quality is poor in places, with plenty of hard and scratchy plastics used throughout the interior. The Ioniq 5 N and EV6 GT are much better in this area.More positively, space is very good, with acres of head and leg room in the front, while second row passengers will have plenty of the same, too – even if they’re more than six-feet tall. We’ve also had the chance to sit in the third row of the LWB model, and confirm that there’s plenty of head and leg room back there as well.

The GTX's 1121-litre boot space matches that of the regular ID Buzz SWB, although that's boosted to 1340 litres in the LWB version with five seats in place. That’s more than double the size of the Ioniq 5 N (527 litres) and EV6 GT (490 litres).Full UK specifications for the ID Buzz GTX are yet to be confirmed, but we can expect prices to start from around £70,000 for the SWB and £75,000 for the LWB. This means it’ll be priced well above the Ioniq 5 N (£65,000), EV6 GT (£62,675) and Model Y Performance (£59,990).<hr />For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter <a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a><h2>Read more: <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/electric-cars/n17000">Best electric cars</a> &gt;&gt;</h2>

New Volkswagen ID Buzz GTX: four-wheel drive and 335bhp

New Volkswagen ID Buzz GTX revealed

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Getting a fine and points for <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/owning/speeding-fines-tickets-and-penalties-guide/n15071">speeding</a> in your van is always going to make you feel hard done by. “Why me?”, you may cry. But the truth is, there really is one for rule for some, and one rule for others, because vans are often subject to different speed limits than cars, and these limits are often lower. What’s more, these lower limits apply to pick-up trucks and vehicles that are <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/best-vans-for-towing/n20242">towing trailers</a>. Ignorance is no excuse, so it’s any driver’s responsibility to know what the speed limit is for their vehicle, be it a van or one of the others already mentioned, even if you don’t drive them regularly. So, the next time you hire a van, tow a trailer, or borrow a friend’s pick-up, it’ll pay to read up on what limits apply in different areas. That’s why we’ve published the speed limits that apply to these types of vehicle.However, something else to bear in mind is not what you’re driving, but where you’re driving it. That’s because Wales has different speed limits in Wales from Scotland, England and Northern Ireland. If you’re in any doubt about what limits apply, then look up <a href="https://www.gov.uk/speed-limits">the Government’s website</a>, and you’ll have all the information you need.<hr /><h2>Motorway speed limits for vans</h2>

If you regularly drive your van on the motorway, the good news is that in most cases the speed limit is 70mph. This limit applies if you’re driving a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-small-vans/n20723">small van</a>, a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/best-medium-vans/n20726">medium-sized van</a>, dual-purpose vehicle, or a goods vehicle up to 7.5 tonnes.So, it doesn’t matter if you’re in a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/dacia/duster-commercial/van/review/n25152">Dacia Duster Commercial</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/toyota/corolla/estate/review/n24583">Toyota Corolla Commercial</a> or a double-cab pick-up truck, such as the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/ranger/4x4/review/n17250">Ford Ranger</a>. As long as it weighs less than 2040kg unladen, the 70mph limit will apply. And if you’re driving a goods vehicle (aka a large van) that weighs less than 7500kg, then you can still legally drive at 70mph on the motorway.Meranwhile, if you’re driving a motorhome on the motorway, you can do 70mph whether or not the vehicles weighs more or less than 3.05 tonnes. And finally, if you’re driving a bus that is less than 12 metres long, then the 70mph limit applies, but if it’s more than 12m long, then you must not travel faster than 60mph.<hr /><h2>Dual-carriageway speed limits for vans</h2>

This is where things start to become a little more tricky, because if you’re driving a smaller van or a dual-purpose vehicle, then the maximum speed you can travel on a dual carriageway is 70mph, but if you’re in a medium van such as the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/transporter/van/review/n18205">Volkswagen Transporter</a>, or a large van (think <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/e-transit/van/review/n24074">Ford E-Transit</a>), then the maximum speed limit is suddenly 60mph. Some <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/best/pick-up-trucks/n19493">pick-up trucks</a> will also be subject to the 60mph limit on a dual carriageway. This limit will apply if the truck is a single-cab truck, and if it weighs more 2040kg, because this means it isn’t a dual-purpose vehicle. A minibus that’s less then 12m long must also drive at a maximum of 60mph, the same as larger buses.<hr /><h2>Single-carriageway speed limits for vans</h2>As you’d expect, the lower the road classification, the slower the speed limit becomes. So, when you get on to single-carriageway roads, the limit for car-derived small vans and dual-purpose vehicles becomes 60mph.Any van weighing up to 7.5 tonnes is limited to a maximum of 50mph, although this limit also applies to vehicles that weigh more than 7.5t, unless they’re in Scotland, where a 40mph limit is in force.And buses must do a maximum of 50mph, no matter whether they’re longer or shorter than 12m.Speed limiters are mandatory for any vehicle that can carry more than eight passengers, but even if one is fitted the driver remains responsible for the speed of the vehicle.<hr /><h2>Van speed limits in built-up areas</h2>

This is when it pays to know the speed limits in the area you’re driving in. So, if you’re driving in a built-up area in Scotland, England or Northern Ireland, then the maximum speed limit is 30mph. However, if you’re in Wales, a blanket 20mph limit applies in any built-up area. These limits apply regardless of the size, weight or classification of the vehicle you’re driving.<hr /><h2>Van speed limits when towing</h2>

If you’re <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/advice/buying/best-vans-for-towing/n20242">towing a trailer</a> (including driving an articulated vehicle), then a good rule of thumb is to knock 10mph off the speed limit that applies when you’re not towing.So, if you can usually do 70mph on the motorway when not towing, you’ll be limited to 60mph with a trailer. And if you’d normal adhere to a 60mph limit on a single-carriageway road, then a 50mph limit will apply when towing.These towing limits are lower to minimise the chances of the trailer starting to ‘snake’, and to give you more chance to get everything back on the straight-ahead.However, when you get to built-up areas, the normal limits will be in force, dependent on whether you’re driving in Scotland, England or Northern Ireland (30mph) or Wales (20mph).<hr />

<h2 dir="ltr">Van speed limit FAQs</h2>Do speed cameras recognise vans?Yes, many do. Speed-detection systems are becoming ever-more advanced, and are linked to the ANPR database, so they know what the vehicle is, and what speed limit it should be adhering to. How far away can speed vans detect?Speed camera vans are now so advanced that they can now detect you more than a mile away. However, they work only on a straight road, because they cannot yet see round corners.Can you check if you’ve been caught speeding?No, there is no way to do this. The only way you’ll know if you’ve been caught is when the Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) is posted through your letterbox.How much does three points affect insurance?For a start, you must tell your insurer or your fleet manager if you receive an NIP. Three points will affect your insurance by around 5%. However, get done a second time, and your insurance cost is likely to jump by as much as 25% come renewal time.Can I apply to do a speed-awareness course?No, you cannot ask to do this. This is offered at the discretion of the police, and there are a few criteria, which vary from force to force. You must have been caught doing less than 10% plus 9mph over the limit, and it must be your first speeding offence in the past three years. Speeding must also be the only offence you were committing at the time.For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter <a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a><h2>Read more<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/class/vans"> van new, reviews and advice &gt;&gt;</a></h2>

What is the speed limit for a van?

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These vehicles are often considered as the first run on the commercial vehicle ladder. They're typically smaller than the smallest actual vans, but have been modified to maximise the cargo space inside – something usually achieved by losing the rear row of seats.

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Need to load up several people and all of their luggage for a big road trip? A van-based MPV could be the answer to your prayers. Although these vehicles are heavily based on commercial vehicles, most will include higher quality materials than their working siblings, and creature comforts designed to keep everyone comfy. Most are spacious, too, with a boot large enough to accommodate multiple large suitcases – even if every seat is also filled.

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