Best-seller battle: Ford Transit vs Peugeot Boxer

We're sure that by now, you'll have read about how the demand for large vans is not only growing, but driving (ahem!) the growth of the commercial vehicle market.

At Vansdirect, we supply everything from small, medium and large vans to pickups. Ford continues to dominate the manufacturer's charts in terms of units sold - accounting for over a quarter of vans sold this year. Following closely, however, is the Peugeot Boxer.

So, we were interested to compare the two best-selling large new vans in our range to see which - if any - was the better choice. We have two specific derivatives facing off; the Ford Transit (L3H2 125PS) in 'Trend' trim against the Peugeot Boxer (L3H2 130PS) Professional.

Both are the 'top-spec' versions of each van and as such, come with a host of additional features that you'd usually find on the options list. We'll look at the figures from two perspectives - features and functionality.

As you can imagine, given the similar specifications of the two vans, there's not a lot in it. But if loadspace is a concern or door apertures need to meet your requirements it may well be the case that one van is a better choice than the other.

New vans: Functionality

The primary purpose of a van is to perform a certain function, so we'll start by looking at the dimensions and capacities of each van.

On face value, the Boxer seems to have the edge on the Transit. We have eleven categories and the Boxer comes out on top in seven of those. While it may be a clear winner, the differences are minimal.

Let's start with the most significant. A load volume of 13 cubic metres for the Boxer clearly beats out the Transit's 11.5 cubic metres, as does the load length - at 3705mm, the Boxer is a full 200mm longer than the Transit, which sits at 3494mm. With Peugeot's van, you also benefit from an additional 40kg of payload.

The Boxer's combined fuel economy of 38.2mpg may not sound advantageous against the Transit's 36.2mpg, but let's say you use 1000 gallons of fuel every year - you'd get an extra 2000 miles from the Boxer than the Transit using the same amount of fuel.

Ford's flagship van seems to be faring pretty badly here, but don't worry Transit fans - it's not a total wipeout. The Transit's sliding side door has an aperture a full 50mm wider than the Boxer's, which could be crucial in getting an awkward item through effortlessly.

The Transit also delivers more Torque from less power. Ford's 2.2-litre 125PS engine produces 350Nm of torque, compared to the Boxer's 320Nm from its 2.2-litre 130PS power unit.

The remaining figures paint a different picture. The Boxer edges all of them, albeit slightly. An extra 50mm headroom, 30mm between the wheel arches and a rear door aperture that's 170mm wider than the Transit.

New vans: Features

The features of each van are more focused towards convenience and comfort. Whether it makes your life easier or it's just a 'nice-to-have', both of these top-spec vans come with a host of great features. But which matters more to you?

It's much more of a close call in terms of features. Both are large vans, and as such they can be slightly tricky to park. You'll be please to know, then, that the Transit comes with both front and rear parking sensors. Covered from all angles! The Boxer, in comparison, 'only' has them at the rear of the van.

Both vans come with steel wheels, with a slight difference. The Boxer will provide wheels in 'raw' form - as they come. Ford's alternative is a little more aesthetically pleasing, coming with hub caps to cover up those unsightly steelies.

Inside the cabin is where Peugeot regains the lead. With air conditioning, DAB Radio, a touchscreen interface and integrated navigation it's a clear winner - the Transit has none of these. Both come with cruise control (and speed limiter) as well as Bluetooth connectivity.

Going back outside, Ford have included some nice touches with the Trend level trim. As standard come front fog lights and automatic windscreen wipers and headlights. It would seem that Ford have concentrated their focus on working functionality with the Transit - whereas Peugeot take a more rounded approach, ensuring an good level of equipment both in terms of functionality and features.

Large vans on finance

Ultimately, the choice is yours. You may be more interested in certain aspects of each van and as long as that suits your requirements, that's fine. Still undecided? Give our knowledgeable van specialists a call on 0845 021 0444 or enquire online - they'd be delighted to answer your questions!