Whether planning a cross-country road trip or starting a mobile business, choosing the right van for long-distance travel is a crucial decision to make or break your experience. So, what is the best van for long-distance driving?
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter consistently ranks as the best van for long-distance driving, offering best-in-class fuel efficiency of up to 25 MPG on highways and a range of up to 500 miles per tank, along with superior comfort and reliability ratings.
While the Sprinter may be the overall best choice, your specific needs might be better served by a different van depending on factors like budget, cargo requirements, and intended use. Keep reading to explore alternative options that could be a better fit for your particular situation.
What Are The Leading Alternative Vans For Long-Distance Travel?
Several other vans offer excellent long-distance driving capabilities for those seeking alternatives to the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The Ford Transit stands out with its comfortable ride, multiple size options (making it popular for van rentals for groups), and competitive fuel economy of up to 24 MPG highways. It’s also typically more affordable than the Sprinter, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
The Ram ProMaster is another strong contender, particularly appreciated for its wide body design and front-wheel-drive system, which provides better traction in various weather conditions. While discontinued in 2021, the Nissan NV series remains a popular option known for its durability and competitive pricing in the secondary market.
What Features Should You Look For In A Long-Distance Van?
When evaluating vans for long-distance travel, several key features deserve special attention. Fuel efficiency should be a top priority, as it directly impacts operating costs on long journeys. Additionally, tank size and range between fill-ups can significantly affect travel time and convenience.
Comfort features like adjustable seating, good visibility, and advanced climate control systems become crucial during extended drives. Modern safety features such as lane departure warnings, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control can help reduce driver fatigue and improve safety on long trips.
How Much Should You Expect To Pay For A Long-Distance Van?
New long-distance vans typically range from $38,000 to $50,000 for base models, with high-end configurations reaching up to $80,000 or more. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter starts at around $38,300, while the Ford Transit begins at approximately $35,925.
Used vans can offer significant savings, with prices typically ranging from $15,000 to $35,000 depending on age, mileage, and condition. When budgeting, it’s essential to consider the purchase price and long-term costs, such as fuel efficiency, maintenance requirements, and insurance rates, which can vary significantly between different van models.
What Kind Of Maintenance Schedule Should You Expect For A Long Distance Van?
Regular maintenance becomes especially critical when operating a van for long distances. Most manufacturers recommend oil changes every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, though this interval may need to be shortened with heavy use. Tire rotations should be performed every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear and optimal fuel efficiency.
Major service intervals typically occur at 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles, involving more comprehensive inspections and potential replacement of components like transmission fluid, brake fluid, and various filters. It’s worth noting that diesel engines, like those in many Sprinter vans, often have longer service intervals but higher costs per service compared to gasoline engines.
How Can You Maximize Fuel Efficiency When Driving Long Distance In A Van?
Fuel costs can quickly become one of the most significant expenses in long-distance van operation, but several strategies can help maximize efficiency. Maintaining a steady speed of around 65 mph typically provides the best balance between making good time and fuel economy.
Using cruise control on highways can help keep this consistent speed.
Proper tire inflation is crucial, as under-inflated tires can reduce fuel economy by up to 3%. Regular maintenance, including clean air filters and proper oil levels, can improve efficiency by up to 4%. Additionally, minimizing excess weight and reducing aerodynamic drag by removing unnecessary roof racks or cargo boxes when not in use can significantly impact fuel consumption, especially during long-distance travel.
Loading the van properly also affects fuel efficiency. Distributing weight evenly and avoiding overloading improves fuel economy, enhances safety, and reduces wear on the vehicle’s components. Planning routes to avoid heavy traffic and mountainous terrain can also help optimize fuel consumption.
Getting Ready For Long-Distance Travel
Now that you understand the key factors in choosing and operating a long-distance van, the best next step is to schedule test drives of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit to compare them firsthand. This direct comparison will help you evaluate the comfort, handling, and features that matter most for your specific needs while giving you a realistic sense of which vehicle you’ll be happiest driving for those long stretches on the road.
