THE TITLE OF Irish Van of the Year 2017 has been awarded to not one but three vans; the Citroën Dispatch, Peugeot Expert and Toyota ProAce. The award is voted upon by a jury of experienced van journalists.

All three are part of a joint venture that sees the car makers producing their own versions built from the same core architecture. Each version is differentiated by unique front-end styling that follows the designs of each company’s other models.

All three brands introduced their models late last year, and each comes in a variety of body styles.

For those looking to transport something other than materials, there are also passenger-spec versions available, with seating for up to nine people.

Des Cannon, Managing Director at Gowan Distributors Limited, Peugeot Importers in Ireland said:

We are thrilled with the Irish Van of the Year award. The new Expert is not only a tremendously good-looking van, it is very keenly priced.

Chris Graham, Citroën and DS Ireland’s Managing Director, said:

We are delighted Citroën Dispatch has been voted Irish Van of the Year. In a very competitive market to achieve such an award is an incredible recognition.

Picture: Finbarr O'Rourke Picture: Finbarr O'Rourke

In a separate category, the Nissan Navara picked up the award for Irish Pick Up of the Year 2017. This new model was introduced in 2016 and features numerous improvements over its predecessor, particularly in relation to ride comfort.

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