Volkswagen has released final images and details of its new seventh-generation Transporter van ahead of its global debut at the IAA show in Hannover
next month.
Volkswagen promises that the new Transporter, initially available as a panel van, will offer more space, higher payload limits, greater towing capacity, and improved efficiency.
Updated Engines and Powertrain
Volkswagen is expanding its drive system lineup with the launch of the new Transporter. Alongside the latest turbo diesel engines (TDI) with power outputs of 110hp, 150hp, or 170hp, the new Transporter will offer both plug-in hybrid (eHybrid) and all-electric drive options.
The new eHybrid option will provide a combined power output of 232hp, while three electric drive options — with outputs of 136hp, 218hp, and 286hp — with a battery capacity of 64kWh, will soon be available. There will be a special electric version with reduced power and a smaller battery for urban delivery transport.
Front-wheel drive is standard for the TDI and eHybrid models, with the 4Motion all-wheel drive system available as an option on more powerful diesel vans. Electric models will feature rear-wheel drive, with an all-wheel drive version planned for the future.
While a six-speed manual gearbox is expected to be standard equipment across the diesel range, the 170hp TDI will receive an eight-speed automatic gearbox by default. Automatic gearboxes will be standard for all plug-in hybrid and electric models.
Improved Cargo and Payload
The new Transporter has grown a little and now measures 5,050mm in length—an increase of 146mm over the outgoing model. The wheelbase, at 3,100mm, is also longer, with a long wheelbase model adding a further 400mm. It’s also slightly wider, all of which means the cargo area has improved.
Cargo up to 2,602mm long can now fit in the back of the standard van, with the longer version increasing that to just over three metres. The gap between the wheel arches has been enlarged, making it easy to accommodate Euro pallets in the cargo box. The standard wheelbase version offers a stowage volume of 5.8m3, while the long wheelbase, high-roof version can hold up to 9.0m3.
Payload limits have been increased; the new Transporter can handle up to 1.33 tonnes. If more hauling power is needed, it can tow trailers up to 2.8 tonnes, depending on the variant, an improvement from the predecessor’s 2.5 tonnes.
Despite its increased size, the new Transporter, with a height under two metres for the standard roof model, fits into conventional multi-storey car parks. The standard wheelbase van also boasts a tight turning circle of just 11.8 metres, making it easy to manoeuvre in confined spaces.
Electric models will also benefit from two power sockets in the back of the cargo area. The 230-volt system produces a total output of 2,300 watts — ample power for a range of devices, from charging laptops to powering circular saws.
Overhauled High-Tech Interior
The interior of the new Volkswagen Transporter has been given a complete overhaul, with a digital cabin dominated by a 12.0-inch instrument cluster alongside a 13.0-inch infotainment display. Pleasingly, Volkswagen has left a physical rotary knob for controlling the system’s volume, along with steering wheel controls.
Space has been freed up in the cab, with the handbrake being replaced by a parking brake switch located in the centre of the dash panel. Versions with an automatic gearbox also benefit from a space-saving steering column-mounted drive selector, allowing better access through the passenger compartment. Large cup holders in the centre console, which have been moved forward, and additional cup holders and practical stowage compartments at the top of the dash panel make everyday work more manageable.
A selection of USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt power supplies ensures your devices remain connected and charged at all times, while a 230-volt plug socket is available as an option.
Volkswagen has expanded the standard equipment package for its new Transporter models: LED headlights, LED tail light clusters, an electronic parking brake with Auto Hold function, a 12.0-inch digital instrument display, an infotainment system (including DAB+, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, online services and 13.0-inch touchscreen), a multifunction steering wheel, Keyless Start system, rain sensor, Lane Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking and Dynamic Road Sign Display all come fitted as standard across the range.
New Volkswagen Transporter Price and Availability
First deliveries of the new Volkswagen Transporter, initially with a diesel engine, aren’t expected to arrive in the UK until early 2025. Hybrid and electric models will follow soon after.
Prices in Germany have been confirmed, with the range starting from €36,780. Although we’re still waiting for UK details, that works out at a little over £31,000.
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