The capabilities of these new heavy-duty and compact cargo vans might mean you've purchased your last work truck.
Get the capabilities of a full-size van with better fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and lower operating costs in the GM City Express. Access more than 120 cubic feet of cargo space from the dual rear sliding doors, and 40/60 split rear cargo doors that open to 90 and 180 degrees. A fold-down passenger’s seat double as a work surface. The cargo area offers 20 tie-down points and 4.5 feet between the side walls. Project managers on the go will appreciate the laptop/hanging-file storage space in the center console. chevrolet.com
Available in passenger van and wagon versions, three lengths, three heights, and two wheel bases, the Ford Transit offers versatility and convenience. The medium-roof and high-roof van models (72- and 81.5-inches high, respectively) are also available with dual sliding doors. The vans are designed for easy upfitting with shelving and other cargo storage. Rear cargo doors open up to 237 degrees for loading and unloading. Drivers will appreciate the standard rearview camera, and Ford’s Sync 3 communications and entertainment system with conversational voice recognition, and an intuitive touchscreen. Choose from a variety of engine options, including a CNG/propane engine prep package. ford.com
All new to the U.S. for the 2016 model year, the Mercedes-Benz Metris is the younger brother to the brand’s benchmark Sprinter van. The van offers impressive payload of 2,502 pounds for the cargo model (1,874 for the passenger model), with up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. Access to cargo contents is easy with rear doors that open a full 270 degrees to stay well out of the way during loading and unloading, plus dual sliding doors on the sides. Drivers will appreciate features like the console’s 5.8-inch color screen with Bluetooth connectivity, and Crosswind Assist that applies brakes to individual wheels in response to gusts and crosswinds at highway speeds. mbsprinterusa.com
The 2016 NV200 is Nissan’s latest compact cargo update. The vehicle offers a 25 mpg combined fuel economy, thanks to the efficient 2 liter DOHC 4 cylinder engine. Inside, six available floor-mounted D rings and 20 integrated cargo mounting points allow for upfitting and securing all types of cargo, in up to 122 cubic feet of cargo space. Other features include a 36.7-foot turning diameter, mobile office space with a fold-down front seat work desk, and a multifunctional center console with NissanConnect navigation and mobile apps. nissancommercialvehicles.com
Ram has used commercial customer feedback plus inspiration from its Fiat Professional sister company to upgrade its 2016 ProMaster City. Four available models allow for cargo and passenger accommodations. The compact cargo van features a steel unibody design to minimize curb weight and maximize payload to best-in-class 1,883 pounds. ProMaster City offers 48.4 inches between the rear wheel wells, an interior roof height of 51.8 inches, and a total volume of 131.7 cubic feet. The vertical side panels are easy to up-fit with shelves or storage racks, and the roof is prepped for load rails or roof racks. Larger ProMaster cargo vans feature roof heights up to 74 inches, low 21-inch floors for easy step-in, and a 36-foot turning radius. ramtrucks.com
