MAN TGE Luton Review
MAN TGE Luton at a glance
Designed for dry freight or secure loads, the MAN TGE Luton has been on sale since 2017 and has rivalled the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit. The MAN TGE is hugely similar to the VW Crafter, it’s built in the same factory and uses the same range of body and drivetrain options. This is a good thing as both vehicles are excellent vans.
The MAN TGE Luton is ideal for delivering heavy cargo. It’s a solid van that suits high-capacity courier work. This solidly-constructed Luton van uses MAN’s best-in-class 2.0 litre diesel engine. If you’re a delivery driver that needs a powerful van, this vehicle does just that. This large courier van is well-suited to large companies as well as freelance drivers. The MAN TGE Luton comes with a range of excellent features that suits all drivers and ensures easy accessibility to its large storage area to make for quick deliveries and pick-ups.
Engine & Spec
As with the VW Crafter, the TGE is available with the same four versions of the 2.0 litre turbo diesel engine. It offers power outputs of 102hp, 122hp and 140hp for the single-turbo version plus even more for the twin turbo at 177hp. The torque provides between 300 and 410 Nm.
Originally, it was released as a front-wheel drive (FWD) only. However, over time MAN have released rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) versions to keep up with the growing market. As a standard, all van models come with a six-speed manual gearbox but for an extra cost you can opt for the eight-speed automatic transmission, which is considered very efficient.
The Gross Vehicle Weight of the MAN TGE Luton ranges up to 5.5 tonnes (5,500kg). However, if you are driving the van on a regular car licence, the maximum GVW you can drive is 3.5 tonnes (3,500kg). The maximum payload for a 3.5t MAN TGE is 1,333kg, which doesn’t quite match up to the 1,413kg payload of the Mercedes Sprinter FWD.
Interior
The driver’s cab of the MAN TGE is well-built, comfortable, practical and perfect for long driving days. It is able to compete with other vehicles that are known for their quality and functionality. Not only does it match the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter but it puts up a good fight against its German rivals.
It offers large and solid instruments, chunky stalk controls and infotainment set-up as well as plenty of storage space inside the cab. You’ll find large dash-top cubbies, plenty of big cupholders and overhead bins that are practical and out of the way. It provides a folding centre seat that forms a desktop as well as loads of power sources, meaning you can work inside the cab with ease. You’ll also enjoy the chance to add heated seats, steering wheel and windscreen to an already decked out van – keeping you warm in colder weather.
Standards include air conditioning, Bluetooth and hands-free, cruise control and remote locking, making this a drive you’ll really enjoy. The TGE’s touchscreen infotainment system is simple and easy to use. Although it doesn’t quite match the Sprinter for high-tech features.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Car-like and comfortable to drive
- Wide range of features
- MAN truck-grade servicing and back-up
Cons:
- Payload ratings not particularly high
- Fuel economy doesn’t match rivals
- Dash-top storage lacks cover
The Verdict
One of the best things about the MAN TGE Luton is how easy it is to drive, you’ll feel as though you’re driving a much smaller van. Along with its user-friendly cab design and the wide variety of advanced driver-assistance and safety systems, you’ll love getting up in the morning to hit the road.
For a brand new MAN TGE Luton van, you are looking at around £29,990 +VAT or £399 + VAT per month from Van Sales UK. This is much better value than the VW Crafter and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Which you choose depends on your budget as well as your location. MAN offers an excellent servicing package, so if you can reach one of their dealerships, it’s well worth the money.
However, it does fail to match its rivals for payload and doesn’t quite beat others on high-tech features. It also lags behind on fuel efficiency, so it’s something to bear in mind. Ultimately, the MAN TGE Luton is an excellent choice and still offers an excellent option for a large courier van.
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