THE Vauxhall Astravan, which Fleet Van drives in its new format in this issue, seems to be the star of the show in the used market, according to experts at both CAP and Glass’s Guide.

Buyers are snapping up the old model as though it’s going out of fashion (which of course it is with a new version on sale). Rather surprisingly the old Escort van, which stopped production some years ago, is still proving a popular buy, while CAP is seeing the Citroën Berlingo and Ford Transit Connect at the top of buyers’ lists in the small sector.

In the panel van sector, strong demand outweighs supply in this sector, according to CAP. A spokesman said: ‘While rough, hard-worked vehicles are unwanted, those requiring some refurbishment have seen improving results due to the scarcity of ready-to-retail stock. Well-presented chassis-cab derivatives, lutons, tippers and dropsides all spark interest when offered.’

Citroën Dispatch, Peugeot Expert and Fiat Scudo see continued popularity, he said, as do Renault Trafic and Vauxhall Vivaro, although 100bhp six-speed versions fare best. Ford Transit range sells easily at first showing in most guises and sees a price rise for minibuses. Despite their scarcity, Mercedes-Benz Vito (03 onwards) and Transporter T5 have lost about 1% this month.

Over at Glass’s, a spokesman said of the panel van sector: ‘Confidence is high, with the feel-good factor encouraging the more entrepreneurial used van dealers to invest in and grow their businesses. To satisfy the appetite for late-year vans, the best used stock is quickly pounced upon.’

VW Transporter T5 and Mercedes-Benz Vito are proving the most popular models here, while 3.5-tonners are suffering due to the large numbers being offered.

The spokesman said: ‘Poorer used vans with high mileages are the first to come under downward price pressure, especially when powered by a non-turbodiesel engine.’