March’s Used Van Hero

Andy Picton | 08 Mar 2019

About the author

Andy Picton

Chief Commercial Vehicle Editor

Having worked previously for Barclays Asset Finance and LeasePlan in the commercial vehicle sector, Andy joined Glass’s in 2002 as part of the Commercial Vehicle team working closely with manufacturers, leasing and insurance companies, traders, dealers and auction houses. He was promoted to Chief Commercial Vehicle Editor in 2016 and manages our industry-leading team of valuation experts. He loves football, music and commercial vehicles.

For those who want a sporty looking small van that offers great economy
The Ford Fiesta Sport Van is Glass’s Used Commercial Hero for March 2019.

Each month, Glass’s Commercial Vehicle editors hold a meeting to name the current Used Van Hero in the UK market – the model they believe offers the highest level of versatility, durability and outstanding value for money.

Andy Picton, Chief Commercial Vehicle Editor: “If you’re in the market for a practical, car-derived van with sporty looks and amazing economy, then the Ford Fiesta Sport 1.5TDCi 95PS could be for you” Always highly sought after, the Ford Fiesta Sport offers the advantages of a dedicated commercial vehicle combined with fuel efficiency and car-like fit and finish.

WHEN WAS IT ON SALE

The Fiesta launched over forty years ago in 1976. The Fiesta Van, the UK’s best-selling car-derived van launched in December 1996, with the latest generation available at the tail end of last year. The Fiesta Sport van was added to the Fiesta Van line-up early in 2009 and has been a fixture ever since. This Sport Van launched in late 2012.

WHY

This generation of Fiesta Van received a complete overhaul with updated styling and featured a choice of 1.25-litre 82PS petrol and 1.5TDCi 75PS and 1.6TDCi 95PS diesel engines. All diesel engines emitted less than 100g/km of CO2 and were incredibly economical. The 75PS diesel returned 76.4mpg, the frugal ECOnetic 85.6mpg and due to its improved aerodynamics, the Sport Van returned 78.5mpg. Three trim levels were available, Base, Trend and the flagship Sport Van. Styling changes mirrored that of the car, with revised front-end incorporating laser-cut LED headlamps. In the 1.0m3 load area, there is a protective liner to the floor and side panels along with four cargo hooks and a steel bulkhead to separate from the cabin. The payload ranges between 485-513kg dependent on model.

The eye-catching Fiesta Sport Van featured in addition to the standard equipment, electric mirrors, cruise control, alloy wheels, air conditioning, lowered suspension, a natty body kit and the use of the larger 95PS engine.

WHAT’S GOOD

The range is well equipped with clear and easy to use instrumentation. Reach and rake steering and adjustable driver’s seat are also nice touches carried over from the car. SYNC connectivity with voice control is new to this generation, along with an Emergency Assistance service. The Fiesta Van is competitive to run and benefits from a comprehensive van dealer network.

WHAT’S BAD

If its price that drives you, the Ford Transit Courier is bigger, more practical and less expensive than the Fiesta Van. Costs aside, check for rear damper issues through overloading. High mileage or hard driving can wear the gearbox and in particular, the third gear synchromesh. Reverse gear selection is also a common fault for all Fiestas in this generation. The Sport Van will be expensive to repair if the alloy wheels or body kit are damaged.

IDEAL BUY

Ford Fiesta Sport van 1.5TDCi 95bhp – 2015/65 plate with 60,000 miles on the clock

Retail £7,155 + VAT and Trade £5,755 + VAT

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