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Elsewhere, the Vauxhall Corsavan retained pole position in the small van category where it once more held off the challenge of the Ford Fiesta van.
It will be interesting to see if both models can lower CO2 emissions still further to make them eligible for exemption from the London Congestion Charge, which Transport for London is set to drop to 75g/km.
The Fiat Doblo held onto the light van prize but was joined on the podium this time by the Vauxhall Combo - both vans share the same DNA and are built alongside each other at Fiat's plant in Turkey. A sophisticated bi-link independent suspension system enhances ride quality and handling, stop/start is widely available across both line-ups, and generous payload and load capacities of up to 1000kg and 4.2m3 respectively increase functionality.
Rock-solid build quality, fine engines and the option of VW's excellent DSG transmission meant the Caddy was once more Highly Commended.
The Iveco Daily kept hold of its large van award for the second year. With a wide model range on offer, which now extends to a choice of conversions, the Daily is robust enough to stand up to the most punishing of schedules. Powerful, flexible and smooth engines, a dependable gear change and remarkably good handling for a heavy van all contributed to its success.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter captured the 4x4 prize for its combination of off-road ability and civilised on-road behaviour. Key to its triumph was Mercedes' decision to fit it with 4ETS (Electronic Traction System), which is fully automatic and kicks in when one or more of the wheels starts to spin - directing more torque to those with grip.
The three-pointed star brand also won again in the safety category where it continues to lead the way; Vauxhall picked up the Green Award for its Ecoflex vans, which are available with all models; and the Innovation Award went to Emerald Automotive for the development of its lightweight, range-extended electric vehicle prototype, which will be targeted at large fleets when it comes to market in 2014.
The Editor's Choice prize went to the eagerly anticipated Mini Clubvan, which will appeal to businesses keen to dress to impress as well as adding some rare glamour to the light commercial vehicle segment when it goes on sale early next year.
| What Van? Awards 2013 - the models that claimed the prizes | ||
| Category | Winner | Highly Commended |
| Van of the Year | Ford Transit Custom | - |
| Small van of the Year | Vauxhall Corsavan | Ford Fiesta van |
| Light van of the Year | Fiat Doblo Cargo and Vauxhall Combo | VW Caddy |
| Medium van of the Year | Ford Transit Custom | VW Transporter |
| Large van of the Year | Iveco Daily | Nissan NV400, Renault Master and Vauxhall Movano |
| Pick-up of the Year | Ford Ranger | Isuzu D-max |
| 4x4 van of the Year | Mercedes Sprinter 4x4 | VW Caddy 4Motion |
| Safety Award | Mercedes | Ford Ranger NCAP |
| Green Award | Vauxhall Ecoflex | DfT Electric Vehicle Subsidy |
| Innovation Award | Emerald Automotive | Ford Transit Custom |
| Editor's Choice Award | Mini Clubvan | Great Wall Steed |
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