The Van Expert

Toyota has introduced a new two-seat version of the Hilux pickup, giving business users additional secure carrying space inside the cab. The ninth-generation Hilux launched earlier this year exclusively as a Double Cab, but Toyota’s new factory conversion removes the three-seat rear bench and replaces it with a large, flat load area. Measuring 1,290mm wide and 640mm deep, the additional space is intended for tools and other equipment that owners may prefer to keep securely inside the vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz has announced a new Vito ‘Sport-X‘, a UK-exclusive flagship version of its Crew van that combines additional equipment with motorsport-inspired styling. Created to mark 130 years of transportation, the Sport-X is based on the existing Vito ‘Select’ trim grade and will sit at the top of the Crew van range when orders open in September.

Volkswagen has updated the ID. Buzz Cargo with a new battery that brings a longer electric range, more power and a notably lower starting price. The new 58kWh version replaces the previous 59kWh model, but despite its slightly smaller quoted battery capacity, efficiency improvements to the battery cells increase the van’s WLTP range by 17 miles, from 201 to 218 miles. Power also rises from 170hp to 190hp, giving businesses a little more performance without compromising range.

The UK new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market recorded a fourth consecutive month of growth in July, with registrations rising 22% year-on-year, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). While the LCV market’s start to 2026 was rather concerning with three months of year-on-year sales declines, registration numbers have picked up since, the SMMT reporting that sales totals for the year are now up 4% when compared the first seven months of 2025.

BYD is bringing its Shark plug-in hybrid pick-up to the UK, giving operators a petrol-electric alternative to the diesel models that still dominate the pick-up market. The Shark is BYD’s first pick-up and will arrive as a five-seat double-cab model with four-wheel drive. Prices start from £47,290 including VAT, with UK deliveries due before the end of the year. The Shark is BYD’s first pick-up and will arrive as a five-seat double-cab model with four-wheel drive.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has added a plug-in hybrid version to the Volkswagen Transporter range for the first time, giving operators another option alongside diesel and electric models. The new Transporter eHybrid is available as a Panel Van, Kombi and Shuttle, with prices starting from £38,155 excluding VAT. Volkswagen says the plug-in hybrid can travel up to 35 miles on electric power, depending on the body style.

Farizon has added a new Sport trim to its SV electric van range, bringing a more distinctive exterior look but no mechanical changes from the standard L1H1 model. The Farizon SV Sport has been developed with CPD Bodies, an authorised Farizon converter, and is initially available only on L1H1 versions. Farizon has not yet confirmed pricing, so operators will need to wait before judging whether the styling upgrade makes commercial sense. The changes are mostly cosmetic.

The UK new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market recorded a third consecutive month of growth in June, with registrations rising 11% year-on-year, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). While overall demand remains positive, market growth continues to be reliant on rising large van registrations, while pickup and small van sales falling once again year-on-year in June.

Make and model: Mitsubishi L200 Barbarian Description: Double-cab pick-up Price range: £36,295 to £39,995 CVOTR Summary: The new Mitsubishi L200 is a capable and convincing return to the UK pick-up market, with strong towing, off-road ability and a surprisingly polished drive. More Mitsubishi van and pick-up reviews, news and features The new Mitsubishi L200 is a significant vehicle for Mitsubishi in the UK.

Vauxhall is one of the most familiar names in British motoring, and its van range remains a major part of the UK light-commercial market. The badge is well known, the dealer network is broad and the company has a commercial vehicle history that stretches back through Bedford to the early days of the van market. Today’s Vauxhall vans are also closely related to other models sold across the Stellantis group.