Ford has continued its run of award-winning form by picking up the Auto Express ‘Van of the Year’ award for its brand-new Transit, the first examples of which have gone on the road in the last few weeks.

It’s the second consecutive win in this prestigious category for Ford — last year, the firm’s Transit Custom model won, in its introductory year. Commenting on this year’s award, Steve Fowler, Auto Express editor-in-chief, said:

“Ford really has thrown absolutely everything at it and come up with one of the best vans we’ve ever seen. The numbers stack up so well for businesses, while it’s easier than ever to load and more enjoyable to drive.”

Ford’s Fiesta also picked up the ‘Best Supermini’ award, while the Ford Ranger managed a commendation in the pick-up class. However, the class winner in the pick-up class, which these days straddles the commercial vehicle and car markets, was the

The new Volkswagen Amarok Canyon limited edition

Volkswagen Amarok, which bagged the ‘Best Pick-Up’ award for the third consecutive year.

Commenting on the award, Steve Fowler said:

“The Amarok remains the best pick-up by some margin. Nothing comes close to its brilliant combination of carrying ability and car-like road manners, with the efficiency expected by demanding buyers. The fact it has the rugged looks required of a class-leading pick-up is the icing on the cake.”

As we’ve seen in the van sector, where engine sizes are coming down, pick-ups are also managing with smaller engines than in the past.

The Amarok uses a 2.0-litre diesel engine in all models, but the twin-turbo configuration means it still delivers a whopping 180PS of power and 400Nm of torque, giving it a healthy 3t towing capacty and 1.1t payload.