Arctic Van Test 2008: Conclusion

The test team was at pains to point out that all five contenders showed far more positive attributes than negatives. But, as time and the degrees of latitude moved ever upwards, so the differences became more pronounced. That said, though, at the end of the test, only 4.6 points out of a potential 200 seperated the five. Maybe it was inevitable that the Ducato and Transit's more van-like origins should see them finish in fifth and third spots respectively, but fourth spot was taken by the most car like, the Citroën Dispatch, a soaraway winner on running costs and a comfortable drive to boot.

But you can't beat a good compromise, and it was the all-round abilities of the German pair that saw them take gold and silver. The VW proved a solid all-round performer with a great cabin, but it was the Merc that took the honours on this one, but only by a mere three-tenths of a point.

• Introduction
• Fiat Ducato
• Ford Tourneo
• Volkswagen Caravelle
• Mercedes-Benz Vito
• Citroën Dispatch