Sponsored by Volkswagen New Zealand
Born from the legendary Kombi T1, the VW Transporter has been designed to meet the needs of multiple trades and businesses. With flexible cargo space and an extensive suite of driver assistance features, this ever-popular van ensures you can transport goods both efficiently and safely.
In today’s demanding business environment, having the right tools at your disposal is essential, which is why the Volkswagen Transporter should be such an integral part of your toolkit. Not only is it incredibly versatile, efficient and tough enough to handle whatever you throw at it, but it’s also available with a limited-time offer that can save you up to $10,000*.
The Transporter comes in three variants, Runner SWB (short wheelbase), Trendline SWB, and Trendline LWB (long wheelbase). With load compartment lengths of up to 2.72m (LWB), so you have the flexibility to choose the right size for your business requirements.
Added to this, the load volume reaches up to 6.7 cubic metres, or up to three euro pallets, in the LWB model, which is perfect for transporting everything from tools to supplies. It doesn’t stop there – its impressive payload capabilities of up to 1035kg ensures you can handle even the heaviest of loads with utmost confidence, too.
Regardless of the model you opt for, the VW Transporter is powered by a robust 2L, 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine (110kW/340Nm), mated to a 7-speed DSG transmission, delivering reliable performance that aligns perfectly with the demands of any trade. It also boasts a towing capacity of 2.5-tonnes, meaning you won’t need to leave anything behind either.
Just as health and safety on the job is paramount, the same goes for the Transporter. Its key safety features include Forward Collision Warning, which alerts you to impending hazards and City Emergency Braking that helps prevent collisions in urban settings. Its Cross Wind Assist ensures vehicle stability in windy conditions.
For those who work in confined spaces, the Transporter’s Park Distance Control and great visibility makes it easy to park, plus with a tight 11.9m turning circle (SWB), it’s easy to swing a U-Turn, should you lose your way.
The cabin is both functional and comfortable, with numerous storage spaces, easy wipe surfaces and well-padded cloth seats. The cleverly designed top of the dashboard offers convenient areas for the likes of paperwork or tablets, with a 12v charger included, and there are plenty of air vents to keep both the pilot and co-pilot warm or cool with numerous cup-holders to keep occupants hydrated too. The door bins are large, and ideal for loose items since the Transporter has sacrificed a centre console for increased occupant space and cabin access to the rear cargo area, should you require.
The steering wheel is leather finished, offering more upmarket appeal, and comes with push button control for infotainment, the ‘personalisable’ digital TFT screen in the instrument cluster and the Transporter’s cruise control functionality. And for those that like to stay connected, its 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system offers entertainment and navigation at your fingertips, with App-Connect that interacts seamlessly with your devices.
On the road, the Transporter drives like a Volkswagen should. Even without a load on-board, it’s confident at both lower city speeds and on the highway. The steering is well-weighted, and the suspension is firm but not jarringly so, not too brittle or stiff when negotiating speed bumps and potholes around town.
The powertrain itself offers more than enough low-down torque (1250 - 3100 rpm max) and never feels stretched when pushing up to the national speed limit. Take offs at junctions are brisk, while the cornering remains flat, and all with front-wheel-drive predictability. It’s frugal too, thanks in part to its start/stop system with regenerative braking. VW claims a combined figure of 7.4L/100km and CO2 gases in the region of 195g. I personally managed 9.6L with mainly city driving – my accountant would be very pleased.
Where the Transporter truly excels though, is in cargo-space accessibility. Not only does it offer three-door, three-side entry, but the gapingly wide rear door and low step makes loading and unloading really simple. Especially good for those back-breaking heavy items.
Whether you run a small business or manage a large fleet, the Volkswagen Transporter is the perfect addition to your toolkit. Its combination of functionality, comfort, and advanced features makes it a standout choice for business owners who require a dependable vehicle that works as hard as they do. Plus, VW’s 5-Year Warranty offers peace of mind as you drive your business forward.
For more details on the Volkswagen Transporter and to schedule your test drive, visit Volkswagen New Zealand volkswagen.co.nz/en/new-cars/transporter.html.