Volkswagen Transporter review

Buying a Volkswagen Transporter

Practicality, load space, performance… there are several good reasons why the Volkswagen Transporter has won awards for its abilities. Whether you’re a fleet manager or a private owner, this mid-sized commercial vehicle has a range of attributes that make it appealing. Read our full Volkswagen Transporter review below to discover more.

Design

A stylish van, the Transporter in its latest guise (T6) looks akin the marque’s popular Golf from the front, with geometric headlamps, a wide grille inset with the VW badge, and an elegantly curved bonnet. Move further back and its profile is tall and sleek with a high shoulder line, robust wheel arches and a raked windscreen that provides great visibility.

Inside, the similarity to the van’s hatchback cousin continues. Although functional, the cabin is car-like, with supportive seats and an intuitive, uncluttered centre console which offers instant access to the various functions via buttons, dials and a touchscreen. There are also some handy storage compartments dotted around for paperwork, coffee cups and the like too.

Load space

Available in two wheelbases, three roof heights, and two seating layouts, it’s possible to find a used Volkswagen Transporter to accommodate almost any requirements. Load volumes span from 5.8 to 9.3 cubic metres and a maximum payload of 1,217kg ensures even the bulkiest items can be carried with ease.

Performance

Equipped with Euro 6 engines, the Transporter offers a refined driving experience and plenty of punch both around town and on the open road. The 2.0-litre 102bhp engine with five-speed manual transmission is a popular choice among new buyers and reaches 62mph in 15.3 seconds, with a top speed of 98mph. Other outputs of the 2.0-litre unit include 84bhp and 150bhp. If speed and power are important, the range-topping variant produces 204bhp and sprints from 0-62mph in only 8.6 seconds.

The front-wheel drive setup gives the used VW Transporter an assured drive, with responsive steering and plenty of grip. Choosing the 4Motion all-wheel drive variant further improves traction, which is handy if you’re out and about in inclement conditions.

All the T6 models benefit from BlueMotion Technology and feature Start/Stop, which saves fuel when you’re idling, regenerative braking, and low rolling resistance tyres. As such, fuel economy is respectable – up to 47.9mpg – and emissions are as low as 153g/km. The fuel tank has been reduced from 80 to 70 litres too, meaning a weight saving which contributes to the overall improvement in efficiency.

Reliability and safety

A comprehensive Volkswagen Transporter review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning safety features. The T6 really excels in this area, providing a host of features that are designed to keep cabin occupants, cargo and pedestrians well protected. The essentials are all there, from ESP and ABS to Hill Hold Assist for those challenging inclines. In addition, Automatic Post-Collision Braking helps to prevent secondary impacts following a collision, while Adaptive Cruise Control makes driving on the motorway effortless, ensuring the van stays a preset distance from the car in front when traffic gets heavier and things slow down.

Other active systems include Lane Change Assist and Drive Assist, while passive measures incorporate driver and passenger airbags. Volkswagen has a reputation for providing solidly built, reliable vehicles, meaning that choosing a used Transporter is a safe bet that won’t bring a host of mechanical issues with it.

Specs

There are several Volkswagen Transporter specs available to choose from, each offering a different level of technology and equipment. The entry-level trim is the Startline, which includes a decent array of standard kit to make things comfortable in the cabin. A multi-adjustable driver’s seat helps you to get into the perfect position, while a 5.0-inch touchscreen provides access to the DAB radio and Bluetooth functions. There’s a comprehensive level of safety technology too, including Brake Assist and Post Collision Braking.

Step up to the Trendline and a variety of features are added to improve comfort further and make driving effortless. Cruise control is fitted for long motorway journeys and there’s a driver comfort pack included that improves noise suppression and adds armrests and vanity mirrors. The Trendline also incorporates a full steel bulkhead and parking sensors.

At the top of the range is the Highline model, which gives you alloy wheels as well as convenience features such as cornering fog lamps, automatic headlamps, and a heated windscreen. Climate control is also installed to keep the edge off the heat off in summer. Finally, opting for the Sportline trim brings chunkier body kit and a range of external tweaks for a sleeker, modern look.

If you’re interested in purchasing a used VW Transporterfor your business, contact Vanwise Group today. We have a selection of used vans at our dealerships in Harlow, and can offer a range of contract hire options to make your purchase affordable.