Which small van is the most fuel-efficient on diesel?

For many business owners, fuel costs account for a large proportion of their total running costs. If you’re considering a to buy a small van, fuel consumption is therefore one of the first things you’ll want to compare. Diesel remains popular for business use, but not every small van guzzles the same amount of fuel. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about diesel fuel consumption in small vans, so that you can make an informed choice.

Whether you’re looking for a compact delivery van, a double-cab van Whether you’re looking out for your team, or simply want to know when diesel is still the smarter choice compared to electric driving: you’ll find clear answers here. We’ll guide you through everything from the basics to practical driving strategies.

Which small van uses the least diesel?

Among small diesel vans, the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit Connect and Renault Kangoo are generally the most fuel-efficient. In practice, modern versions of these models achieve fuel consumption of between 5.5 and 7 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on load, driving style and conditions. The Volkswagen Caddy is known for its efficient TDI engines and aerodynamic bodywork.

A round-up of the most fuel-efficient models

Small vans generally fall into the up-to-3.5-tonne category and have a load space of between 2 and 4 cubic metres. Within this category, the following models offer good fuel economy:

• Volkswagen Caddy Cargo TDI: Known for its low fuel consumption and driving comfort, it is popular with self-employed people and service engineers.
• Ford Transit Connect EcoBlue: Ford’s EcoBlue diesel engine combines power with fuel efficiency, making it ideal for urban distribution.
• Renault Kangoo Blue dCi: Compact and manoeuvrable, with good fuel economy in town and on the motorway.
• Citroën Berlingo BlueHDi: One of the best-selling small vans in Europe, with a proven track record of fuel efficiency.
• Peugeot Partner BlueHDi: Technically identical to the Berlingo, with similar fuel consumption figures.

What do the consumption figures actually show in practice?

Manufacturer’s figures are a guide, but the reality often differs from them. If you mainly drive in town with a lot of stop-and-go traffic, fuel consumption can easily be 20 to 30 per cent higher than the stated test figure. On the motorway or in mixed driving conditions, you’ll be closer to the manufacturer’s figure. Bear this in mind when calculating your total running costs.

What factors influence a van’s diesel consumption?

The diesel consumption of a small van is determined by a combination of engine type, vehicle weight, load, driving style and driving conditions. None of these factors stands alone: a heavy load on a city route involving frequent acceleration has a much greater effect on fuel consumption than the same load on a quiet motorway.

Engine type and engine capacity

Modern turbocharged, direct-injection diesel engines are considerably more efficient than older generations. A smaller-capacity turbocharged engine, such as a 1.5- or 1.6-litre diesel engine, actually uses less fuel than a larger 2.0-litre engine, provided you do not constantly drive it at the limit of its power. The presence of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) does not have a major impact on fuel consumption, but it does require regular periods of driving at higher speeds to allow for regeneration.

Load and weight

Every additional 100 kilograms of load noticeably increases fuel consumption. If you regularly drive with a full load bed, it’s worth looking at a model with a slightly more powerful engine, so that you don’t have to put as much strain on it. Unnecessary extra weight, such as toolboxes you don’t need every day, also makes a difference.

Driving conditions and use

City driving is the biggest enemy of low diesel consumption. Frequent braking and acceleration consume a lot of energy. If you mainly drive outside built-up areas or on the motorway, you’ll benefit from lower fuel consumption. The condition of your tyres, tyre pressure and the use of air conditioning also play a part.

How do you compare the fuel consumption of small vans?

To compare the fuel consumption of small vans fairly, it’s best to look at the combined WLTP consumption (litres per 100 km) and compare it with your own driving style. The WLTP test cycle is more realistic than the old NEDC standard, but it still reflects an ideal scenario. Use it as a starting point, not as a guarantee.

WLTP versus actual fuel consumption

The WLTP standard tests vehicles under standardised conditions: a mix of urban, extra-urban and motorway driving. For vans that are mainly driven in town, real-world fuel consumption is consistently higher. When buying or leasing, always ask about other users’ experiences with the same model and driving profile. This will give you a better picture than the official test figures.

Calculate total fuel costs

For a fair comparison, look beyond just the fuel consumption per 100 kilometres. Also take the following into account:

• The average price of diesel at the time of purchase and the expected price trend
• The number of kilometres you drive each year
• Motor vehicle tax, which varies for diesel vehicles depending on weight category
• Any low-emission zones in cities you visit regularly

By taking all these factors into account, you get a realistic picture of the total fuel costs over the vehicle’s lifetime. This is certainly relevant if you also have a electric company car lease is considering as an alternative.

When is a diesel van still the right choice?

A diesel van is still a good choice if you cover a lot of kilometres outside the city, carry heavy loads, or if the charging infrastructure in your region is insufficient for electric driving. If you cover a high annual mileage on motorways and country roads, diesel is more efficient than petrol and is currently often cheaper per kilometre than many electric alternatives, based on total cost of ownership.

When diesel makes less sense

In urban driving, with short journeys and frequent stops, diesel loses its advantage. The engine does not warm up sufficiently for efficient combustion, the particulate filter can become clogged and fuel consumption increases. If you mainly drive in cities with low-emission zones, you also run the risk of older diesel vehicles being banned from entering these areas.

Diesel versus electric for business use

The choice between diesel and electric depends very much on your day-to-day driving needs. Electric vans have low energy costs per kilometre and offer tax advantages for business drivers. However, the higher purchase price and the more limited range make them less suitable for those who frequently drive long distances or do not have charging facilities at their place of work. In such situations, diesel remains a practical and affordable choice. If you are still considering making the switch, it is worth looking at what a electric company car lease what the specific costs and benefits are in your situation.

How can you drive a diesel van more economically?

Driving a diesel van more economically starts with a smooth driving style: changing gear early, anticipating traffic and avoiding unnecessary braking. By driving in a higher gear at a lower revs, you’ll use considerably less fuel. Small changes to your driving behaviour can reduce fuel consumption by 10 to 20 per cent, without slowing you down on your way to your destination.

Practical tips for reducing consumption

• Switch on early: With diesel engines, change up to a higher gear at around 2,000 revs.
• Keep your distance: Keeping a greater following distance gives you more time to anticipate and reduces the need to brake.
• Check tyre pressure: Inflating tyres to a pressure that is too low increases rolling resistance and, consequently, fuel consumption.
• Use the air conditioning sensibly: Air conditioning increases fuel consumption; only use it when it’s really necessary.
• Remove any unnecessary load: Don’t habitually ride with weight you don’t need.
• Use cruise control: On motorways, driving at a constant speed results in lower fuel consumption than driving at varying speeds.

Maintenance and consumption

A well-maintained engine uses less fuel. Regular oil changes, a clean air filter and a properly functioning particulate filter ensure that the engine performs at its best. Don’t put off servicing for too long, as a dirty engine has to work harder and uses more fuel than necessary.

How we help you choose the right van

At Van den Hurk Commercial Vehicles, we understand that fuel costs play a major role in day-to-day business operations. Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient small diesel van, a double-cab van Whether you’re looking for a vehicle for your team or want to switch to electric driving, we’ll help you make the right choice based on your driving profile and budget.

What we can do for you:

• Personalised advice on the most economical model for your specific needs
• A wide range of used and new small vans, including electric models
• Flexible leasing options, including for the self-employed and SMEs looking for a Want to buy small van or lease
• Transparent prices with no hidden costs
• More than 60 years of experience in the Helmond and North Brabant region

Would you like to find out which van is best suited to your business? Then please get in touch with us or take a look at our current offer of commercial vehicles on the website. We’d be happy to help you find a solution.