Used van buying guide

It’s no secret that Aussies have a strong affinity for vans. From tradies to small business owners to van-lifers, vans are a staple on our roads, and are the go-to choice for many looking for practicality and functionality. With a wide range of options available from a used Toyota Hiace to a used Hyundai iLoad, finding the used van that works for you can make all the difference in efficiency and convenience for your daily life.

Choosing a used van: what to consider

Vans are popular for a reason – they offer ample space, customizable interiors, and the ability to carry both passengers and cargo with ease. Whether you're running a delivery service, transporting equipment, or going on a road trip across the country, the right used van can provide the versatility and functionality you need.

Seating and cargo space

Vans typically come in different seating configurations, from compact models with seating for two to larger vans that can accommodate up to twelve passengers. Depending on what you’re looking for, cargo space is a key consideration, with many vans offering customizable interiors and options for shelving and storage solutions. When searching for used vans online, you’re most likely able to find many models custom built for purpose with extras installed such as shelving, additional power outlets, or roof racks.

Size options

Vans come in various sizes to suit different needs, including compact vans perfect for urban manoeuvrability, mid-size vans offering a balance of space and agility, and large vans designed for maximum capacity and towing capabilities. Keep in mind what you’re planning to use the van for and how much cargo you’re hauling. Larger vans will cost more to buy, and because of their size they could also cost more to run in terms of fuel economy and maintenance.

Fuel type

Just like considering any other used car, picking the fuel type you’re after on your used van is a key factor in your decision. Petrol vans are often preferred for their affordability both in terms of initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs. They are generally quieter and smoother in operation, making for a more comfortable driving experience for city driving and shorter trips.

Diesel vans on the other hand, are known for their torque and towing capabilities, making them suitable for heavy-duty tasks such as towing trailers or carrying heavier loads.

They tend to offer better fuel efficiency, especially on long highway journeys.

Towing capacity

Having the ability to tow can come in handy when you want additional cargo capacity occasionally but don’t need it all the time. Depending on the model, vans can have towing capacities ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 kg, allowing you to tow trailers, boats, or other equipment as needed. Need a guide on how to calculate your towing capacity? We’ve got you.

Safety features

Safety is a non-negotiable, luckily modern vans are safer than ever. You’ll find many used vans equipped with advanced safety features such as rear-view cameras, lane departure warning, automatic braking systems, and more. The ANCAP ratings of each van model is what you’ll need to look up while you’re doing your research, with 5-stars being the maximum rating a car can get for providing the best protection for drivers and passengers.

Why choose a used van for your next car

Vans aren’t just used for work anymore, there’s more and more travellers taking out fully decked-out vans to go across the country. The storage capabilities, reliability and the options available are just some of the best reasons to buy a used van. On the used van market today, there’s a wide range of makes, models, and features to choose from, giving you the flexibility to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Used vans are also often more affordable than new ones, allowing you to get the features and capabilities you need at a lower price point. You’ll also be able to get great value with used vans that have all the extras you need already installed.

At Carma, we’re handpicking top-quality used vans, fine-tuned to our high standards. Explore our range of used vans today or contact our friendly customer service team for help with finance options or trade-ins.