Volkswagen has unveiled the sixth generation of its successful Transporter model (descended from the original 1950s ‘Type 2’ Transporter van and its much-loved passenger carrying Kombi and Microbus siblings) featuring better safety, improved comfort and convenience along with greater driving dynamics and improved fuel economy.
The T-series has been the number one light commercial vehicle in Germany for decades, VW claimed. Its predecessor sold about 2m units worldwide during 11 years of production.
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Since the launch of the original Transporter line in 1950, around 12m vehicles have been produced.
Although the Transporter went on sale in Germany and the rest of Europe 65 years ago, right-hand drive versions were available only to special order until 1954 when they became standard production line models. Over the decades, the model was assembled in numerous overseas factories as well as at ‘home’ in Germany.
The latest model line has a sharper appearance with lines and edges running continuously from the front to the rear of the vehicle and the entire body now has the appearance of being milled from a solid block of metal.
As with the previous generation, the new Transporter is offered in different forms: commercial vehicle, Caravelle, Kombi and Shuttle. A new generation of TDI diesel engines are being launched for Europe’s EU6 emission rules-compliant markets; these were developed specifically for commercial vehicles.
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By GlobalDataThe TDIs on offer are transversely mounted and angled forwards by eight degrees. The two-litre has outputs ranging from 84PS to 204PS.
Petrol options are I4, two litre with 150PS or 204PS. All engines have a stop/start system as standard.
A new adaptive chassis control, Dynamic Cruise Control (DCC), enables the new Transporter to be adapted to three driving modes: comfort, normal and sport. In each case, the electrically adjustable shock absorbers adapt to the chosen style via a preselected programme.
The variable seating layout makes the back passenger area a playground in terms of seating configuration options. Opening and closing the tailgate is now especially easy; aside from a purely manual operation, the Transporter offers an optional automatic closing aid.
Safety features include a ‘front assist’ area monitoring system which recognises critical distances to the vehicle in front and helps to shorten the stopping distance. Adaptive radar cruise controls the distance to the vehicle in front and the relative speed plus, in combination with the DSG twin clutch automatic transmission (also optional), can also slow the vehicle down.
Electronic voice enhancement is another option. This helps the driver to communicate with rear passengers while keeping their eyes focused on the road ahead. Without any turn of the head, the driver’s voice can be automatically amplified and relayed to the passengers over the Transporter’s infotainment system speakers.
On vehicles with 4MOTION, Hill Descent Assist is optional.
