F ord has seen the Transit's share of the market slip
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in the past year, but with nigh-on 40% it still has a vice-like grip on the market. This loss has almost certainly been due to improved competition because the Transit is still a very good van with competitive pricing and our recent experience suggests that the warranty should not be taken at face value-ask your dealer what's on offer.
The new Sevels are infinitely better than their predecessors. Build quality is a great improvement, but then it had to be. Driveability is among the best. Pricing is particularly keen too and close attention has been paid to warranty packages. Mercedes' Sprinter may not appear to be as bomb-proof as its Ti 'predecessor but it is much more user-friendly. Merc is also more price conscious. The Sprinter certainly isn't cheap but great attention has been paid to such things as parts prices and equipment levels. Our high-budget choice would be the Sprinter which is such an accomplished all-rounder. On a tighter budget we'd be tempted by the Sevel, particularly the Relay with its turbo-diesel engine which is smoother than the Fiat's.
It may not be as accomplished as the Sprinter but offers good value in a vehicle which is easy to load and drive.