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Published: 24 March 2026 | Last reviewed: 24 March 2026 | Reviewed by: VanCompare Editorial Team
Older “best mpg” van lists often used figures from older test cycles. Today, manufacturers quote economy using WLTP, and results can vary a lot by trim, wheelbase, gearbox and payload.
Below are current WLTP examples for popular small vans (compact LCVs). Treat them as “up to” guide figures, then check the exact variant you’re pricing.
Best diesel economy examples (WLTP)
Renault Kangoo Van (diesel)
Renault’s UK press specifications for Kangoo Van state the ENERGY dCi 115 can achieve up to 61.4mpg (WLTP) (with CO₂ figures depending on variant).
Mercedes-Benz Citan (diesel)
Auto Express reports Mercedes’ claim that the entry-level Citan (1.5 diesel) can achieve up to 55.4mpg WLTP combined (variant dependent).
Citroën Berlingo Van (diesel)
Citroën UK’s model page shows the Berlingo Van diesel manual can deliver 54.4–46.0mpg WLTP combined (depending on specification).
Ford Transit Connect (diesel)
Ford’s Transit Connect customer price list (effective 17 Feb 2026) lists the 2.0 EcoBlue 102PS manual van at up to 52.3mpg WLTP (with variant ranges shown in the table).
Peugeot Partner (diesel)
Peugeot UK lists Partner diesel combined fuel consumption of 5.2–6.1 L/100km (WLTP) (variant dependent). That’s roughly 54.3–46.3mpg (UK) if you convert it (lower L/100km = better).
Plug-in hybrid small vans (huge “mpg” — but only if you charge)
If you can reliably charge between shifts, plug-in hybrids can show very high WLTP “equivalent mpg” figures.
Auto Trader lists the Ford Transit Connect PHEV and Volkswagen Caddy Cargo eHybrid at up to 565mpg (WLTP-rated “equivalent” figure), with the important caveat that the real benefit depends on frequent charging and how much of your driving is electric.
Ford’s own Transit Connect price list shows PHEV entries separately with WLTP “weighted” figures and electric range data.
The practical reality: what actually makes a small van “economical”
WLTP is useful for comparing like-for-like, but your costs are usually decided by:
- Route profile: motorway miles vs stop-start urban work
- Payload: carrying “dead weight” every day is expensive
- Tyres & pressures: underinflation raises fuel use and wear
- Downtime/servicing: longer intervals and easy parts access matter
- Powertrain fit: EVs can be very cheap per mile if charging fits your duty cycle; PHEVs only shine when you actually plug in regularly
Quick buyer checklist (before you pick “the most economical”)
- Check the exact WLTP figure for the exact trim you’re buying (engine + gearbox + wheelbase changes mpg).
- Match the van to your typical daily mileage and payload (not your occasional maximum).
- If you’re considering PHEV/EV, confirm where the van will charge and what downtime you can tolerate.
Sources
- Renault UK press site — Kangoo Van WLTP economy (dCi 115 up to 61.4mpg):
- Mercedes Citan WLTP economy (up to 55.4mpg claimed) via Auto Express:
- Citroën UK — Berlingo Van WLTP mpg ranges:
- Ford UK — Transit Connect price list (Feb 2026 effective) with WLTP mpg by engine/variant:
- Peugeot UK — Partner diesel WLTP combined consumption (L/100km range):
- Auto Trader — PHEV “up to 565mpg” list incl. Transit Connect PHEV / Caddy eHybrid (with charging caveat):
VanCompare Editorial Team
The VanCompare Editorial Team produces clear, practical guidance on UK van insurance and related topics. We work with FCA authorised insurance providers and use insurer information where relevant to explain cover in plain English and help drivers make informed decisions.
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