For larger families, shuttle services, or sightseeing tours, there is hardly a better vehicle for the job than a passenger van. What these vehicles lack in style and performance, they make up for with sheer versatility. These vehicles generally share designs with their cargo van siblings, but instead of a wide open space at the back, there is ample seating. While there aren’t many passenger vans for sale in the USA for the 2026 model year, the selection includes everything from a V8-powered dinosaur to a more economical diesel from Mercedes-Benz. Let’s take a closer look at the best passenger vans of 2026.Vehicles are assigned a BuzzScore in relation to their direct segment competitors, and as such, vehicles in this list, while similarly scored, do not necessarily compete directly against one another. Find out more about how the BuzzScore ratings work here. These lists are continuously updated with the latest BuzzScores and vehicles as they become available.This list only contains passenger vans with a high seating capacity; minivans are covered in a separate list. Ford Transit There are many new passenger vans on sale these days. Even though competition in this segment is slim, that doesn't stop the Ford Transit from being the best. Since it's built for moving people around, the Transit is more than just chairs on wheels; Ford made it as comfortable as possible for the driver and everybody else. It's modern infotainment system, safety and security features earn this full-size passenger van a 7.6 out of 10 on the BuzzScore scale. There are two powertrains available, including the basic 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6 seen in the chart above, and a 3.5L EcoBoost with more power. It's not all about the engines, though. The real reason for buying this model is its interior. Ford offers three roof heights and two lengths for the Transit, which allows for up to fifteen people to fit inside at once. Choosing the XLT trim (the second of two trims) means you get a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apply CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. For those who need a huge people-mover with a modern interior, the Transit starts at $58,680 before destination and options. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a luxury passenger van that most people know as the platform for many camping rigs. While its cargo van counterpart can be used for conversions, its passenger van variant is the best for transporting people comfortably and safely. Keeping in mind that this model doesn't drive like a large Mercedes-Benz SUV, it can be an excellent alternative for those who want diesel engine reliability and a touch of class.This is a popular choice among those who prefer a more upscale interior. Its 10.25-inch MBUX infotainment system isn't as large or modern as the Ford Transit's infotainment, but it's user-friendly and works fine. Under the hood is a standard 2.0-liter diesel engine that can be connected to just the rear wheels or all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Sprinter starts at $56,930, which is lower than the Ford Transit, but can be optioned with blind-spot assist, attention assist, a 360-degree camera, and active lane-keeping assist. GMC Savana The GMC Savana isn't just one of the oldest passenger vans still on sale, it's one of the oldest cars still available period. This large passenger van hasn't had an update to its infotainment, powertrain, or styling since its last facelift for the 2003 model year. It's the definition of "if it's not broken, don't fix it." The Savana simply works. Sure, it's not as modern or luxurious as the two models we talked about above, but it's reliable, and it gets the job done.We won't get into this model's interior tech and comfort features as much, since there simply aren't many to talk about. It still uses an old-school AM/FM stereo with knobs for the climate controls directly above it. Driving the rear wheels is either a standard 4.3L V8 or an optional 6.6L V8 that makes 401 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque. One of the main reasons why one should choose this model over the first two on this list is that it can still carry up to fifteen people, but it does it for a minimum of $47,950. A rearview camera built into the rearview mirror is available. Chevrolet Express As far as family passenger vans go, the Chevrolet Express has the same story as the GMC Savana. They both ride on the same chassis and have the same engine options. Also, like the GMC, this Chevrolet hasn't had an update to its interior or exterior in twenty-three years. Styling aside, it's still riding on the same chassis as it was originally designed for its release in 1996. This Chevy is essentially the same van as its GMC counterpart. They have strikingly similar (and old) interiors, and the exteriors are nothing to write home about. Under the hood is the same standard 4.3-liter V8, unless you're willing to pay an extra couple grand for the 6.6-liter V8. The larger engine is available on both the 2500 and 3500 platforms, and can tow more, if needed. The Express can seat either twelve or fifteen people at once. The Chevrolet Express even costs the same as the Savana at $47,950 before destination, options, taxes, and other fees. Characteristics Of Passenger Vans Shoppers have very specific expectations when it comes to buying new passenger vans, and automakers try their best to meet these. This isn’t too hard since they are designed with a focused purpose, so most share a number of qualities: Size: While not all passenger vans are large, the majority can easily transport a decent number of people. But expansive dimensions have their disadvantages, and it’s difficult to make such a ponderous vehicle look attractive. Similarly, they aren’t the easiest vehicles to maneuver around town. Power: Naturally, the larger a car is, the more power it needs to get moving. For this reason, the top passenger vans come equipped with a decent powertrain to make them more manageable. The biggest vans often come equipped with V6 engines. Customization: Perhaps the greatest strength of the passenger van segment is its extremely high level of customization. These vehicles can be configured as 8-passenger, 12-passenger, or even 15-passenger vans. No other types of cars come with 12 seats or more. Beyond this, there is plenty of room in the cabin, even with maximum occupancy, and a fair amount of space for cargo, too. Price: You should expect to pay $45k or more for some of the more practical models. This cost is further compounded by the fact that these cars are not particularly fuel-efficient. When fully laden with passengers, they seldom get more than 20 miles to the gallon. Chevy Express Passenger VanWhat To Consider When Buying New Passenger Vans Since they are so specialized, passenger vans may not be for every shopper, but carefully weighing the pros and cons can help you determine if one of these enormous people haulers might be the perfect car for your growing family. Of course, if you’re starting a shuttle business, it will be more a matter of comparing the various types of vans. Pros Versatile as private or business cars Extremely spacious and practical interiors Highly customizable inside and out Strong engine choices Cons Such large vehicles can be difficult to drive, especially around town Poor gas mileage The interiors are usually quite plain and lack features There isn’t much variety in terms of brands and models What’s the best passenger van to buy? Among the top-rated large new passenger vans on the market is the Ford Transit. What's the difference between a minivan and a passenger van? Minivans typically seat up to eight occupants and are smaller than passenger vans. Minivans are also much less utilitarian, so are suitable for families with their better comfort and safety features.Sources: GMC, Chevrolet, Ford, Mercedes-Benz
