Mileage adds up for used van buyers seeking bargains

Forget full service history, unmarked paintwork along with pristine interior condition, and a blue-chip company name in the V5 – the majority of retail customers continue to focus on mileage when selecting used light commercial vehicles, according to George Alexander, Editor of Glass’s Guide to Commercial Vehicle Values. Where condition is good, yet mileage is high, it is causing real problems for vendors. Being unlikely to command a good resale price, these vehicles fall into the distress-selling category. Alexander comments, “Many would argue that the overall condition of a van or truck is more relevant to its intrinsic worth than distance covered. However, what the odometer reveals about a commercial vehicle’s past life is an undeniably crucial factor in the sales equation. “Currently, popular vans that have travelled less than 40,000 miles are good news, whilst between 50,000 and 75,000 there is every chance of a profitable sale for nice clean stock. Retail business is still attainable on the best older vans up to 100,000 miles, but above this point, customer resistance sets in. “When the odometer reading is well in excess of 100,000, only the best examples of premium-brand panel vans will provide the trade with a reasonable profit. Consequently, most dealers no longer consider the hassle factor that accompanies high mileage to be worth the risk.” Alexander concludes, “As rental and fleet vendors are the source of most late-year light LCVs, and with more lease contracts being extended in response to customers’ reluctance to buy new, an increasing proportion of 3.5-tonne vans could become un-retailable.”

Citroën’s popular Berlingo First 1.6HDi 75hp 600kg panel van enters 2010 with a significant specification boost. This already well equipped van is now fitted with a ‘Plus Pack’ as standard. This adds high-frequency remote control central locking, electric front windows and electrically adjustable/heated door mirrors to the Berlingo First specification. In addition, for 2010, the Berlingo First van also gains a near-side sliding side load door as part of its standard equipment.
Charles Peugeot, head of commercial vehicles and business sector sales, comments, “The well-proven Berlingo First continues to be a popular budget choice for van buyers. The latest Berlingo First specification upgrade will further enhance the appeal of this evergreen model.” Effective 1st January 2010, the newly enhanced Berlingo First has an MRB price of £11,335. To this you must add VAT, delivery to dealer, plates, Government First Registration Fee and Vehicle Excise Duty.