📈 Looking to choose the perfect medium van for your business in Merseyside? In this head-to-head comparison, we dive into what really counts—engine performance, load space, cab comfort, tech features, running costs, and more—to help you make the smart buy between the Ford Transit Custom and Vauxhall Vivaro.
🔧 Engine & Performance
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Transit Custom: Powered by Ford’s 2.0 L EcoBlue diesel, offering 105–170 PS, with mild-hybrid and PHEV options too. Torque can reach up to 405 Nm on top specs (Vanarama).
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Vivaro: Uses Stellantis’ 1.6 L diesel with 95–145 PS. Torque peaks around 340 Nm.
💡 Verdict: Transit wins on sheer power and torque—ideal for heavy loads and towing.
📦 Load Space & Payload
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Transit Custom: Offers a maximum payload of approx. 1,399 kg, up to 2.8 tonne towing, plus wider load width (1,775 mm).
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Vivaro: Slightly trims payload (~1,280 kg), 2 tonne towing, but edges ahead with load length (4,150 mm vs 3,452 mm) and more headroom (1,898 mm vs 1,778 mm).
💡 Verdict: Transit suits payload/towing priorities; Vivaro’s longer floor and tall roof help with bulky items or ladders.
🚘 Interior & Driving Comfort
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Vivaro: Sportive trim includes 7″ screen, Air Con, sat-nav, cruise, drowsiness alerts and fold-flat desk.
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Transit Custom: SYNC3 infotainment 8″, FordPass, cruise, parking sensors, heated screen—praised for cabin layout.
💡 Verdict: Both deliver driver-friendly tech; Transit edges ahead for ergonomics and connectivity.
🌍 Fuel Efficiency & Emissions
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EcoBlue Transit: Up to 46.3 mpg combined, ~157 g/km CO₂.
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Vivaro Diesel: Slightly better at 47 mpg and 155 g/km CO₂.
💡 Verdict: Fuel efficiency is neck-and-neck—Vivaro just nudges ahead.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
🏅 The Ford Transit Custom was crowned International Van of the Year 2024, highlighting its innovation and commercial appeal.
📊 Quick Comparison Breakdown
1. Payload Capacity
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Ford Transit Custom: Approx. 1,399 kg
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Vauxhall Vivaro: Approx. 1,280 kg
2. Towing Capacity
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Transit Custom: Up to 2.8 tonnes
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Vivaro: Up to 2.0 tonnes
3. Load Length
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Transit Custom: 3,452 mm
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Vivaro: 4,150 mm (longer)
4. Interior Headroom
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Transit Custom: 1,778 mm
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Vivaro: 1,898 mm (taller)
5. Engine Torque
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Transit Custom: Up to 405 Nm
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Vivaro: Up to 340 Nm
6. Fuel Economy & Emissions
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Transit Custom: 46.3 mpg, ~157 g/km CO₂
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Vivaro: 47 mpg, ~155 g/km CO₂
7. Cabin Tech & Features
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Transit Custom: 8″ SYNC3, FordPass, parking sensors, ergonomic layout
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Vivaro: 7″ screen, sat-nav, fold-flat office desk, cruise control
📝 Final Take
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Choose Transit Custom if you need higher payload, torque, towing, or want award-winning reliability.
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Go for Vivaro if you prioritise load length, headroom, or slightly better mpg.
👉 Ready to explore your options? Check out our current Ford Transit Custom vans for sale or learn more about financing your next van.