Phil Huff

Phil Huff began his career in journalism in 2002, initially covering Formula One before testing and writing about the latest cars, vans and pick-ups for a wealth of national and regional publications. In addition to delivering car and van reviews, Phil also edits the popular Professional Van and Professional Pickup titles. Despite not being an architect, he drives a Saab convertible.

Follow Phil:

Articles by Phil Huff

Ford Ranger PHEV becomes first hybrid to win International Pick-up Award

Plug-in hybrid Ford Ranger picks up yet another big industry gong. And you can lease one right now.

By Phil Huff | 21-11-2025

Kia PV5 Wins 2026 International Van of the Year

Kia’s new PV5 electric van took home the coveted title and was praised for 'setting a new benchmark'.

By Phil Huff | 20-11-2025

Kia PV5 Chassis Cab arrives with electric flexibility

Kia reveals new PV5 Chassis Cab that brings strong payloads, flexible conversion options and two battery choices to the UK.

By Phil Huff | 20-11-2025

New Renault Trafic E-Tech Electric revealed in full

Renault has revealed the production-ready Trafic E-Tech Electric at the Solutrans show in Lyon.

By Phil Huff | 20-11-2025

Mitsubishi L200 pick-up - readying for a comeback?

Mitsubishi will relaunch in the UK in 2026, and the L200 pick-up is officially under consideration as part of its returning model line-up.

By Phil Huff | 20-11-2025

Volkswagen drops hybrid and electric Amarok plans

Volkswagen has halted development of hybrid and electric Amarok models, confirming the pick-up will remain diesel-only while Ford pushes ahead with...

By Phil Huff | 20-11-2025

Electric vans set to avoid EV pay-per-mile tax

The government’s upcoming pay-per-mile EV tax proposal won’t apply to electric vans, offering short-term relief for businesses.

By Phil Huff | 20-11-2025

Toyota Hilux goes electric as UK next-gen lineup revealed

Toyota has revealed the ninth-generation Hilux, including the first electric Hilux BEV, a new 2.8D 48V hybrid, and a hydrogen model due in 2028.

By Phil Huff | 20-11-2025

Reviews by Phil Huff

4/5 stars

Toyota Hilux BEV Review

Toyota’s first electric pick-up retains the Hilux’s trademark toughness but trades some load-carrying muscle for refinement and sustainability. It’s smooth, quiet and capable, and arguably the best Hilux yet. But its short 150-mile range and limited 715kg payload mean it’s best suited to fleets and users operating within fixed areas rather than long-haul drivers.

By Phil Huff | 24-11-2025

3.5/5 stars

Ford Transit Connect PHEV Review

Refined, efficient and easy to live with, the Ford Transit Connect PHEV blends useful electric range with real-world practicality. The payload isn’t the strongest and the infotainment lags behind rivals, but for operators not yet ready to go fully electric, it’s the sweet spot in Ford’s LCV range.

By Phil Huff | 04-11-2025

3.4/5 stars

Vauxhall Vivaro Panel Van (2025) Review

The Vivaro is a dependable medium van with a strong payload rating, decent road manners and good value for money, but it can’t compete with the best from Ford and Volkswagen. It’s not a bad option, and will serve any business well, but drivers will likely enjoy newer rivals more, and small companies might appreciate the longer warranty coverage offered by Volkswagen and Toyota.

By Phil Huff | 14-10-2025

4.7/5 stars

Kia PV5 Cargo (2025) Review

Refined, efficient and cleverly packaged, the Kia PV5 makes a bold debut in the compact electric van sector. Real-world range is close to its claim, ride comfort is good, and the tech offering is a step ahead of many rivals. Some minor niggles mean it isn’t flawless, but it’s the best compact electric van we’ve seen to date, at a price that undercuts its diesel-powered rivals. Unless you’re covering huge distances every day, it should be at the top of your shortlist.

By Phil Huff | 14-10-2025

4.2/5 stars

Toyota Land Cruiser Commercial Review

The Toyota Land Cruiser Commercial combines serious off-road ability with a durable, high-spec interior and Toyota’s peerless reliability record. It’s not as refined on the road as a Land Rover Defender Hard Top, and its payload is shy of a dedicated pickup’s, but for operators who need go-anywhere capability backed by a market-leading warranty, it’s one of the most compelling commercial 4x4s you can buy.

By Phil Huff | 30-09-2025

3.3/5 stars

Farizon SV Electric Van (2025) Review

A new name in the UK van market, the Farizon SV arrives with big promises. Built on a dedicated EV platform, backed by automotive giant Geely, and brimming with tech, it wants to disrupt the electric van sector. But does this “Super Van” live up to the billing?

By Phil Huff | 25-09-2025

4.4/5 stars

Ford Transit Custom Van (2025) Review

The UK’s best-selling van regenerates for a second generation, with fresh looks, fresh tech, fresh power and the same old Transit Custom capabilities. Are the changes enough for the van to stay at the top of the medium-sized LCV class?

By Phil Huff | 12-09-2025

4.3/5 stars

Ford Ranger PHEV Wildtrak Review

Ford has introduced a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the Ranger as it drops the entry-level 2.0-litre diesel. With 26 miles of electric range and the ability to tow 3.5 tonnes and carry a tonne in the back, it’s a big step towards lower emissions without losing the Ranger’s capability. It won’t be the best choice for long-distance towers, but for mixed-use operators and urban fleets, it’s a compelling alternative that still feels every bit a Ranger.

By Phil Huff | 08-07-2025