Vans have been an integral part of automotive history, serving a wide range of purposes from family transportation to commercial use and adventure vehicles. This comprehensive list celebrates the 100 best vans of all time, spanning from early pioneers to modern marvels. These vehicles have been chosen based on their historical significance, technological innovations, design, popularity, and cultural impact.
1. Volkswagen Type 2 (T1) (1950-1967)
The iconic “Microbus” or “Kombi” that became a symbol of the 1960s counterculture. Its versatile design allowed for various configurations, including the popular camper van versions.
2. Ford Econoline (First Generation) (1961-1967)
Ford’s answer to the VW Type 2, featuring a forward-control design and based on Falcon components. It set the template for American vans for decades to come.
3. Chevrolet Corvair Greenbrier (1961-1965)
A unique rear-engined van based on the Corvair car platform, known for its innovative design and handling characteristics.
4. Volkswagen Type 2 (T2) (1967-1979)
The second generation of the VW van, featuring larger windows and a more powerful engine. It continued the popularity of its predecessor while offering improved performance and comfort.
5. Dodge A100 (1964-1970)
A compact forward-control van that competed with the Ford Econoline, featuring a range of six-cylinder and V8 engine options.
6. Chevrolet Van/GMC Vandura (1964-1996)
GM’s long-running full-size van platform that became a staple of American roads, available in passenger, cargo, and cutaway configurations.
7. Ford Transit (1965-Present)
A versatile van that has been a best-seller in Europe for decades, known for its wide range of configurations and adaptability to various uses.
8. Mercedes-Benz L319 (1955-1967)
An early example of Mercedes-Benz’s commercial vehicle expertise, setting the stage for future van models from the brand.
9. Renault Estafette (1959-1980)
A popular French van known for its distinctive design and front-wheel-drive layout, unusual for vans of its time.
10. Toyota HiAce (1967-Present)
A globally popular van known for its reliability and versatility, widely used in Asia and other markets for both commercial and passenger transport.
11. Fiat 238 (1967-1983)
An Italian van that was widely used for commercial purposes and as a base for camper conversions.
12. Bedford CF (1969-1987)
A British van that was popular for both commercial use and camper conversions, known for its rugged design.
13. Chrysler Voyager/Dodge Caravan (1984-Present)
The vehicle that popularized the minivan concept in North America, revolutionizing family transportation.
14. Toyota Previa (1990-1999)
A uniquely designed minivan with a mid-mounted engine, known for its egg-shaped body and innovative layout.
15. Renault Espace (1984-Present)
One of the first European MPVs (multi-purpose vehicles), setting a new standard for family transportation in Europe.
16. Volkswagen T3/T25 (1979-1992)
The third generation of VW’s popular van, retaining the rear-engine layout but with a more angular design.
17. GMC Safari/Chevrolet Astro (1985-2005)
A popular midsize van that offered a compromise between the full-size vans and the new minivans of the 1980s.
18. Mercedes-Benz MB100 (1981-1995)
A compact van that helped establish Mercedes-Benz in the light commercial vehicle market in Europe and other regions.
19. Nissan Vanette (1978-2016)
A versatile Japanese van that saw widespread use in various markets, known for its reliability and practicality.
20. Ford Aerostar (1986-1997)
Ford’s first minivan, featuring a unique aerodynamic design and available all-wheel drive.
21. Mitsubishi Delica (1968-Present)
A versatile Japanese van known for its 4×4 variants, popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
22. Volkswagen T4 (1990-2003)
The first front-engined VW van, marking a significant shift in the model’s design and capabilities.
23. Toyota Sienna (1997-Present)
A popular minivan in the North American market, known for its reliability and family-friendly features.
24. Honda Odyssey (1994-Present)
Honda’s successful entry into the minivan market, known for its car-like handling and innovative features.
25. Mercedes-Benz Vito (1996-Present)
A versatile mid-size van that has become popular for both commercial and passenger use across Europe.
26. Ford Transit Connect (2002-Present)
A compact van that helped popularize the small commercial van segment in North America.
27. Volkswagen California (1988-Present)
A factory-built camper van based on various VW van platforms, popular among camping enthusiasts.
28. Ram ProMaster (2013-Present)
Based on the Fiat Ducato, this versatile full-size van has become popular for commercial use and camper conversions in North America.
29. Renault Trafic (1980-Present)
A popular European van that has been rebadged by various manufacturers, known for its practicality and versatility.
30. Kia Carnival/Sedona (1998-Present)
Kia’s entry into the minivan market, offering a blend of style, features, and value.
31. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (1995-Present)
A highly regarded large van known for its reliability, advanced features, and popularity for camper conversions.
32. Volkswagen T5 (2003-2015)
The fifth generation of VW’s popular van series, offering improved performance and modern amenities.
33. Ford E-Series (1961-2014)
Ford’s long-running full-size van platform, a staple of American roads for over five decades.
34. Chrysler Town & Country (1990-2016)
A luxury-oriented minivan that helped elevate the segment with premium features and styling.
35. Citroën H Van (1947-1981)
An iconic French van with a distinctive corrugated body, widely used for commercial purposes and food trucks.
36. Volkswagen LT (1975-2006)
VW’s larger van offering, competing in the light commercial vehicle segment.
37. Toyota Alphard (2002-Present)
A luxury MPV popular in Asian markets, known for its spacious interior and high-end features.
38. Peugeot Expert (1995-Present)
A versatile mid-size van that has been popular in Europe for commercial and passenger use.
39. Iveco Daily (1978-Present)
A robust light commercial vehicle that bridges the gap between vans and light trucks.
40. Ford Tourneo (1995-Present)
The passenger version of the Ford Transit, offering car-like amenities in a van package.
41. Hyundai Starex/iMax (1997-Present)
A popular van in Asian and Australian markets, known for its versatility and value.
42. Mercedes-Benz V-Class (1996-Present)
A luxury MPV that offers van practicality with Mercedes-Benz premium features.
43. Fiat Ducato (1981-Present)
A popular base for motorhomes and camper conversions, also widely used as a commercial van.
44. Nissan NV200 (2009-Present)
A compact commercial van that has found success in various markets, including as New York City’s “Taxi of Tomorrow.”
45. Volkswagen T6 (2015-Present)
The latest generation of VW’s popular van series, offering modern technology and refined driving dynamics.
46. Ford Galaxy (1995-Present)
Ford’s European large MPV, popular for family and executive transport.
47. Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro (2001-Present)
A mid-size van developed in collaboration with Renault, popular in European markets.
48. Toyota Hiace Super Grandia (1967-Present)
A luxury version of the HiAce, popular in Southeast Asian markets for executive transport.
49. Chrysler Pacifica (2017-Present)
A modern minivan that has helped revitalize the segment with its hybrid powertrain option and upscale features.
50. Mercedes-Benz Citan (2012-Present)
Mercedes-Benz’s entry into the compact van segment, based on the Renault Kangoo.
51. Ford Transit Custom (2012-Present)
A mid-size van that has become popular for both commercial and passenger use in Europe and other markets.
52. Volkswagen Routan (2008-2014)
A rebadged version of the Chrysler minivans for the North American market, offering VW styling cues.
53. Renault Kangoo (1997-Present)
A popular compact van in Europe, known for its practicality and car-like driving characteristics.
54. Hyundai Staria (2021-Present)
A futuristic-looking MPV that showcases Hyundai’s modern design language and technology.
55. Fiat Doblo (2000-Present)
A compact van that has found success in Europe for both commercial and passenger use.
56. Toyota Proace (2013-Present)
Toyota’s mid-size van offering for the European market, developed in collaboration with PSA Peugeot Citroën.
57. Mercedes-Benz EQV (2020-Present)
An all-electric luxury MPV, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to electrification in the van segment.
58. Volkswagen ID. Buzz (2022-Present)
A modern electric reinterpretation of the classic VW Microbus, combining retro styling with cutting-edge technology.
59. Ford Transit Trail (2020-Present)
An off-road oriented version of the popular Transit van, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
60. Nissan e-NV200 (2014-2022)
One of the first mass-produced electric vans, popular for urban deliveries and small businesses.
61. RAM ProMaster City (2015-Present)
A compact commercial van based on the Fiat Doblo, tailored for the North American market.
62. Peugeot Traveller (2016-Present)
A modern MPV offering from Peugeot, sharing a platform with Citroën and Toyota variants.
63. Volkswagen Caddy (1979-Present)
A popular small van that has evolved from a pickup-based design to a purpose-built van platform.
64. Mercedes-Benz Metris (2014-Present)
The North American version of the Vito, offering a mid-size van option in a market dominated by full-size vans.
65. Citroën Berlingo (1996-Present)
A versatile small van that has been popular for both commercial use and as a practical family vehicle.
66. Ford Tourneo Connect (2002-Present)
The passenger version of the Transit Connect, offering a compact MPV option in Ford’s lineup.
67. Opel/Vauxhall Combo (1986-Present)
A small van that has shared platforms with Fiat and PSA Group vehicles over its generations.
68. Toyota ProAce City (2019-Present)
Toyota’s compact van offering for the European market, based on PSA Group’s small van platform.
69. Renault Trafic SpaceClass (2017-Present)
A luxury passenger version of the Trafic, aimed at the executive shuttle market.
70. Volkswagen Multivan (1985-Present)
A more luxurious passenger version of VW’s van lineup, popular for family and executive transport.
71. Mercedes-Benz eSprinter (2019-Present)
The all-electric version of the popular Sprinter van, catering to businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
72. Ford E-Transit (2022-Present)
The all-electric version of Ford’s popular Transit van, marking a significant step in commercial vehicle electrification.
73. Nissan Serena (1991-Present)
A popular MPV in Asian markets, known for its practicality and innovative features.
74. Fiat Scudo (1995-Present)
A mid-size van that has been developed in collaboration with PSA Peugeot Citroën, popular in European markets.
75. Renault Master (1980-Present)
A large van that has been a popular choice for commercial use and motorhome conversions across Europe.
76. Volkswagen Crafter (2006-Present)
VW’s largest van offering, competing in the heavy-duty commercial van segment.
77. Mercedes-Benz T-Class (2022-Present)
A premium compact van based on the Renault Kangoo, offering Mercedes-Benz luxury in a smaller package.
78. Fiat Talento (2016-2020)
A rebadged version of the Renault Trafic, expanding Fiat’s commercial vehicle lineup in Europe.
79. Opel/Vauxhall Movano (1998-Present)
A large van that has shared platforms with Renault and Nissan over its generations.
80. Toyota GranAce (2019-Present)
A luxury MPV based on the HiAce platform, popular in Asian markets for executive transport.
81. Citroën SpaceTourer (2016-Present)
A modern MPV from Citroën, sharing a platform with Peugeot and Toyota variants.
82. Ford Flex (2009-2019)
While technically a crossover, its boxy design and spacious interior made it a spiritual successor to traditional vans.
83. Renault Scenic (1996-Present)
A compact MPV that helped popularize the segment in Europe, known for its practicality and innovative design.
84. LEVC VN5 (2020-Present)
An range-extended electric van from the makers of London’s iconic black cabs, designed for urban deliveries.
85. Volkswagen Transporter (T7) (2022-Present)
The latest generation of VW’s iconic van series, offering advanced technology and electrified powertrains.
86. Fiat Ulysse (1994-2010)
A large MPV developed in collaboration with PSA Group, popular in European markets.
87. Nissan Elgrand (1997-Present)
A luxury MPV popular in Asian markets, known for its spacious interior and high-end features.
88. Mercedes-Benz Viano (2003-2014)
The predecessor to the V-Class, offering a more luxurious take on the Vito commercial van.
89. Peugeot Rifter (2018-Present)
A modern interpretation of the small MPV, based on Peugeot’s compact van platform.
90. Volkswagen Sharan (1995-2022)
A large MPV developed in collaboration with Ford, popular for family transport in Europe.
91. Ford S-Max (2006-Present)
A sporty MPV that combines practicality with dynamic driving characteristics.
92. Citroën Jumpy (1994-Present)
A mid-size van that has been popular for both commercial and passenger use in Europe.
93. Toyota Granvia (1995-2002, 2019-Present)
A luxury MPV based on the HiAce platform, recently revived for select markets.
94. Renault Grand Scenic (2004-Present)
A larger version of the Scenic, offering more space for families needing a seven-seat option.
95. Volkswagen Viloran (2020-Present)
A large luxury MPV developed for the Chinese market, showcasing VW’s upmarket ambitions in the segment.
96. Fiat 600 Multipla (1956-1969)
An early MPV with an innovative design, featuring a flexible interior layout that could seat up to six people.
97. Opel/Vauxhall Zafira Life (2019-Present)
A modern MPV based on PSA Group’s van platform, offering versatility and style.
98. SsangYong Rodius/Stavic (2004-2019)
A uniquely styled large MPV that gained attention for its unconventional design.
99. LDV V80 (2011-Present)
A versatile van from the revived LDV brand, popular in markets like Australia and the UK.
100. Volkswagen I.D. Buzz Cargo (Concept)
An electric cargo van concept based on the ID. Buzz, showcasing the potential future of commercial electric vans.
Conclusion
The world of vans has evolved significantly since the introduction of pioneering models like the Volkswagen Type 2 and the Ford Econoline. From humble workhorses to luxurious people movers, vans have adapted to changing needs and technologies over the decades. This list of the 100 best vans of all time showcases the diversity and innovation that has characterized the van segment throughout automotive history.
Many of these vans have played significant roles in shaping culture and society. The Volkswagen Type 2, for example, became an icon of the 1960s counterculture movement, while the Chrysler minivans revolutionized family transportation in North America. Commercial vans like the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter have been the backbone of countless businesses, while camper vans have enabled generations of travelers to explore the world on their own terms.
In recent years, we’ve seen a trend towards more efficient and environmentally friendly vans, with manufacturers introducing hybrid and all-electric models. The Volkswagen ID. Buzz represents a fusion of nostalgia and cutting-edge technology, reimagining the classic Microbus for the electric age. Meanwhile, vans like the Ford E-Transit and Mercedes-Benz eSprinter are paving the way for zero-emission commercial transport.
The van segment has also been at the forefront of innovation in autonomous driving and connectivity. Many modern vans feature advanced driver assistance systems, turning them into safer and more efficient vehicles for both commercial and personal use. The rise of van life and remote work culture has also spurred development in the camper van and mobile office segments, with manufacturers offering increasingly sophisticated and comfortable mobile living spaces.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that vans will continue to play a crucial role in both personal and commercial transportation. The push towards electrification is likely to accelerate, with more manufacturers offering zero-emission options across their van lineups. We may also see further development in autonomous delivery vans and innovative last-mile solutions for urban areas.
The versatility of the van format ensures its continued relevance in a changing automotive landscape. Whether it’s transporting families, serving as mobile businesses, delivering goods, or enabling adventure, vans have proven their adaptability time and time again. From the iconic designs of the past to the high-tech marvels of today and tomorrow, the best vans of all time represent not just excellent engineering and design, but the enduring human desires for mobility, practicality, and freedom.
