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The small van sector continues to go from strength to strength in 2025, with manufacturers refining comfort, efficiency and technology while keeping running costs firmly in check. For tradespeople, couriers and growing businesses, today’s compact vans offer the perfect balance between car-like driving and serious working capability.
In this Vanaways Wrapped review, we take a closer look at four of the very best small vans you can buy in 2025:
- Citroën Berlingo M
- Toyota PROACE CITY Electric
- Renault Kangoo
- Nissan Townstar
- Peugeot Partner
1. Citroën Berlingo M – The Versatile Classic
At a glance
Few vans can claim the pedigree of the Citroën Berlingo. Now firmly established as one of the most recognisable small vans on UK roads, the latest Berlingo M continues to deliver excellent practicality, modern technology and impressive efficiency. It remains a go-to choice for tradespeople who need flexibility and value for money.
Engines & specification
In 2025, the Berlingo M offers one of the widest powertrain line-ups in its class. Buyers can choose from efficient petrol and diesel engines, alongside the fully electric ë-Berlingo, which is ideal for urban work and low-emission zones.
- Petrol and diesel options prioritise low running costs and smooth performance
- Electric ë-Berlingo offers zero tailpipe emissions and quiet city driving
- Multiple trims available, including Worker, Enterprise and Driver, each tailored to different business needs
Interior & practicality
Inside, the Berlingo M remains one of the most practical small vans available. The square load bay, wide-opening doors and clever storage solutions make day-to-day jobs easier, while the cabin feels comfortable and well thought out.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Highly practical and durable
- Comfortable, car-like driving experience
Cons
- Payload slightly behind some rivals
- Ride and gearbox could be more refined under heavy load
Verdict
The Citroën Berlingo M continues to be a benchmark in the small van sector. It’s a dependable all-rounder that suits a wide range of industries, from plumbing and electrical work to courier services and van conversions.
2. Toyota PROACE CITY Electric – The Urban Specialist
At a glance
Toyota’s PROACE CITY Electric has firmly established itself as one of the most compelling electric small vans on the market in 2025. Designed with city driving in mind, it combines Toyota’s renowned reliability with zero-emission capability.
Powertrain & efficiency
As a fully electric van, the PROACE CITY Electric is ideal for businesses operating in clean air zones or urban environments.
- Smooth, quiet electric motor
- Competitive real-world range for daily routes
- Low running and maintenance costs compared to combustion vans
Interior & technology
The cabin is modern and intuitive, featuring a clear touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, alongside driver-assistance features that make stop-start city driving less stressful.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Zero-emission driving
- Exceptionally low running costs
- Ideal for urban and last-mile delivery work
Cons
- Limited appeal for long-distance motorway users
- Higher upfront cost than diesel alternatives
Verdict
If your business is city-based and future-proofing is a priority, the PROACE CITY Electric is one of the smartest small van choices of 2025.
3. Renault Kangoo – Innovation Meets Practicality
At a glance
The Renault Kangoo has evolved into one of the most innovative small vans in its class. Known for its clever design and comfort-focused approach, the latest Kangoo continues to impress with its usability and refined driving experience.
Engines & specification
In 2025, the Kangoo is available with efficient petrol and diesel engines, as well as the all-electric Kangoo E-Tech, offering businesses plenty of choice depending on their operating needs.
Interior & load space
The Kangoo’s standout feature remains its clever access and storage solutions. The load area is easy to use, and the cabin feels more like a passenger car than a traditional van, making long working days more comfortable.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Innovative design features
- Comfortable and refined interior
- Strong safety and driver-assistance tech
Cons
- Can be pricier in higher trims
- Payload not class-leading
Verdict
The Renault Kangoo is a brilliant option for drivers who value comfort, innovation and ease of use, without sacrificing everyday practicality.
4. Nissan Townstar – The Reliable All-Rounder
At a glance
Nissan’s reputation for reliability shines through in the Townstar. Compact, efficient and packed with technology, it has quickly become one of the most well-rounded small vans on the market in 2025.
Its manageable size makes it ideal for businesses that spend long hours on the road, particularly in urban and suburban environments. Trades such as plumbing, carpentry and delivery work are a natural fit.
Engines & specification
- The Townstar is available with a refined petrol engine and a fully electric variant.
- 3-litre petrol engine delivering strong power and torque for its size
- Electric Townstar offers zero-emission capability for city work
- Focus on reliability, low running costs and everyday usability
Key features
- Air conditioning
- Cruise control
- Heated windows
- 7” touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- Rear parking sensors
- DAB digital radio
Interior
Inside, the Townstar impresses with its storage options and modern layout. The cabin feels robust yet comfortable, with plenty of technology to support drivers throughout the working day.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent reliability
- Modern technology
- Compact and easy to drive
Cons
- No diesel option
- Positioned at the higher end of the price bracket
Verdict
The Nissan Townstar is a standout small van for 2025. With strong build quality, impressive tech and a choice of petrol or electric power, it’s an excellent long-term investment for any business.
Renault Kangoo is a brilliant option for drivers who value comfort, innovation and ease of use, without sacrificing everyday practicality.
5. Peugeot Partner – Stylish and Practical Twin
At a glance
The Peugeot Partner shares much with its cousin the Peugeot Partner but brings a slightly sharper feel and Peugeot’s distinctive design flair. It’s a practical, no-nonsense work van with a comfortable driving experience.
Engines & specification
The Partner continues to offer a wide powertrain choice:
- Efficient petrol and diesel engines for high mileage work
- Fully electric e-Partner available for zero-emission zones
- Smooth gearing and comfortable ride quality
Interior & practicality
Inside, the Partner impresses with ergonomic controls, plenty of in-cab storage and smart tech. Its load bay is well-proportioned with wide rear doors and a low load sill for easy access — perfect for tools, equipment or parcel deliveries.
Key features include:
- Smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay & Android Auto)
- Rear parking sensors
- DAB radio, Bluetooth & USB ports
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stylish design
- Practical load space
- Refined drive
Cons
- Similar payload to Berlingo (not class-leading)
Verdict: A superb all-round small van that delivers personality and performance in equal measure.
Final Thoughts: Best Small Vans of 2025
Each of these vans brings something different to the table:
- Citroën Berlingo M – unbeatable versatility and value
- Toyota PROACE CITY Electric – perfect for zero-emission urban work
- Renault Kangoo – innovative, comfortable and refined
- Nissan Townstar – reliable, modern and business-ready
At Vanaways, we’re here to help you find the right van for your needs, whether that’s a single vehicle or an entire fleet. If you’d like more information on any of these models, or want advice on finance and availability, get in touch with our team today.
Expert Insight – From our General Sales Manager Cedric Ratnasingham:
"From my perspective, the biggest mistake businesses still make is buying a van that’s too big, too expensive to run, or wrong for their routes. The strength of today’s small vans is choice: diesel still makes sense for high-mileage motorway users, petrol suits mixed driving, and electric is now a genuine no-brainer for urban operators with predictable daily routes. My advice is always to start with how you actually work — payload, average mileage, where you drive, and how long you plan to keep the van, and then match the vehicle to the job, not the other way round. Every model in this Vanaways Wrapped list is a proven performer, but the right van is the one that saves you money, time and fatigue over the next three to five years. Get that decision right, and a small van becomes one of the smartest business investments you can make."
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