Auto Express has handed out its annual new car awards, which, despite the name, also gives out gongs to vans and pickups, with the new Renault Kangoo winning the coveted Van of the Year title.
The new Kangoo — which shares the same platform and bodywork with the Mercedes-Benz Citan and Nissan Townstar — blends a 987kg payload and a 4.2m3 load volume with car-like style, technology and driving dynamics.
Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief, Auto Express:
“If you need a van without compromises, the Kangoo fits the bill. Its car-like tech and driving manners mix with huge versatility and a cavernous load space. It’s cost-effective and we reckon it’s one of the best-looking vans on the road, too – the ideal tool for any business.”
The award follows the van winning the International Van of the Year award in 2022, confirming its suitability to the challenges users put the van through.
Guillaume Sicard, Country Head UK & Managing Director Renault Brand UK, said:
“We are exceptionally pleased to accept this award. It recognises how the All-New Renault Kangoo delivers in every possible way, merging car-like refinement and technology-focused features with uncompromised practicality and versatility. The All New Kangoo embodies our extensive experience in developing and manufacturing both LCVs and EVs, providing van buyers with a vehicle that meets their requirements today and in the future.”
Renault also makes the Kangoo available in electric form, with the Kangoo E-Tech offering the same load volume as the regular models and offering a range of up to 186 miles.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo picked up the Electric Van of the Year award, beating off competition for the Ford E-Transit and Vauxhall Vivaro Electric, with the Auto Express judges praising the VW’s car-like dynamics and one-tonne payload.
Dean Gibson, Senior Test Editor & CV Reviews at Auto Express, commented:
“The arrival of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo has injected some much-needed style into the electric van class. Here’s a work vehicle that, with its striking Type 2-inspired looks, turns heads wherever it goes, which could be ideal if you want your company to stand out from the crowd.”
Putting style ahead of outright practicality, the 3.9m3 cargo capacity of the ID. Buzz falls behind some rivals, but the one-tonne payload, impressive driving dynamics and retro-cool vibe make up for it.
Commenting on the award, David Hannah, Head of Direct Sales at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “We are delighted the ID. Buzz Cargo has been voted ‘Electric Van of the Year’ 2023 by Auto Express, and celebrated for its style and substance. Our first all-electric van in the commercial vehicles range, the ID. Buzz Cargo was designed with sustainability in mind and is proof that a light commercial vehicle can combine business-ready practicality with sustainability and style.”
The new Ford Ranger pipped its Volkswagen-branded sibling to the Pickup of the Year award, with the Toyota Hilux also being commended.
Ford won the trophy last year, but that was the old model. The new, vastly improved model was a shoo-in for the title then, with the rugged all-terrain capabilities being matched by on-road dynamics and passenger comfort.
A vastly improved cabin brings the Ranger closer to SUVs than ever, with a 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen dominating the dashboard. Pickup drivers are most looking forward to the new 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, which brings more power — there’s 240hp available — and increased refinement without too much of a penalty at the fuel pumps.
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