Inside Story Of The Volkswagen Transporter
Inside Story Of The Volkswagen Transporter
Remarkably more than 10 million Volkswagen Transporters have been produced since the model was first launched in 1950 and more than a million T5 models have been made since it was launched in 2003, making it one of the best-selling and most popular vans in the world. The outside is the same as before, but inside there are major changes with a high-quality cabin that feels very much like one of Volkswagen's cars. It's certainly not what you'd conventionally expect in a commercial vehicle. Refinement is another big strength and thanks to a new 2.0 TDI common rail diesel engine it's quiet yet receptive on the move, even with a full load on board.
The Transporter is also a very flexible van and is available as a panel van with short or long wheelbases and low, medium and high roof heights. There is also the option of the new kombi, which can accommodate up to six people, plus two other people carriers. There are also chassis or double cab versions. It also boasts a new exterior with more aerodynamic door mirrors and a similar front grille and headlight design which is seen on the latest Volkswagen passenger cars. Under the hood is a new range of four 2.0-litre four-cylinder TDI engines, with power outputs of 84bhp and 220Nm of torque, 102bhp with 250Nm, 140bhp with 340Nm and 180bhp with 400Nm from just 1,500 rpm.
These engines are quieter, more frugal, and more efficient with lower emissions that now fulfill with the latest Euro V standards. The new Transporter also has a gear shift recommendation display which further increases fuel economy. The new Transporter has internal changes which make it even more relaxed and handy with many enhancements to quality and equipment. These features have been taken from the latest Volkswagen passenger cars, such as stylish new instruments, the latest audio and touch screen navigation systems and a three-spoke steering wheel. There are new options available for Transporter, and many for the first time in this sector.
This include Volkswagen's seven-speed DSG gearbox, which will also be available with the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. There is also the class-leading Volkswagen's Side Assist lane change assistant, which uses LED lights in the door mirrors to warn if there is anything in the vehicle's blind-spot. The Transporter comes with Rear Assist reversing camera, and a new TMD (Tyre Monitor Display) which detects any decrease in tyre pressure. It has other new safety features such as ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme), hill-start assistant and an emergency braking system which turns on the hazard warning lights automatically. All these features are standard across the range.
