Best £5000 van with off-road capability?

I'm a dry stone waller looking to replace my Ford Ranger pick-up with a smaller, more economical van. I need petrol as I don't do huge mileages day-to-day. I need three seats and the ability to occasionally carry a load say half a ton. However, I'd really need one that can sometimes cope with driving on grass or tracks, too. I have around up to £5000 to spend, what do you suggest I buy?

Asked on 5 August 2022 by E Yates

Answered by Dan Powell
I'd argue any front-wheel drive van with a good quality set of all-terrain tyres would cope with this type of use. Given your budget, the Ford Transit Connect would be my recommendation although petrol models are rare.

That said, if you do need something that's more capable for off-roading, I'd suggest the Peugeot Partner with Grip Control. They are difficult to find on the used market because they sell in low numbers when new. However, they are very good, adding underbody protection and utilising a clever traction control system that allows the front wheels to cope with mud, sand and slippery terrain.
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