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Pros and Cons of Buying Vs. Leasing a Van

Most people looking for a van in the UK, either for commercial or personal use, often struggle with whether they should purchase or lease the vehicle. Both the cases have their own pros and cons that should be thoroughly analyzed to make the right decision.

In this article, we’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of buying vs. leasing a van to help you decide-

Buying a Van

Pros

1. You Own the Van

The biggest advantage of buying a van is the ownership it comes with. Unlike leasing where you’re basically renting the van for a specified period, buying gives you ownership of the vehicle.

Even if you purchase the van through a loan, every monthly payment will get you closer to own a vehicle. Once the loan is fully repaid, you’ll be the rightful owner of the van. So, the purchased van is yours to keep and can be a valuable addition to your personal or business assets.

2. Freedom to Customize the Van

When you’re the owner of the van, you have complete freedom to customize it the way you like. This is especially useful when you need the van for commercial use as you can customize it according to the preferences and specific needs of your business.

Be it adding some specialized equipment, interior modifications, or branding, ownership provides complete flexibility to tailor the van as per your requirements.

3. Zero Mileage Restrictions

When you take the van on lease, the lease contract will feature a fixed mileage for which you can use the vehicle during the lease period. Go beyond the mileage limit and you’ll be required to pay an additional fee depending on the extra miles. But with ownership, there are no such mileage restrictions.

You have complete freedom to use the van as much as required without worrying about any mileage limitations or extra costs.

4. No Other Extra Charges

Lease agreements also generally come with a host of other restrictions, which if you’re not fully aware of, could lead to significant expenses. For instance, if you’d like to terminate the lease before the decided lease period, you’ll have to pay a penalty fee.

There are other restrictions related to excessive wear, maintenance, etc., that could make the entire process of leasing more expensive. But you don’t have to worry about these restrictions or penalties if you own the van.

5. Cost Savings Over Time

While the initial upfront cost of buying a van is higher than leasing, ownership can result in significant cost savings over time. Once the loan is fully repaid, you no longer have to worry about any monthly payments.

On the other hand, if you’re leasing the van, there will be an ongoing monthly payment as long as you use the vehicle.

Cons

1. Higher Upfront Payment

One of the most significant reasons why many people prefer leasing a van is the higher upfront cost of purchasing. In the UK, you’re required to pay at least 10% of the van cost as a down payment when buying it through a loan. The down payment could be as high as 30% in some cases depending on loan eligibility.

For most people with limited capital, this higher upfront cost is a significant barrier. In comparison, leasing is considerably cheaper.

2. Maintenance Costs

When you’re the owner, you’re fully responsible for anything and everything that goes wrong with the vehicle. Apart from the routine maintenance costs, there can also be expensive unexpected repairs as the van ages.

Irrespective of whether you’re using the van for commercial or personal use, these repair costs can put a considerable dent in your finances.

3. Higher Insurance Costs

While you’ll have to pay for insurance irrespective of whether you’re buying or leasing the van, the premiums are generally higher with ownership. The owner is completely responsible for comprehensive coverage and potential liability of the vehicle.

Depending on the usage, make, and model of the van, the insurance premiums could be a significant ongoing cost with van ownership.

4. Long-Term Commitment

As a van owner, you’ll commit yourself to the same vehicle for several years. In most cases, you’ll be using the vehicle for at least 5-7 years. But what if during this period, the transportation needs of your business start to change? Or what if you’d like to upgrade to a newer van with improved features?

You’ll then have to get into the time and effort-consuming process of selling the existing van and then purchasing a new one. In most cases, buyers are unable to recover the initial investment of the existing van.

5. Van Depreciation

Another significant downside of buying a van is depreciation. With time, the market price of your van will fall due to depreciation. This will impact the resale value of the vehicle.

It is generally said that vehicles lose at least 15%-30% of their market price in the very first year. From the second year onwards, it continues to lose 10%-15% of its value every year on average.

Leasing a Van

Pros

1. Lower Initial Deposit and Monthly Payments

If you’re concerned about the high down payment of purchasing a brand-new van, leasing can be a better option. Apart from the down payment itself, even the monthly payments of a lease are considerably lower than monthly loan installments.

The affordability of van leasing makes it a preferred choice for many people who want to acquire a van for personal or commercial use in the UK.

2. Access to Newer Van Models

As discussed above, van buying requires you to commit yourself to a single model for many years. But with leasing, you can drive newer models with the latest features and technologies without the long-term ownership commitment.

This can be highly beneficial for businesses that abundantly rely on their van fleet for their day-to-day operations and want to maintain a reliable and modern fleet.

3. Switch or Purchase the Van

Most lease agreements allow you to either return the van or purchase it at the end of the lease. If you’d like to upgrade to a newer model, you can do so once the lease ends. Alternatively, if the van has become a critical part of your daily operations, you also have the option to buy it.

The flexibility to upgrade to a new van or purchase the leased van is another reason that makes leasing an excellent choice, especially for commercial applications.

4. Lower Repair Costs

When you lease a van, it is generally covered under the manufacturer’s warranty throughout the lease period. In other words, you can avoid significant repair costs if you maintain the vehicle as per the terms and conditions mentioned in the lease agreement.

Moreover, many van leasing companies offer a variety of add-ons like maintenance packages, roadside assistance, and more to offer enhanced convenience.

5. Tax Benefits

Leasing a van in the UK for commercial use can also offer a variety of tax benefits. For instance, businesses generally claim back a certain portion of VAT applicable on lease payments and deduct these payments as a business expense.

The tax benefits can offer considerable savings and enable companies to improve their bottom line.

Cons

1. You Don’t Own the Vehicle

The biggest drawback of van leasing is the lack of ownership. Unlike loan installments where each installment increases your equity in the van, monthly lease payments only contribute to van usage. Once the lease ends, you have to return the vehicle or enter into a new lease.

On the other hand, if you purchase the van through a loan, you become the owner once you fully repay the loan amount.

2. Mileage Restrictions

Another significant disadvantage of van leasing in the UK is the mileage restriction. If you exceed the mileage limit mentioned in the lease agreement, you’ll have to pay a penalty. And it is not always easy to know how many miles your van will be driven in a year when signing the lease agreement.

When you purchase the van, there are no such restrictions and you’re free to drive the van for as many miles as you want.

3. Wear and Tear Penalty

While lease agreements generally allow for normal wear and tear, you can be penalized for any damage that is beyond normal. If you don’t maintain the van as per the provisions of the lease agreement, the penalty can be steep in certain cases.

Thus, if you go ahead with a van lease, ensure that you also purchase the add-on maintenance package or insurance offered by the lease provider.

4. Long-Term Cost

While the monthly lease payments are lower than loan installments, they’ll still amount to a significant sum in the long run. In many cases, the lease amount you pay over the years could be higher than the cost of purchasing the same vehicle.

So, if you’ll be using the van for several years and don’t mind the long-term commitment to a vehicle, buying can be a more cost-effective option.

5. Limited Customization Options

Leasing agreements generally have restrictions on van customization. While they might allow you to make minor changes to the vehicle, significant customizations are generally not allowed. In a way, this restricts your ability to personalize the vehicle as per your requirements.

Needless to say, if you purchase the van, you have complete freedom to customize the van the way you want.

Should You Buy or Lease a Van?

As you can see there are several pros and cons of buying vs. leasing a van in the UK. The selection between the two should ultimately depend on your specific needs and finances.

While ownership comes with equity build-up, customization freedom, and unlimited mileage, the higher initial cost can be a major deterrent. On the other hand, leasing offers benefits like lower upfront and monthly costs and access to newer models but it also comes with mileage restrictions, customization limitations, and no ownership.

Thoroughly analyze these pros and cons to make the right decision. If you’re unable to make a decision, let the experts at Swiss Vans help you out. As one of the leading van sellers and leasing specialists in the UK, you can rely on our expertise to decide whether you should buy or lease a van. Contact us today to know more.

Most people looking for a van in the UK, either for commercial or personal use,

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Best Crew Cab Vans for Family Trips: List & Guide for Your Family Needs

So, you’ve concluded that you need the best crew cab van for family trips. Family travel needs a spacious and reliable vehicle to make everyone’s experience fun. It should have the perfect seating combination while allowing you some cargo space.

Truth be told though; going for crew cab vans requires you to be ready to sacrifice some carrying capability. But it outrightly compensates for it with more versatility to carry as many as twelve people. And if you have children, a spacious crew cab van will allow you to tag them along.

But choosing the best family van UK can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time needing a van. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at the crucial points to consider when looking to buy or hire a crew cab van. We’ll also recommend our best choices that make family trips luxurious, comfy, and enjoyable.

Choosing The Best Crew Cab Van for Family Trips

Remember when you first bought your family car? What were the main checkpoints that you were focusing on? It’s pretty much the same thing, only that with a crew can van, you got to extend your checklist a little.

So, let’s check out what you should be looking for when looking for the best crew van for family travel.

a) Seating capacity

How many people do you need to comfortably accommodate? Think of your family’s comfort, especially if planning long trips across the border. it won’t hurt to get one extra seat to create more room for multiple seating arrangements.

For instance, families of five will best be comfortable with 6-seater crew vans, giving one extra seat for flexibility. The extra seat can also be a life-saver should you choose to get an impromptu passenger. If possible, consider an even larger seating capacity van for future growth.

b) Versatility and interior space

How spacious is the crew cab van? What’s the interior layout and how versatile is it? Consider whether it offers enough headroom, legroom, and cargo space. If you had a small crew cab van in mind, think of all these space factors before sealing the deal. For instance, you may want to go for a 12-passenger van for family travel if carrying 8 to 12 people.

Crew cab vans with seating configuration flexibility allow you to adapt the space as per your needs.

c) Cargo space

When going on a trip with your loved ones, you want a crew cab van with sufficient space to carry luggage, strollers, bicycles, and sports equipment. So, check the crew cab van and ensure it offers ample cargo space. You might want to check the trunk size, foldable seat availability, and roof rails’ presence for extra storage space.

d) Safety features

Vans are primarily considered a goods vehicle but if they’re to be used for carrying passengers, safety has to be paramount. Thankfully, crew cab vans are built for carrying passengers and that means they’re equipped with all the safety features you can get in a car.

Still, you should consider additional safety features that you wouldn’t find in a regular goods van. These include airbags, stability control, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), rear-view camera, blind-spot monitoring, and lane monitoring system.

These safety features can help maximise safety while on the road and avoid unnecessary risks that can lead to accidents.

e) Child-friendly features

If planning to bring your little ones onboard a crew cab van, you wouldn’t want them predisposed to risks. Ensure that the best family van UK you’re going for has safety features like integrated child seat anchor points (ISOFIX). Also, you may consider whether storage compartments and rear window shades are available.

These features can maximise children’s comfort and safety during family road trips.

f) Accessibility

Accessibility is yet another important factor to look into when searching for the best crew cab van for family travel. Evaluate how easy is it for both kids and adults to get onboard and exit the van. Crew cab vans with wide-opening rear doors or sliding doors will make it more convenient to access the van. They also come in handy when dealing with strollers, car seats, among other bulky items.

g) Amenities and comfort

When travelling on long road trips, comfort and amenities that make the travel fun are essential. Climate control systems, adjustable seats, USB charging ports, and entertainment systems are just a few of the amenities that can improve the quality of rides.

h) Handling and manoeuvrability

Even if you were to go for the best small van with 5 seats, its size will still be bigger than a car. That should ring an alarm about handling and manoeuvrability. Luckily, crew cab vans are built to provide a smooth comfortable driving experience. Still, you’ll need to check several things.

Pay attention to the steering response, handling, and how easy it is to manoeuvre in different traffic situations. With a properly-designed suspension system and responsive steering, your driving experience will be more enjoyable.

i) Fuel efficiency

The best crew cab van for family travel should have better fuel efficiency so it doesn’t impact your trip budget. Most modern crew cab vans come with fuel-efficient engine technology plus hybrid options. You may also consider a diesel engine to achieve better mileage without affecting performance.

Other factors to look into that affect fuel efficiency include the weight and aerodynamics of the vehicle.

Top 10 Best Crew Cab Vans for Family Travel in the UK

Based on the demand from buyers looking for family-friendly vans, we have prepared a review of the best crew cab vans for family trips in the UK. Our pick factors the crucial things that a family would need in a vehicle while on a trip. These include cargo-carrying and seating capacity. Here are the top 10 crew cab vans you can consider.

1) Volkswagen Caravelle

Volkswagen Caravelle is the mother of all crew cab vans because of its superior comfortable and spacious interior. It’s one of the best 7-seater crew cab vans for a family of 5 to 7 people. Key points that make it worth considering include:

sliding rear doors;
highly flexible seating compatibility;
multiple options for the 2.0-litre diesel engine;
4 ISOFIX child seat mountings;
heavy 4×4 models weigh 2,495kg while the lightest model is 2,330kg;
high driving position but with a height-adjustable seat and plenty of headroom;
sufficient legroom with movable rear seats to create more cargo space;
centre armrest for the 3-set rear bench.
Three infotainment systems;
3-zone climate control for different row temperatures;
rear parking camera.

2) Mercedes-Benz V-Class

If all you care about is luxury and class, you cannot go wrong with the Mercedes-Benz V-Class. But it also excels at providing ample passenger and cargo space. It offers a smooth ride, equipped with advanced safety features, and more. Here are features that make it a good choice for a crew cab van for family trips:

up to 8 seating capacity;
sleek free-standing infotainment display;
5 doors;
4 ISOFIX child seat fitting points;
blind spot warning system;
anti-lock braking system (ABS);
lane-keeping assistance;
powerful 2.0-litre diesel engine;
2-zone climate control and heated seats;
gross weight of 3,100kg.

3) Vauxhall Vivaro Life

If looking for an electric crew cab van, Vauxhall Vivaro Life is a comfortable and spacious option. It can accommodate up to 9 passengers and comes in ‘combi-long’ and ‘combi-medium’ body shapes. Being fully electric, this crab crew van utilises 100kV DC of power and needs only 30 minutes to recharge its 50kWh battery to 80%.

Other excellent features of Vivaro Life that make it worth considering include:

9-seater and 8-seater options;
three-point seat belts;
143 miles of driving between charges;
5 doors;
4 ISOFIX child seat fittings;
7-inch infotainment system and built-in satellite navigation system;
Multiple e-driving assistance devices, including Driver Attention Alert system, Road sign reader, and Active Safety brake features.

4) Volkswagen Transporter 6.1 Kombi

VW T6.1 Kombi is an easily recognisable crew cab van due to its sharp front-end design featuring narrower headlights and large grill openings. It’s an ample, 6-seater crew van with a generous cargo compartment. The interior features durable upholstery, perfectly designed to suit daily use.

Here are a few reasons why VW T6.1 Kombi is the best crew cab van for family trips:

6-passenger capacity;
Versatile seating combination with removable rear seats;
250-degree rear door opening feature;
3 cubic metres of cargo compartment;
ISOFIX child seat fittings on all 3 back-row seats;
Numerous storage options such as an upper glovebox, 2 cup holders, lower glovebox, and retractable ruler tray.
Plenty of driver-assist features including Front Assist with City Emergency Braking, road sign reading system, Crosswind Assist, Lane Assist, and more.
Equipped with VW We Connect infotainment to support emergency calls, vehicle health reports, parking positions, driving data, speeding alerts, and more.

5) Ford Tourneo Custom

This 9-seater crew cab van is a versatile option with excellent cargo space for family travel. Ford Tourneo Custom comes with EcoBoost Hybrid technology to cut down fuel consumption. It’s the best crew cab van for family trips outside the country.

Here are a few of the excellent features that make it a family-friendly crew cab van:

9-passenger capacity;
2 rear reclining seats with multiple configurations;
Standard twin-sliding side doors;
Standard twin-side loading doors;
ISOFIX child seat fittings on 2^nd and 3^rd-row seats on select models;
Powerful Ford EcoBlue 2.0-litre diesel engine;
Anti-lock brake system (ABS);
Numerous driver-assist technologies including a blind spot warning system, intelligent traffic sign reading speed assist, and cross-traffic alert system.

Our Best Crew Cab Van For Family Pick

If passenger and cargo carrying capacity is your top priority, a combi (kombi) van is ideal. The best small combi van for a family of five or less is the Volkswagen Transporter 6.1 Kombi. This van has a passenger capacity of six and offers a load volume ranging between 3.8 and 9.3 cubic metres.

Plus, its payload range of 938-1,206kg allows you to carry as much cargo as you need to make your family trip convenient. With the ISOFIX child seat fittings on three back-row seats, the van is the best for a family of five.

Summing It Up

When looking for the best crew cab van for family trips, the market has plenty of options that can make it hard to choose. But you can break down your options by considering child-safety features, comfort features, cargo capacity, accessibility, and fuel efficiency.

Factoring in features that make your family trips more enjoyable is also a nice way to find the best family van UK. Check the availability of climate control systems, infotainment systems, and driver-assist technologies.

If planning long road trips extending to other countries, you may choose hybrid crew cab vans such as Ford Tourneo Custom. Overall, the Volkswagen Transporter 6.1 Kombi offers every family-friendly feature you can ever need in a crew cab van.

So, you’ve concluded that you need the best crew cab van for family trips. Family

Driving a Van For The First Time: The Beginner’s Handbook to Safe and Confident Driving

You’re a skilled compact saloon driver but wondering what goes into driving a van for the first time? It’s perfectly normal to feel a bit nervous to get behind the wheel of a bigger vehicle if it’s your first time. Even though the experience can be exciting yet slightly intimidating, there’s nothing to worry about.

Vans such as a Ford Transit are bigger compared to a compact saloon like Volkswagen Golf. They come with different handling features that can be perplexing for first-timers. But with a few tips for driving a long-wheelbase van, you can grasp how to drive any van with ease.

Pre-Driving Check – What You Must Have To Drive A Van In The UK

Before the idea of driving a van crosses your mind, you need to ensure your driving license allows you to do so. A standard car driving license, Category B, permits you to legally be behind the wheel of a van. However, this may vary depending on different specific requirements based on the van usage and weight.

Here’s a reminder of the driving license requirements for anyone planning on driving a van for the first time:

Age restrictions: anyone driving a van with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 3,500 kg must be 17 years or older.
Over 3.5 tonnes GVW requirement: if you’ll be driving a delivery van with more than 3,500 kg GVW, you will need additional licenses. These include Category C1 or a combination of Category C1 and E. These will require you to undergo additional tests and qualifications.
License Validity: Your license must be a valid driving license issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Valid licenses issued by other countries in the European Economic Area (EEA) are also allowed.
Vehicle-specific requirements: some vans such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter are larger and often require a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). Although bigger than regular vans, with tips for driving a Sprinter van, it shouldn’t be hard to drive one.

Other requirements include insurance. Ensure that the van you will be driving has proper insurance for use.

Drive A Van for Beginners – The Actual Driving Action

So, we’ve prepped you with what you need to legally drive a van in the UK. Without further ado, let’s get you into the real action! Driving a van for the first time feels odd. That’s because it’s bigger with an unwieldy look and you’ll need to watch out for many other road users.

How Hard Is It to Drive a Van?

Driving a van harder than a car? That’s the first concern for every first-timer. Luckily, modern vans have a similar drive feel to cars. So, there’s nothing to worry about. From a practical perspective, whether the van has an automatic or manual shift, the act of driving isn’t any different from that of a compact saloon. The gear stick, pedals, steering wheel, and everything else are in the same spot.

But you have to be aware of a couple of things when behind the wheel of a van. It all boils down to the size. Some essential tips for driving a Sprinter van include finding larger parking spaces and negotiating corners much slower while making a wider curve.

If behind the wheel of a smaller van, everything is much similar to a small saloon car, so you’ll be right at home.

Master The Size of The Van

For anyone used to driving a compact saloon car, the biggest worry while driving a van is not hitting other cars on the road. So, it makes sense to first mark the size of the van and understand how much space the van can occupy, be it in the parking or on the road.

Determine the van’s dimensions to know how much space the vehicle needs while driving.
Find out whether you will be driving a long wheelbase or a standard-length version. The standard-length vans share similar wheel spacing with compact saloon cars. The long wheelbase, on the other hand, has a slightly longer distance between the wheels. All this information will be crucial when turning corners in a van, so pay attention to it.
Determine the height of the van as this is crucial when entering car parks with height limitations.
Master the width of the van so you don’t choose a parking spot that’s too small for it.

By mastering the van’s size, you’ll escape troublesome situations that can potentially damage the van and other vehicles.

Check Out the Van’s Interior and Controls

It’s time you take a look at the van’s interior and check out the gizmos that the vehicle has to offer. The number of gadgets you’ll be dealing with is slightly more, which calls for the need to acclimatise yourself to them.

The steering wheel of a modern van has lots of controls. Then there are stalks, climate controls, infotainment screens, and more. Ensure you know the controls and how to operate them correctly before setting off on the road. These are key prerequisites for driving a van for beginners.

Knowing where the controls are and what they do is crucial for your safety on the road. Think of the danger you could expose yourself to when you look away to find the light controls while driving at 60kph.

Be Mindful of Blind Spots and Your Visibility

The large size and design of a van create a larger blind spot compared to compact saloon cars. For that reason, always be aware of these blind spots and take extra care not to compromise your visibility.

Adjust mirrors properly: ensure your side mirrors are in the right position to maximise your vision. Also, note that you are going to drive a van without a rear-view mirror because they don’t have one. So, it won’t be possible to crane your neck to view your blind spot.

Luckily, most vans come with larger door mirrors integrated with secondary mirrors for small blind spots on each side. Some modern vans come with blind-spot detection systems that alert you when something gets into your blind spots. Examples include Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Volkswagen Crafter, Ford Transit, and Renault Master.

Set door mirrors to be in sync with the height of your seat. Ensure that you have a proper view of the blind spots all around the van.
While behind the wheel, have someone strategically walk around the van as you monitor them. Take note of when they vanish out of sight to help you note the position of the blind spots and adjust the mirrors accordingly.
Reversing a van tip: Install additional mirrors and cameras. Most vans don’t have rear-view mirrors so a camera can still do the job right. Rear-view cameras will give you a clearer rear view.

Monitor Your Driving Speed

Driving a van for the first time can be overwhelming as well as exciting. A little adrenaline rush can make you drive faster than you normally do. So, ensure you are calm while behind the wheel as it will make you a better driver. Don’t rush as it won’t get you to your destination faster but may probably expose you and other road users to speeding dangers.

While behind the wheel of a van before you are conversant with it, always be vigilant of speed. Light commercial vehicles and vans must strictly adhere to speed limits, which is why you must know them.

Vans that weigh 3.5 tonnes should strictly follow the national speed limits. That means that on single carriageways, your speed should be 96kph or 80kph for larger towing trailers.
On dual carriageways, vans should maintain a speed limit of 112kph, although it may be even lower in specific regions during certain conditions such as fogginess.
Variable speed limits are applicable in some areas such as smart motorways. These limits are also in effect during heavy traffic or inclement weather.

As a general rule of thumb, your speed while driving a van should be at least 15kph lower than that when driving a car.

Handling the Parking Menace

The bit that is dreary when driving a van for the first time is parking. Can you recall when you were first learning to park a car? Now, envision yourself in the same scenario, but with a little more skill than when you were a novice.

When parking the van, go for spaces that are easy to enter and exit. If you are parallel parking, ensure there is plenty of room for manoeuvres. Here are some essential tips to help you when parking a van:

Reversing a van tip: you shouldn’t strain yourself to reverse park every time unless you must. When reverse parking a van, ensure the space you’re entering is clear with plenty of space to manoeuvre.
Where possible, use driving aids like cameras and parking sensors to make your work easier. You can also ask passers-by to watch out for you while you reverse.
Gently step on the peddle. No need for speed when parking.
Take note of your sides and rear view before reversing.

When reversing at a lower speed, the damage won’t be serious if you accidentally hit a barrier or a nearby vehicle.

Summary

Driving a van for the first time is an exciting experience, which if done with care and preparation should be easy and fun. While a van may seem bigger and unwieldy compared to a small car, it shouldn’t trouble you much to drive it for the first time. Just ensure that you are well aware of its size, know the blind spots, monitor your driving speed, and reverse with caution.

As time goes by, you’ll find it much easier as your confidence level grows. So, whether planning to launch your business or moving, knowing how to drive a van will come in handy.

You’re a skilled compact saloon driver but wondering what goes into driving a van for

How Does Van Leasing Work – Expert Explained

Whether it is for business or personal requirements, a clear knowledge of ‘how does van leasing work?’ can really be helpful. Remember those days when you were new to the ‘van leasing’ process, wasn’t it hard at the beginning? We know it was.

Maybe you are regularly dealing with the van leasing business or thinking of leasing a van for yourself, whatever the scenario is, follow this blog to know about the process from a professional’s point of view.

What is Van Leasing

Van leasing explained is a comprehensive guide that provides detailed insights into the process and how leasing a van works. Before knowing about ‘how does van leasing work?’ it’s better to know what van leasing is in real. Let’s say you or your business needs to lease a van, you can lease it by paying a fixed monthly fee in exchange for the use of the van. Typically leasing requires an initial payment at the start of the lease, which is comparatively a bigger amount than the ongoing monthly amount. This isn’t the same as a deposit because you won’t get it back once you’ve used the van for your purposes.

Van leasing is a popular option for folks who need a set of wheels for a specific period without the hassle of ownership.

How does van leasing work?

Just as we have mentioned earlier, van leasing works by agreeing with a leasing company to use a van for a specified period. Here’s a breakdown of how it typically works:

Choose a Van

The first step to start with the leasing process is to select the van that suits your requirements. There are various makes and models available for leasing, ranging from compact vans to larger commercial vehicles. Consider factors such as size, payload capacity, and features to ensure it aligns with your requirements.

Determine Lease Terms

Once you’ve chosen a van, you’ll need to determine the lease terms. This includes the lease duration, typically ranging from 1 to 5 years, and the agreed-upon mileage limit per year. The lease terms will also specify the monthly payment amount.

How does van leasing work With Its Costs

Once you are determined with the terms & conditions of your selected car/van leasing, you are supposed to pay the costings. Van lease cost may include the following options –

The Upfront Costs

When leasing a van, you may discover an upfront costs involved with it. This typically includes an initial payment, also known as a “deposit” or “down payment.” The amount will vary based on the van’s value and the leasing company’s policies. It’s important to clarify the upfront costs with the leasing company before finalizing your agreement.

Monthly Payments

When learning about ‘how does van leasing work?’, remember the monthly payments. The amount is determined based on factors such as the van’s value, depreciation, and lease terms.

Maintenance and Insurance

While leasing a van, it’s generally the responsibility of the lessee to maintain and service the vehicle. Routine maintenance, repairs, and servicing costs are typically borne by the lessee. Additionally, it’s essential to arrange your van leasing with proper van insurance coverage to protect the vehicle against accidents, theft, and other unforeseen events.

End of Lease Options

At the end of the lease term, you’ll have several options. You can choose to return the van to the leasing company, at which point any excess mileage or wear and tear beyond the agreed-upon limits may incur additional charges. Alternatively, you may have the option to extend the lease, or explore leasing a new van.

Commercial van leasing VS Personal Van Leasing

There can be different purposes behind van leasing. You can lease van for business purpose or you can hire one for personal use. To fully understand ‘How does van leasing work?’ it’s crucial you get to know about both the aspect & the processes related to it.

Differences in Lease Agreements

Knowing about ‘How does van leasing work?’ also requires the knowledge of differentiating the lease agreements & it’s scope. Commercial van lease may have specific provisions tailored to business needs. Personal van leases may have more flexibility in terms of mileage limits and usage restrictions, focusing on personal convenience and lifestyle choices.

Differences in Financial Considerations

Both the commercial van leasing and personal van leasing can have differences in financial implications. Commercial van leases may offer tax benefits for businesses, allowing them to deduct lease payments as a business expense. Additionally, commercial van leasing may involve different financial arrangements, such as fleet leasing options or flexible leasing terms. Personal van leasing, on the other hand, is typically structured as a personal finance agreement, with payment terms based on individual creditworthiness and financial circumstances.

Vehicle Specifications

When knowing about ‘How does van leasing work’, you should know that commercial van leasing often involves customized vehicles, specifically configured for commercial purposes. In contrast, personal van leasing focuses more on meeting individual preferences and lifestyle needs, with options for various sizes, styles, and additional comfort features.

Insurance and Liability

Commercial van leasing may require specific commercial insurance coverage to protect the leased vehicle and business interests. This can include commercial auto insurance policies that provide coverage for business use, liability protection, and coverage for employees operating the van. Personal van leasing typically requires personal auto insurance that covers personal use, although additional coverage options like comprehensive insurance may be considered based on personal preferences.

Documentation and Legal Considerations

While learning about ‘how does van leasing work?’ remember that there will be different legal requirements in personal & commercial van leasing. Commercial van leases may require additional documentation, such as proof of business registration, financial statements, or other business-related documentation. Personal van leasing typically focuses on individual identification, proof of income, and meeting credit requirements.

Van Leasing Tips

If you are looking for tips on business van leasing UK, then you are at the right place. Hopefully, these tips will clear out the cloud on your head about ‘How does van leasing work’ –

Research Different Leasing Companies

You must look for reputable and reliable leasing companies in the UK. Compare their offerings, lease terms, customer reviews, and rates. Consider their experience in van leasing and their reputation for providing quality vehicles and excellent customer service.

Negotiate the Lease

To understand ‘how does van leasing work’ better you must remember to negotiate. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the lease terms, especially if you have specific requirements or if you’re leasing multiple vans. Negotiation can help you secure a better deal.

Check Insurance Requirements

Determine the insurance requirements for the leased van. Ensure you have appropriate coverage for the vehicle during the lease term. Check if the leasing company offers insurance packages or if you need to arrange insurance separately.

Consider Maintenance and Servicing

Understand your responsibilities for maintaining and servicing the leased van. Regular servicing is important to keep the vehicle in good condition. Clarify if the leasing company offers maintenance packages or if you need to arrange servicing independently.

Evaluate End-of-Lease Options

Review the options available at the end of the lease term. Determine whether you have the choice to return the van, extend the lease, or purchase the vehicle. Understanding the end-of-lease options will help you plan for the future and make the most suitable decision.

Read the Lease Agreement Thoroughly

Clear understanding on ‘how does van leasing work’ requires carefully reading and understanding the lease agreement before signing it. Pay attention to any fine print, clauses, or potential penalties. If you have any questions or concerns, seek clarification from the leasing company beforehand.

Maintain Good Communication

Throughout the lease term, maintain open communication with the leasing company. Address any issues or concerns promptly and inform them of any changes in your circumstances that may affect the lease agreement.

Conclusion

And there you have it! That’s the lowdown on ‘how does van leasing work’. It’s a flexible and cost-effective way to get your hands on a van without committing to long-term ownership. Whether you’re a business looking for a reliable fleet or an individual in need of a practical ride, van leasing has got your back. So, go ahead and explore the amazing van leasing offers on our website. You may find some exciting van lease deals uk & snag those deals, then hit the road in style!

FAQs On how does van leasing work

● Is a deposit required for van leasing?

Yes, a deposit, also known as an initial payment or down payment, is usually required when leasing a van.

● What happens if I exceed the mileage limit?

If you exceed the agreed-upon mileage limit, you may incur additional charges per mile/kilometer driven beyond the limit.

● Can I end the lease early?

Ending a lease early may incur early termination fees. However, some leasing companies offer early exit options or lease transfer services, allowing you to transfer the lease to another individual or business.

● Can I purchase the van at the end of the lease?

Some leasing companies offer the option to purchase the van at the end of the lease term. This is known as a lease purchase or lease-to-own option.

Whether it is for business or personal requirements, a clear knowledge of ‘how does van

Stay Legal, Stay Safe: Understanding the Van Towing Capacity Chart UK

When you require towing for a job or personal work, suddenly the need for a van towing capacity chart uk comes to your mind. The van towing capacity chart UK can help van owners and operators understand the maximum weight they can tow safely and legally with their specific van model. It provides a quick reference guide, allowing them to determine the towing capacity without having to go through extensive vehicle documentation or contacting the manufacturer directly.

By consulting the Van Towing Capacity Chart, van owners can ensure that they are within the prescribed limits and comply with legal requirements while towing trailers or carrying heavy loads. This information is essential for maintaining road safety, preventing accidents, and avoiding potential fines or penalties associated with exceeding the towing capacity of a van.

Why Use A Van Towing Capacity Chart UK

Using a Van Towing Capacity Chart UK offers several benefits and is highly recommended for van owners or operators who plan to tow trailers or carry heavy loads. From max towing weight to the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle everything you will know by the cart. Here are the key reasons why using a Van Towing Capacity Chart is important:

Safety

The primary reason to understand the van towing capacity chart uk is safety. Each van model has a specific towing capacity determined by the manufacturer, considering factors such as the vehicle’s structural strength, engine power, and braking capabilities. Exceeding the recommended towing capacity can put excessive strain on the van’s components, compromise stability, and increase the risk of accidents. By using the chart, you can ensure that you stay within the safe limits defined for your van, minimizing the chances of mechanical failures or loss of control while towing.

Legal Compliance

In the UK, there are legal requirements and restrictions regarding towing capacities. Adhering to these regulations is crucial to avoid fines, penalties, or potential legal issues. The Van Towing Capacity Chart helps you determine the maximum weight you can tow within the boundaries of the law, ensuring compliance with towing regulations specific to your vehicle category and driving license.

Optimal Performance

Towing loads beyond a van’s capacity can negatively impact its overall performance. It may result in reduced acceleration, compromised braking efficiency, increased fuel consumption, and excessive wear and tear on the engine and transmission. By referring to the van towing capacity chart uk, you can select an appropriate trailer size and weight that keeps your van operating at its optimal performance level, maintaining fuel efficiency and minimizing mechanical strain.

Preventing Damage

You must know that overloading a van beyond its towing capacity can cause significant damage to its suspension, transmission, brakes, and other critical components. These damages can end up resulting in a costly repair or even permanent wear to the vehicle. By using the van towing capacity chart uk, you can avoid going through excessive stress, prevent potential breakdowns, and ensure its long-term reliability.

Insurance Coverage

When it comes to towing, it’s important to have proper insurance coverage. Many insurance policies have specific provisions for towing, including coverage limits and requirements. By knowing your van’s towing capacity and staying within the prescribed limits, you can ensure that you are adequately covered by your insurance policy in case of any towing-related incidents or accidents.

What does the Van Towing Capacity Chart UK Provide?

The Van Towing Capacity Chart in the UK provides essential information regarding the towing capabilities of different van models. It typically includes the following details:

Van Model and Specifications

The chart lists various van models available in the UK market, along with their specific specifications. This includes information such as the make, model, engine size, transmission type, axle ratio, and any optional towing packages or equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)

The van towing capacity chart uk indicates the maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) allowed for each van model. The GVW is the total weight of the fully loaded van, including passengers, cargo, and fuel. It serves as a reference point for determining the van’s towing capacity.

Towing Capacity

The maximum towing capacity in UK for any model is one of the most crucial pieces of information that you can get from the chart. This indicates the maximum weight limit that the van can safely and legally tow. The towing capacity is typically expressed in kilograms or pounds. With this chart, you can check towing capacity of your vehicles easily.

The information that you find about your tow capacity by reg for your vehicle should only be used if it is stamped on the VIN plate, which is the vehicle identification number plate.

Trailer Weight Limitations

The van towing capacity chart uk may also specify any specific limitations or recommendations regarding the weight of the trailer being towed. This includes both the maximum trailer weight and the maximum tongue weight (the weight exerted on the tow bar or hitch).

License Category Requirements

In some cases, the van towing capacity chart uk may mention the license category required to tow with a particular van model. This information is essential as different license categories have different towing allowances and restrictions.

Additional Notes and Recommendations

The van towing capacity chart uk might include additional notes or recommendations provided by the van manufacturer or regulatory authorities. These may include guidelines for safe towing practices, recommended equipment or accessories for towing, and any specific requirements for towing trailers in certain conditions or terrains.

With Proper Utilization OF Van Towing Capacity Chart UK

Once you started using a towing capacity chart, you will know about –

What can my car tow

From the chart, individuals will know what my cars towing capacity is. Calculating the tow weight of my car is also a common concern in this matter. With the knowledge of your vehicles making it’s easy to find out what you can tow.

Can I Tow An Electric Car

The ability to tow an electric car largely depends on the specific make and model of the electric vehicle (EV) and the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. While some electric cars are designed for towing, others may not be suitable for towing due to various factors such as weight, battery capacity, and structural limitations.

Different Cars With Towing Capacity

As per the van towing capacity chart UK, the differently sized cars have different towing capacities.

Compact-sized Cars: These cars normally contain lower towing capacities. On average, they may have a towing capacity ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 pounds (450 to 680 kilograms).

Mid-Size Cars: Medium-sized cars often carry little higher towing capacities compared to compact cars. Their towing capacity can range from 1,500 to 2,500 pounds (680 to 1,130 kilograms).

Crossovers and SUVs: Due to their larger size and more durable construction, crossovers and SUVs typically have higher towing capacities. 2,500 to 8,000 pounds (1,130 to 3,630 kilograms) or more of towing capacity can be achieved depending on the SUV or crossover model.

Trucks: These vehicles’ towing capacities can vary significantly depending on the engine, drivetrain, and towing packages. Full-size trucks have a towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds (2,270 to 4,540 kilograms), or more, depending on the model and configuration of the truck.

While Towing A Vehicle In The UK

When towing a vehicle in the UK, it’s important to keep several key things in mind to ensure a safe and legal towing experience. Here are the essential points to remember:

Make sure you have a valid driver’s license that allows towing within the appropriate restrictions. Different license categories have varying towing allowances and restrictions. Make sure you comply with the licensing requirements based on the weight of the trailer and the total weight of the vehicle and trailer combination.
Stick to the towing capacity limits of your vehicle, as specified by the manufacturer. Exceeding the recommended towing capacity can strain your vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, and braking system, compromising safety and performance.
Understand your vehicle’s specifications, including its Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Train Weight (GTW), and maximum tongue weight. Ensure that your vehicle is equipped with the appropriate hitch and towing equipment suitable for the weight you intend to tow.
Perform regular safety checks on your trailer, including the condition of the tires, lights, brakes, and coupling mechanism. Make sure that the trailer is properly connected to your vehicle, and all safety chains or cables are secured according to regulations.
Properly load and secure your cargo within the trailer to prevent shifting or unbalanced weight distribution. Distribute the weight evenly, with slightly more weight toward the front of the trailer, and ensure that the load is within the trailer’s weight capacity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is very obvious that using a van towing capacity chart UK is essential for safety, legal compliance, optimal performance, and preventing damage to your van. It provides a reliable reference guide to determine the maximum weight you can tow, enabling you to make informed decisions and promote responsible towing practices.

When you require towing for a job or personal work, suddenly the need for a

Towing a Trailer with a Van: The Definite Guide

Towing a trailer with a van is a common practice. Towing a trailer can be advantageous for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, it allows you to expand your carrying capacity, enabling you to transport larger or heavier items that wouldn’t fit inside your van alone. Whether you’re moving furniture, hauling equipment for work or recreational activities, or embarking on a camping trip, a trailer provides the extra space needed to accommodate your belongings.

Additionally, towing trailers can offer convenience and flexibility by allowing you to bring along additional vehicles, such as motorcycles or ATVs, or even tow a boat for a weekend getaway. It creates possibilities for traveling to new places and taking part in a variety of outdoor activities. To ensure a safe towing experience, you must tow cautiously, make sure your van has the necessary capabilities, and adhere to safety regulations. Below we’ll learn every detail about towing a trailer with a van/other vehicles.

What is Towing a trailer With A Van?

Towing a car behind a camper may seem unusual to a novice camper, but it is common practice in many communities. When a trailer is hitched to a van, the van’s power and capabilities are used to pull or haul the trailer. This is known as towing. Similarly, towing a van with a car refers to attaching a van to a car for towing something. The vehicle at the front serves as the primary vehicle responsible for pulling and maneuvering the towed vehicle.

Prerequisite of Towing A Trailer With A Van

Before starting with the towing process remember the followings –

Check If You Need a License For Towing a Trailer with a Van

If the combined weight of your vehicle and the trailer’s overall weight rating is less than 26,000 pounds, you can tow the trailer with a regular driver’s license, also known as a Class D driving license. You will require a commercial driver’s license if it exceeds that amount.

Check your van’s towing capacity Before Towing A Trailer With A Van

Review your van’s manual or contact the manufacturer to determine its towing capacity. Make sure it can safely handle the weight of the trailer and its contents. Exceeding the towing capacity can lead to stability issues and potential damage to your van.

Install a hitch receiver

If your van doesn’t already have a hitch receiver, you’ll need to have one installed. A hitch receiver provides the connection point for attaching the trailer to your van. Consult with a professional to ensure the proper installation of a hitch receiver that matches your van’s specifications.

Obtain the correct trailer hitch

As different types of trailers require specific trailer hitches, choosing a trailer hitch that is compatible with your van’s hitch receiver and suitable for the type and weight of the trailer you plan to tow is required. Consult with a professional if you’re unsure which trailer hitch to use.

Verify your van’s electrical system while Towing a Trailer with a Van

Ensure that your van’s electrical system is equipped with the necessary connections for trailer lights and brakes. This typically includes a wiring harness that connects the trailer’s lights and brake system to your van’s electrical system. Check that all the connections are secure and functioning properly.

Understand local regulations

Familiarize yourself with the local regulations and laws regarding towing trailers. Different regions may have specific rules regarding speed limits, trailer weight restrictions, safety requirements, and licensing. Comply with all applicable regulations to ensure legal and safe towing.

Secure your load

While towing a trailer with a van, properly secure all items inside the trailer to prevent shifting during transit. Use tie-down straps, bungee cords, or other appropriate methods to secure the load. Ensure that the weight is evenly distributed to maintain stability and minimize sway.

Adjust tire pressure

It’s important to check the tire pressure of both your van and the trailer. Make sure they are inflated to the recommended levels specified by the manufacturer. Proper tire pressure promotes better handling, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.

Practice towing skills

If you’re new to towing, it’s beneficial to practice towing in a safe and open area before embarking on long trips or navigating challenging terrain. Practice backing up, turning, and braking to become familiar with how the trailer affects your van’s handling.

Insurance Coverage

Getting insurance for towing is an important consideration to ensure you have the necessary coverage and protection while towing a trailer or any other vehicle.

Remember, insurance requirements and coverage options may vary based on your location, the type of towing vehicle, and the purpose of towing (recreational or commercial). It’s crucial to consult with insurance professionals who specialize in towing or recreational vehicle insurance to ensure you have the appropriate coverage for your towing activities.

The Guide For Towing A Trailer With A Van

There are many vehicles, especially vans available mainly designed for towing trailers. You have to consider a few things when towing a trailer with a van to ensure a safe, efficient towing operation.

Towing a Trailer with a Van Requires Choosing The Right Trailer

Once you are done with the prerequisites, select a trailer that suits your needs and is compatible with your van’s towing capacity. Consider factors such as trailer size, weight, and type. Ensure the trailer is equipped with a suitable hitch system.

Attaching the trailer

Align the trailer’s hitch coupler with the van’s hitch receiver. Lower the coupler onto the hitch ball and secure it by engaging the locking mechanism, typically using a latch or pin. Double-check that the coupler is properly secured to avoid any detachment while towing.

Connect trailer lights and brakes

Ensure that the trailer’s electrical connections for lights and brakes are properly connected to your van. Test the trailer’s brake lights, turn signals, and running lights to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Check trailer tire pressure and condition

Inspect the trailer’s tires for proper inflation and any signs of damage or wear. Ensure that they are in good condition to maintain stability and control while towing.

Distribute the weight evenly Before Towing a Trailer with a Van

Proper weight distribution is crucial for safe towing. Load the trailer with the heaviest items positioned over the axle and distribute the weight evenly from front to back and side to side. Avoid overloading the trailer or placing excessive weight on one side, as it can affect stability.

Adjust your mirrors

Adjust your van’s side mirrors to provide a clear view of the trailer and its surroundings. This will help you monitor the trailer while driving and during maneuvers.

Maintain a safe speed

Adhere to speed limits and drive at a speed suitable for towing. Avoid excessive speed, especially when going downhill, to maintain control and prevent trailer sway.

Be aware of trailer sway

Trailer sway can occur due to factors such as wind, uneven weight distribution, or improper loading. If you experience trailer sway, stay calm, avoid sudden steering inputs, and gradually reduce speed. Consider using a sway control system or weight distribution hitch to enhance stability.

Take breaks and inspect the setup

During long trips, take regular breaks to rest and inspect the trailer setup. Check the hitch connection, tire pressure, and the trailer’s condition to ensure everything is secure and functioning properly.

Safety Checks before towing a trailer with a van

Adhere to all traffic laws and regulations regarding towing. Familiarize yourself with any specific rules or restrictions for towing trailers in your area. Utilize safety devices such as trailer brakes, sway control systems, and weight distribution hitches to enhance stability and control.

Different Van Types & Their Towing Capacity

When it comes to choosing the best vans for towing, several factors should be considered. Van’s towing capacity can vary including Camper van towing capacity, the specific make, model, and configuration of the van, engine power, stability, and overall build quality. Here are some popular vans renowned for their towing capacities.

The Ford Transits are flexible and tough vans with a variety of engines and towing options.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, on the other hand, are also well known for their strength and capacity to tow.
The Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana are strong and reliable vans that can tow 10,000 lbs.
The cargo van towing capacity of Nissan NV is comparatively low.
The Toyota Sienna minivan is a good option to consider for towing lighter loads even though it is not a conventional cargo van.
In the case of other vehicles, there are some SUV vans that can tow 7,000 lbs and more which you can consider too.

Conclusion

Considering the benefits of towing a trailer with a van makes it very practical. Whenever you are towing with a van it’s important to note the prerequisites. Additionally, the steps outlined here are general guidelines. Always refer to the specific instructions and recommendations provided by your vehicle’s manufacturer and consult a professional if you have any doubts or concerns about towing your van.

Towing a trailer with a van is a common practice. Towing a trailer can be

2023 Volkswagen Caddy Cargo VAN TSI220

The 2023 Volkswagen Caddy Cargo VAN TSI220 is one of the many variants of the 2023 Volkswagen Caddy series. There are a number of different versions released by the German manufacturer for this same model, including the panel van (which goes by the name of “Cargo”), the people mover (which goes by the name of “Maxi”) and the campervan (which goes by the name of “California”).

In each of these categories viz., Cargo, Maxi, and California, there are further variants that are differentiated on the basis of their features and pricing.

The TSI220 is the most basic variant of the lot, and it also has the smallest price tag. We’ll be reviewing it by taking a look at its features, performance, and more.

The Caddy TSI220: A Brief Introduction

The Caddy TSI220 is mainly differentiated from the rest of the variants in the “Caddy Cargo” range by four main factors: the lower price, manual transmission, single sliding door, and 16-inch wheels.

The majority of the variants in the VW Caddy are available in automatic transmission and they come with a somewhat iconic minimalistic gearbox. However, with the TSI220, the gearbox is the good old manual one. (To find out more about this, head over to the “Engine and Performance” section.)

The Caddy Cargo vans are named thus due to the fact that they come with a large space at the back, with the bulkhead partitioning off the front two seats. The rest of the van i.e., the entire back section comes with an empty cargo space that can be used for commercial purposes e.g., moving and transporting goods, etc.

In the TSI220, there is one sliding side door that can be used to access the payload area. There are two swinging doors in the back, but the side access is limited to just one. In the other higher-priced variants, there are sliding doors on both sides, which makes access easier.

And lastly, the TSI220 comes with 16-inch wheels, which can be a bit of a downgrade from the 17-inch wheels that the manufacturer provides with the other higher-end variants.

We will be discussing these features in detail in the review below. The purpose of mentioning all these differences here was to help you understand which variant we’re going to be talking about. It’s possible that you could have misunderstood the names of the variants and you could read through the review just to find out that it was not about the one you were looking for.

Caddy Cargo VAN TSI220 Review

1. Interior

Since the interior of the Caddy Cargo TSI220 is partitioned off into the “cockpit” and the payload area, we’ll look at them one by one.

a. The Cockpit

There is much to talk about when it comes to the cockpit of the Caddy Cargo TSI220.

Steering Wheel

On the driver’s side of the dashboard, there is an aesthetic leather-covered steering wheel embossed with the VW logo in the middle. There are different control buttons on each side of the center that you can use for audio control and the like.

Controls and Infotainment

Behind the steering wheel is the digital gauge cluster. Since the cluster is large and lit with LEDs, it is easy to spot when driving.

Coming to the left side i.e., the center of the dashboard, there is an 8.25-inch infotainment system. The infotainment unit is angled to the right, making it easy for the driver to access.

The Caddy Cargo TSI220 also comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (wired). There are a total of two USB Type-C ports that you can use for connecting your mobile device to the car. And if you just want to charge your device without any connectivity gimmicks, you can simply use the wireless charging feature provided by the van.

All in all, judging from these features, we can say that the Caddy Cargo embraces the tech side of things pretty nicely. With Android Auto and CarPlay support – as well as wireless charging – there isn’t anything that you’ll have to worry about as far as using and sustaining your phone goes.

Every display inside the cockpit is LED-lit, which makes it easy to spot during the day and during nighttime drives as well.

Upholstery

The TSI220 comes with cloth upholstery, and this is something that is common in pretty much most of the variants. Some of the high-end ones come with what is referred to as “premium cloth upholstery,” which is the same thing but with better quality.

b. The Payload Area

Let’s come to the payload area now.

Since the payload area is just a big empty space at the back of the van, there isn’t as much impressive stuff to talk about as was the case with the cockpit. But still, there are some useful features that we think are worth mentioning here.

Mesh Screen

There is a mesh screen on the bulkhead that allows the driver/passenger in the cockpit to easily see inside the back area. Having a mesh screen there is a lot better than glass or another similar material since the mesh is not that likely to break/shatter should something come flying at it from the back. And since the mesh is semi-see-through, it serves the purpose (albeit deficiently) of allowing the driver to use the rear mirror to look straight behind the van.

Connection Points

In the payload area itself, there are a total of six connection points that you can use to tether the cargo securely to the flooring. Positioned strategically in pairs of two, the connection points highly complement the overall nature of the Caddy Cargo as a panel van.

Single Sliding Door

With the TSI220, a significant drawback and con that you’ll have to deal with is the lack of two side sliding doors. If you happen to get off from the driver’s side, you will have to walk around to the back or back around the front to the sliding door on the left side.

Of course, since you’ll just be storing stuff in the back, you won’t actually need to access it too frequently. Nevertheless, if we think about people who’ll be buying the TSI220 to use it as some sort of custom/makeshift camping van, the single sliding door could be a bit of a bug.

Flooring

Although we don’t mean to paint the Caddy Cargo a bad picture, we’re going to mention one more drawback that we found in the back area. The floor of the payload area doesn’t come with a full protective covering. Although this is something easily fixable with custom lining/layering, the bare metal floor was somewhat disappointing.

2. Exterior

Now, let’s talk about the exterior of this van.

a. Headlights and Taillights

Headlights and taillights, apart from playing their obvious “illuminative” role, have a big effect on how aesthetic a car looks.

The Caddy Cargo performs well in this department. On the front, there are two typical halogen headlights with daytime running lamps. The front headlights work nice and look nice.

On the rear side, you get the iconic vertical light units on either side of the swinging doors.

b. Doors

We’ve talked about the doors on the TSI220 a lot in this post. There are a total of five doors at four different points:

Standard front door on driver’s side
Standard front door passenger side
Single sliding door on the side
Two swinging doors at the back

c. Miscellaneous Features

There are some other cool features that you can enjoy on the outside of the Caddy Cargo, but since they are a little diverse in nature, we’re gathering them here under this one heading.

One cool feature that comes with the TSI220 is the rain-sensing wipers. Rain-sensing wipers have a simple but useful gimmick. They can sense the amount of rain falling on them to adjust their speed.
Another excellent feature is the heated and controllable side mirrors. Controlling the side mirrors from inside the car makes things a lot easier. Plus, since they are heated, they won’t fog up if it gets cold outside.

3. Engine and Performance

Now, let’s talk about the engine and performance of the Caddy Cargo TSI220.

The TSI220 comes with a 1.5 petrol engine (turbo-charged) that produces 84kW and 220Nm. The transmission on the TSI220, as described earlier, is a standard six-speed manual one. This model is also available with a seven-speed automatic transmission as well but with an increased price tag.

According to VW, the fuel efficiency for this vehicle is 6.2L per 100km. Apart from sounding somewhat difficult to believe, professional real-life testing has proved that the fuel efficiency is a bit lesser than claimed.

Conclusion

The VW Cargo Caddy TSI220 is a great panel van for commercial use. It comes with a decent enough engine and has some great features both on the interior and exterior. Although the TSI220 is the most basic variant from the lot, it has enough to offer to make it a nice choice to consider.

The price for the TSI220 is around $38,000 – $40,000. The exact price tag can vary depending on where you buy it from and which version you buy (auto or manual).

The 2023 Volkswagen Caddy Cargo VAN TSI220 is one of the many variants of the

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Van Leasing Explained

What Is The Van Leasing Process?

Looking for a brand new van? Have you considered leasing? If not, it’s probably because you don’t know how it works and all the benefits it brings. Our step-by- step guide will explain exactly how leasing works, from finance options right through to delivery of your dream van.

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From start to finish my experience was overall great. Communication was excellent via phone and email. Sam went above and behond to get my vehicle to me the same week as I was going away so I really appreciate what he did there. And still if I have any questions Sam reply’s to emails more or less straight away. I’m very happy with my purchase. Would definitely use Swiss vans again. Thanks guys

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David james 4 weeks ago

IT STILL DOSE NOT CHANGE THE FACT THAT THE BUMPERS YOU SUPPLIED AND FITTED HAVE NOT BEEN PRIMED PROPERLY THEREFORE I CANNOT GET A BODY SHOP TO SPRAY THEM I TOOK THE VAN BEFORE I CONTACTED YOU TO GET IT SORTED MY SELF BUT WAS TOLD THEY COULD NOT GUARANTEE THERE WORK IF THEY SPRAYED ON TOP OF THE PAINT YOU DID WHICH IS THE ONLY REASON I CONTACTED YOU, IF I WAS ABLE TO GET THE WORK DONE WITHOUT BUYING A NEW BUMPER. My van was delayed for a start but I wasn’t given a reason why. When my van was delivered it had spray glue all over the interior and it had not been cleaned and the body kit that I paid them to fit was not primed properly and the fake exhausts in the bumper We’re not fitted straight. They apologised and said they would send me an auto gleam kit as compensation still waiting for that. About 6 months in my paint started to flake off and they agreed to put it right they even came to my home to do the work then told me that the paint had flaked because I had damaged the bumper which I have not but even if I had the paint shouldn’t flake the reason it’s flaking is because they have not prime the kit properly, now they won’t answer my emails and I’m stuck with a bumper that I can not get sprayed because know one will do the work without replacing the whole bumper. This was my second van from Swiss van it will be my last. If your going to get a van from them don’t get them to do any work on it they are not capable

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Chris miles 2 months ago

From start to finish Sam Elky was top notch. Brilliant service

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Mat 3 months ago