See all Motoring NewsVolkswagen Commercial Vehicles has unveiled its all-new Crafter van, the largest vehicle in its range. It retains a similar look and shape to its predecessor but features a more distinctive front-end that is in keeping with the latest Caddy and Transporter models. The team responsible for the new Crafter spent time with existing owners to gain a better understanding of their requirements. These results were then applied to the design process to make the Crafter more user-friendly.
The Crafter now has a sharper look, and this is most apparent at the front. New headlights that feature a distinctive daytime running light signature along with a three-bar chrome grille give the Crafter a more purposeful look. Creases in the bonnet further add to this image and these are continued up to the roof. Other noticeable touches include a distinctive line running from the top of the headlights along the side to the upper part of the rear lights.
Volkswagen will offer the Crafter in three different heights and three different lengths, giving buyers plenty of choice. Twin rear doors combined with a low loading height and a larger sliding side door add to the Crafter's practical side.
As we have already seen in the new Caddy and Transporter models, Volkswagen has improved upon the look and feel of the interior of the Crafter. Throughout the cabin are numerous storage areas for everything from mobile phones to document folders. The recessed dashboard allows for a cupholder and tray beside the steering wheel and in front of the twin passenger seat. The gear selector is mounted up high to improve driver ergonomics. A multifunction steering wheel and large easy-to-read instrument dials are aimed at making life easier for the driver.
Volkswagen has developed a new 2.0-litre TDI engine for the Crafter, and it will be available in four power outputs; 102, 122, and 140hp along with a bi-turbo TDI with 177hp. These engines will come with a variety of front-, rear- or all-wheel drive (4Motion) transmissions and these will also include the option of automatic or manual gearboxes.
The new Crafter will be the first vehicle in this class to come with electro-mechanical power steering. In addition to this Volkswagen will offer a suite of assistance systems including ESP with trailer stabilisation, Adaptive Cruise Control, post-collision braking system, side wind compensation system and a trailer manoeuvring assistant system. Other assistance systems on offer include parking distance monitor, reversing camera, Rear Traffic Alert, LED headlights, cornering lights and Light Assist.
Volkswagen will manufacture the Crafter at its new production facility in Wrzesnia, Poland. It is the brand's second production location in Poland, occupies an area of approximately 540 acres and will go on to employ more than 3,000 people.
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