Which Van Won the 2026 Auto Express Mid‑size Van of the Year? – Ford Transit Custom

Ford Transit Custom Wins the 2026 Mid‑size Van of the Year Award

The Ford Transit Custom has been announced as the 2026 Auto Express Mid‑size Van of the Year. The accolade, presented by the respected UK automotive publication Auto Express, recognises the model as the standout choice within the mid‑size van segment for the year.

What the Award Signifies

Being named Mid‑size Van of the Year highlights the Transit Custom’s position within the UK market. The award is granted after a review of the vehicles competing in the mid‑size category, assessing each model against the criteria set by Auto Express. While the specific judging criteria are not detailed here, the result indicates a strong endorsement from the industry publication.

Other Vehicles Recognised in the Same Category

In addition to the Ford Transit Custom, Auto Express also commended two other contenders:

• Medium‑size vans produced by Stellantis – the group that includes brands such as Peugeot, Citroën and Vauxhall.
• The Volkswagen Transporter – a long‑standing player in the mid‑size van market.

Both the Stellantis medium vans and the Volkswagen Transporter received official commendations, signalling that they performed well against the panel’s assessment but fell short of the top position.

Why the Recognition Matters to Dealers

For dealership networks and pricing platforms such as DealerPricing.co.uk, the Mid‑size Van of the Year title offers a clear signal of market interest. Knowing that the Ford Transit Custom holds the award can help dealers prioritise stock, adjust valuation models and target marketing efforts toward a model that has earned industry approval.

Similarly, the commendations for Stellantis’ medium vans and the Volkswagen Transporter provide useful data points. While they do not carry the top award, their recognition suggests they remain competitive options for customers exploring the mid‑size van segment.

Implications for Buyers and Fleet Managers

Prospective buyers and fleet managers often look to awards as an indicator of reliability, resale value and overall suitability for business use. The 2026 Auto Express Mid‑size Van of the Year badge on the Ford Transit Custom therefore serves as a credible endorsement that can influence purchasing decisions.

At the same time, the commendations for the Stellantis medium vans and the Volkswagen Transporter remind buyers that there are several strong alternatives within the segment, each offering its own blend of features and brand heritage.

Conclusion

The announcement of the Ford Transit Custom as the 2026 Auto Express Mid‑size Van of the Year, alongside commendations for Stellantis’ medium‑size vans and the Volkswagen Transporter, underlines the competitive nature of the UK mid‑size van market. Dealers, pricing analysts and buyers can all use this information to guide inventory decisions, valuation strategies and purchase plans for the coming year.