By Peter Fitch, May 28, 2018
When you’re trying to find a vehicle that is easily accessible for wheelchairs, minibus conversions are often the best way to go. When it comes to large vans, the Mercedes Sprinter is one of the most popular models out there. It’s the only large van on the market that offers a 3.0-litre V6 engine and the most recent version now has front wheel drive. You’ve got a choice of 4 different sizes and body types. The larger wheelbase has plenty of space in the back for a wheelchair and a couple of other passengers and the front wheel drive means it doesn’t struggle with the weight when you’re full. The newer model has been fitted out with a lot of the tech that you find in Mercedes other cars. All of the drivers assist tech is available but you will have to pay extra for it and it can get pretty expensive if you’re having it all. It can also be a little over sensitive sometimes, but that’s not too much of a problem if you’re a sensible driver. The fuel efficiency on the new Sprinter is great as well. The new front wheel drive functions the consumption a lot better than the previous models so the running costs are fairly minimal. If you’re particularly worried about fuel efficiency and your carbon footprint you’ll be happy to know that Mercedes is coming out with a fully electric version in 2019.
VW Caddy
The Mercedes Sprinter is great but it’s a little on the big side for some people, especially if you’ve got limited parking at home. If that’s the case, you might be more suited to the VW Caddy. This great compact van still has enough room inside for a wheelchair user and 5 more passengers in the back. Depending on how much space you need, you’ve got the option of the normal wheelbase or the larger Maxi version; both have plenty of space for a wheelchair and passengers. The Caddy line has 3 different options for diesel engines, the 2.0 TDI comes in a 74 bhp, 101 bhp or 148 bhp version. The two more powerful engines come with the option of a dual-clutch automatic gearbox but the smallest one doesn’t. All of the engines that come with the Caddy meet European emissions standards so there are no worries about carbon footprint and it’s very economical. There are also some added extras you can pay for which increase aerodynamics so you’ll get more miles to the gallon out of it. The Caddy is a great compact option that still offers a lot of space in the back for wheelchair users, the only downside is that the front passenger seat isn’t that comfortable.
Fiat Doblo
The Fiat Doblo is the budget entry on this list; it’s cheap to buy but you aren’t making any sacrifices on quality. This great little van is the winner of 2 International Van of the Year awards so you know that it’s going to be good. Like the VW Caddy, your engine choices all adhere to the European emissions guidelines but they’re not quite as powerful. The basic 1.3 litre engine gives you 95 bhp or you can pay extra for a 2.0 litre that offers you 120 bhp. Not quite as powerful as the other vans on this list but still good enough. The Fiat Doblo comes out on top when it comes to space. It has more space than most other vans on the market with plenty of room for a wheelchair and a built-in hidden ramp. The basic model does pretty well on fuel consumption but if you really want to make savings, you should opt for the full EcoJet package. It has some great aerodynamics features and low resistance tyres.
If you’re looking for a spacious van that has easy wheelchair access, these are the 3 best ones on the market.
