- All new seventh-generation Volkswagen Transporter unveiled
- Expected to arrive in the UK in early 2025
- Electric and plug-in hybrid models to follow diesel variants
- UK prices yet to be announced
The new Volkswagen Transporter panel van, which will be unveiled at the IAA show in Hanover next month, promises to offer higher payload limits, larger cargo volumes, improved efficiency and a greater towing capacity.
And we know that, as Volkswagen has released images and specifications for the new model.
Diesel, Petrol Hybrid and Electric Power
Volkswagen is expanding the range of powertrains for its medium van model with the launch of the new Transporter. Alongside the latest turbo diesel engines (TDI) offering 110hp, 150hp, or 170hp, the Transporter will also be available as a plug-in hybrid (eHybrid) or an all-electric model.
The eHybrid Transporter has a combined power output of 232hp, while the all-electric models will be fitted with a 64kWh battery powering an electric motor offering outputs of 136hp, 218hp or 286hp, depending on the specific model. An electric version designed for urban deliveries will also be available, with a smaller battery and reduced power.
TDI and eHybrid models will see front-wheel-drive as standard, while the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system will be an option for more powerful diesel models. Electric models will have rear-wheel drive as standard, with plans for an all-wheel drive version in the pipeline.
The diesel range is expected to come with a six-speed manual gearbox, except the 170hp TDI, which will have an eight-speed automatic box fitted by default. All electric and plug-in hybrid models will have an automatic gearbox as standard.
More Practical Payload
The new Transporter has increased in size by 146mm over the previous model, now measuring 5,050mm in length. The wheelbase has increased, too, while a long wheelbase model gains a further 400mm. With a slight increase in width, there is also an increased cargo area.
The rear of the standard van will be able to hold goods up to 2,602mm in length, increasing to just over three metres in the long wheelbase version. Euro pallets will be easier to accommodate in the cargo box, with the space between the wheel arches having been enlarged. The standard van offers a stowage capacity of 5.8m3, while the largest van with a long wheelbase and a high roof can take up to 9.0m3.
The new Transporter will have higher payload limits of up to 1.33 tonnes and more pulling power. Depending on the model, it can tow trailers up to 2.8 tonnes in weight, up from the 2.5 tonnes available from its predecessor.
Although it might have increased in size, the new Transporter's standard model is under two metres tall, allowing it to access conventional multi-storey car parks without issue. With a turning circle of just 11.8 metres, the standard wheelbase van can also manoeuvre easily in confined spaces.
Overhauled Interior
Inside the van, Volkswagen has given the Transporter an all-new look. The 12.0-inch instrument cluster and 13.0-inch infotainment display dominate the cabin and are used to operate most systems within the van. There is still a physical rotary knob for adjusting the system’s volume, and steering wheel controls are fitted, too, so, happily, it isn’t all down to digging into system menus to make adjustments or selections.
The handbrake has been replaced by a switch in the centre of the dashboard, creating space in the cab. Versions fitted with an automatic gearbox now have a steering column-mounted drive selector, making things even more spacious.
Thanks to a selection of USB-A, USB-C, and 12-volt power supplies, you have plenty of options for keeping your devices charged. An optional 230-volt plug socket is also available.
Volkswagen has included more equipment as standard in the new Transporter, such as LED headlights and tail light clusters, electronic parking brake with Auto Hold function, Keyless Start system, and a multifunction steering wheel. A 12.0-inch digital instrument display and a 13.0-inch infotainment system, which includes DAB+, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and online services, are also standard across the range.
When will it arrive?
The new Volkswagen Transporters fitted with diesel engines are expected to arrive in the UK in early 2025, with electric and hybrid models following in their wheel-tracks soon after.
Prices for the UK market have yet to be confirmed, but the range will start from €36,780 in Germany, or around £31,000.
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