Volkswagen has taken the wraps off its sixth generation Transporter van and Caravelle people carrier. Celebrating 65 years since the launch of the original ‘Bulli’ van, and sales in excess of 12 million over that time, VW’s T6 Transporter adopts sharper bonnet, wing and headlight lines, with a revised grille, lower air intakes in the front bumper and the option of LED lights.
The interior is also improved, with new dashboard designs and infotainment systems. Upgraded upholstery, new steering wheels and controls from VW’s car range bring the interior up to date.
More importantly, under the bonnet the van comes with four revised diesel engines, delivering 84PS, 102PS, 150PS and 204PS. The two lower powered models come with five-speed manual gearboxes while the more powerful motors have a choice of six-speed manual of seven-speed DSG automated boxes. The 150PS and 204PS models can also be ordered with 4Motion all-wheel drive.
In the Caravelle all four engines will be sold in Euro-6 form straight away. However for the Transporter van, only the 102PS engine will be offered in Euro-6 trim in the UK, until September 2016 when all will adopt the latest emissions standard. The Euro-6 option is expected to cost around £1,000, as with the larger Crafter model.
That said, with VW’s Blue Motion Technology (BMT) package of Stop/Start, regenerative braking and intelligent charging now standard on all models, VW is promising up to a 15% fuel saving for both Euro-5 and Euro-6 models, despite the additional power outputs.
The Euro-6 vans also benefit from a host of electronic driver assistance systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control, City Emergency Braking, Automatic Post-Collision Braking and Light Assist automatic main beam functions.
Four trim levels, from Startline to Sportline, will be offered. Pricing and exact specifications will be announced nearer the UK on sale date of September/October this year.
