International van of the year 2004, the Transporter can still give the Renault/Vauxhall model a run for its money. In a mid-year analysis of the market in 2006, the Transporter commanded 20% of the medium van sector, second to the Vivaro.

With the 2.5-litre, five-cylinder 174hp engine under the bonnet this is one of the most powerful vans on the market. Options from 84hp and 130hp are on offer. The Transporter in the UK is available with two wheelbase options and three roof heights offering load volumes up to 9.3m3. All-wheel-drive variants joined the line-up last year.

Volkswagen released details of the new top-of-the-range Transporter SPortline in the first quarter of 2006. This high-power special edition version is equipped with the 174hp engine, has sporty styling and all the bells and whistles on the inside. Definitely one for those looking for that little bit more.

From the outside changes to the new Daily appear to be limited to new headlights and grille, but in reality pretty much every element has been overhauled making it worthy of consideration, particularly for applications requiring a robust product.

A new dash and instrument panel, using superior plastics, gives it a fresh appearance. All dials and gauges can now be seen from the driver's seat in all positions while the fit and vinish is u pthere with the best in class.

This all-new vehicle has new styling, new engines, a vastly expanded line-up covering the weight range from 2.8-4.0t and is offered with a 17m3 loadspace option, up from 14m3.

There are three wheelbases, four overall lengths, three roof heights and seven interior volume options. The interior loading length is extended by 710mm to a maximum 4,100mm and the width between the wheelarches is 1,422mm.

Launched two years ago the new Maxus led the market for a while, only to be overtaken by new launches from competitors in the past 12 months. Now under new Russian ownership it appears strong enough to begin fighting for market share.

It's exceptionally good value. Load area is vast and it's equally at home on the motorway or on multi-drops in town. Chassis-cab variants will be welcome.