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The Latest in Cargo Vans

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The Latest in Cargo Vans

Today's mobile workhorses offer features well-suited to home improvement pros


By By David Weissman September 26, 2016
metris
This article first appeared in the October 2016 issue of Pro Remodeler.

Photos: All images provided by the featured manufacturers

The distinct, boxy look of cargo vans makes trade professionals easy to spot—on the job, on the road, or at home. And the wide range of options means that remodelers can customize their four-wheeled workplaces like never before. Extra-tall roofs, fuel-conversion kits, Wi-Fi hotspots, and 270-degree rear doors are featured in these 2016 and 2017 models from Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Ram, Chevrolet, and GMC.

And if you notice that some manufacturers aren't included here—the Nissan NV and NV200 among them—it's simply because at press time, specs for their latest vehicles weren't yet available. We'll add the 2017 info from those brands, and more, as it's released. 

2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris

This stylish van boasts car-like handling with a best-in-class turning radius for tight city streets. Design features incorporated into the midsize Metris cargo van include double rear doors that open a full 270 degrees for maximum clearance. Spacious enough to lay 4x8 plywood sheets on the floor, the Metris is still small enough to tuck neatly into a garage. Full details are available here.

2016 Sprinter Worker

Available in 140- and 170-inch wheel base lengths, the Sprinter Worker delivers power and fuel economy with an exclusive, two-stage turbocharged BlueTEC diesel engine. Aimed at trades such as plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and general contracting, the all-white model is a perfect canvas for companies to display their signage. Full details are available here.

2017 Ford Transit XLT

Designed as a versatile haul-it-all, the Transit XLT van comes with the option of three different roof heights, three lengths, and three engines for ultimate customization. Cargo volumes range from small (246 cubic feet) to big (487 cubic feet) on a van that offers a package that can convert the vehicle to natural gas or propane. Full details are available here.

2016 Chevrolet Express

The 2016 lineup from Chevrolet includes the ¾-ton 2500 and the 1-ton 3500, each available in extended versions. New features include updated styling, a new engine, and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The exterior has 16-inch wheels and a swing-out passenger side cargo door. A roof rack, enhanced interior lighting, cruise control, and Wi-Fi capability are available options. Full details are available here.

2017 Ram ProMaster

The ProMaster’s attractive pricing and available options should give it a healthy share of the cargo van market. The ½ ton (1500), ¾ ton (2500), and 1 ton (3500) options make efficient use of space and feature low step-in height. Heated, swiveling seats, upfitter switches, satellite radio, and Bluetooth hands-free communications are also available. Full details are available here.

2016 GMC Savana

Available driver-side access panels and storage bins on the Savana 2500 and 2500 Extended models offer the flexibility to tackle any job. The all-new available spray-in cargo liner protects the inside from dings and scrapes. Stabilitrak with traction control is designed to respond to sudden steering and braking commands. The Savana’s tow/haul mode lets drivers shift gears manually and enables activation of automatic braking on grades. Full details are available here.

Ford Transit Connect XL, XLT

Ford’s smaller, thinner cousins of the XLT van are the 2017 Transit Connect models, each available in short and long wheel base versions. Ford upgraded the LED lighting in its cargo vans for greater visibility. The standard engine in both models delivers an EPA estimated 20 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. A smaller, turbo-charged engine is available. The 180-degree swing-out rear cargo doors and privacy glass windows come standard on the XLT. Full details are available here.

Ram ProMaster City

Designed as the ProMaster’s smaller, more nimble cousin, the ProMaster City boasts best-in-class payload, low step-in heights of 21.5 inches at the rear and 18.8 inches at the side. A flat floor, near vertical walls and a roof rack are available options. Full details are available here.

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written by

David Weissman

David Weissman is associate editor for Professional Remodeler


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