Ford Transit Custom secures NZ Autocar’s inaugural Van of the Year title
The Ford Transit Custom has claimed the first-ever Van of the Year title in NZ Autocar’s 2024 Car of the Year awards.
The new Van category sits alongside others including EV, SUV, Performance, and Luxury, and while it does not progress to the overall Car of the Year crown, NZ Autocar Managing Editor Richard Edwards says its inclusion is long overdue.
“Vans are a huge part of the market and often clock up far more kilometres than many passenger cars. They deserve to be judged on their own terms,” he says.
Best of both worlds
The Transit Custom stood out for its combination of driving dynamics, smart design, and user-focused flexibility. “The Ford Transit Custom is a real step forward for vans,” Edwards says. “It offers a car-like driving experience but with a range of touches that make the life of trades and lifestyle users alike better.”
Buyers have the choice between diesel and fully electric versions, allowing fleets to mix and match without compromising the driver experience or cabin fit-out. “It’s a rare example of platform flexibility being executed properly. Whether you go electric or diesel, the experience is largely the same—and that’s key for businesses managing diverse fleets,” Edwards adds.
While many vans focus purely on cargo capacity, the Transit Custom has impressed with its handling and refinement. “At NZ Autocar, dynamics are important, and the Transit Custom does not disappoint, with surprisingly precise steering and crisp stability in corners,” says Edwards.
The Van of the Year win follows on the Transit Custom’s success on the global stage, where it also secured the 2024 International Van of the Year title. It’s a strong endorsement of Ford’s investment in the segment and a signal to rivals that van buyers are expecting more.
The Peugeot Expert was runner up to the award, being acknowledged as ‘Highly Recommended’
For the full list of category winners and a deeper dive into the judging process, visit NZ Autocar’s Car of the Year coverage.
