Since the launch of the first Transporter in 1950, the Volkswagen name has become synonymous with light commercial vehicles. Introducing the latest addition to the Volkswagen commercial range, the new Crafter. Building on the qualities of the legendary LT the new Crafter sets the benchmark for professionals who require a strong versatile partner to enhance their business. Not only is the new Crafter larger, but also been designed to be visually more striking than its predecessor. Strong lines, vertical clear glass headlights and robust side protection strips characterise the modern design, giving the Crafter a distinctive appearance. The Crafter is the product of a joint development between Volkswagen and DaimlerChrysler, so it shares much with the 2006 model Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.The key aim when designing the Crafter’s cab was to achieve the best combination of comfort, storage and practicality. Once inside, the crafter’s exterior dimensions translate directly into greater cabin space. The high roofline inside the cab means that taller drivers won't have to stoop to see out the windscreen. The steering wheel adjusts up and down and in and out, and the gearlever sprouts from the dash close to the steering wheel, for a clear footwell as well as ease of use.The reversing sensor display is built into the door mirrors where a series of coloured LEDs guides the driver back to within inches of any obstruction. Above the driver and passenger are two deep shelves and a central storage slot below the interior light. There are two dash top recesses with built in drinks holders and a central top hinged binnacle to hide valuables and still has room for a drop down glovebox. Door pockets are big enough for clipboards and atlases and one litre drinks bottles while a slide-out tray in the central dash provides a third cup holder for three-seater cabs.
The 2.5-litre five-cylinder TDI engine is offered in four different outputs of 89, 109, 136 and 163bhp. The ideal engine choice will depend upon the body specified and the loads carried of course, but the 109bhp offers the best combination of economy and performance for most requirements. The new engines use common rail technology for high torque and power throughout the rev range, combined with low fuel consumption. All models are rear-wheel drive with a number of different axle combinations depending upon the model. All are fitted as standard with a six-speed gearbox and a six-speed automatic is optional on the two mid-range engines. The Crafter is pleasing to drive; its suspension delivers a smooth ride with limited body roll.
With the driver well sorted up front, the payload has been equally well thought out, not only is the Crafter’s load space practical it also benefits from remote central locking on all models. In addition to short, medium and long body lengths, there is an extra-long body style while the standard and high roof options now have a super-high version too. This has resulted in four interior lengths of 2.6m, 3.2m, 4.3m and 4.7m. Using all the options will result in a huge van with an interior volume of up to 17 cubic metres! Volkswagen have tried to standardize the three core weight variants at 3.0t, 3.5t and 5 tonne GVW in vans and chassis cabs on three wheel base offerings at 3250mm, 3665mm and 4325mm. For the 5 tonne variants there is a choice of super-single rear axle configuration or the more traditional twin rear wheel style and customer use will determine which is best, super singles for volume or twin rears for bulk.
The Crafter is a serious bit of kit for serious van users. The van feels good straight out of the box and has a hugely practical load space with full size doors. It's powerful, handles well and is extremely comfortable to drive.
