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Originally Posted by cRiPpLe_rOoStEr
Would you eventually consider another FWD van such as a Fiat Ducato or a Renault Master instead of the Iveco? BTW what do you think about the Toyota HiAce (sure, it's RWD, but I still like it)? I wish this one was officially available in my country...
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In my opinion, the Renault is the easiest to drive and has the best ride (best economy too since it's a 1.6 BiTurbo with EPAS and standard stop/start). The Ducato is the most 'sporty' we only get the 3.0/ 180hp engine, it's the smallest on the outside, but biggest on the inside. Down side is it's very tall geared unless you get the heavy duty 'Maxi' version. The new Iveco still drives like a truck, but you get a wide range of engine options and can pick what final drive you want. Tuning circle of the SWB is smaller than my SWB Kangoo. Of the lot I would expect the Iveco to be most reliable, followed by Ducato and Renault have issues with their DCi engines. The most sensible choice for me might be a Transit Custom, as they're the only mid size SWB Euro that will take 4x8 sheets in the back. I do worry that a big van might get tiresome since I do all city driving.
Hiace offers a lot of space considering it's small exterior dimensions, is easy to park and is reliable, but that's about all it has to offer. It's noisy, cramped, expensive and the engine tech is ancient. Best selling van in Australia though. Engine located under the seat makes them a pain to work on (not that any van is really great), and makes the cabin hot in summer (insulation can only do so much). They drive like something 20 years old. I used to like cab-over vans, but I'm over their advantages.
I've now driven just about every van (small, medium and large) sold here and my 5cyl VW T5 is easily the best (gearbox could be better though), the new 2.0's aren't as good. Part of me still wants to fix it and keep it.