New VW Transporter goes on sale in South Africa – Pricing and specifications

VW has officially launched the new Transporter in South Africa.

The seventh-generation people carrier is now available in four short-wheelbase configurations with eight seats, and prices start at R1,055,200.

Features

The new Transporter Kombi comes standard with automatic LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry and start, a multifunction steering wheel, automatic climate control, a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 13-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

It also has a new electronic park brake with an Auto Hold function, which has been moved to the dash panel to free up space in the footwell for improved through-cabin access to the rear.

Similarly, the gearstick on the automatic models has been replaced by a stalk on the steering column, freeing up space for two cupholders.

The new Volkswagen measures 5,050mm in length – 146mm than the old version – with a wheelbase that has been extended by 97mm to 3,100mm.

On the commercial versions (which have yet to be priced), the back is large enough to accommodate up to three Euro pallets, and the load capacity clocks in at 2.8 tonnes.

Engine

The new range is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel (TDI) engine, though the output varies depending on the model.

The Kombi produces 81kW, 110kW, or 125kW, which connects to the driveshaft via an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The range-topping Style derivative is the only version to feature the brand’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, as the other three units are front-wheel-drive only.

Pricing

The South African pricing for the new VW Transporter is as follows:

• VW Transporter Kombi 2.0 TDI 125kW 4×2 Commerce Auto SWB (8-seater) – R1,055,200
• VW Transporter Kombi 2.0 TDI 125kW 4×2 Life Auto SWB (8-seater) – R1,116,845
• VW Transporter Kombi 2.0 TDI 125kW 4×2 Edition Auto SWB (8-seater) – R1,167,400
• VW Transporter Kombi 2.0 TDI 125kW 4Motion Style Auto SWB (8-seater) – R1,301,400

This includes a 3-year/120,000km warranty and a 5-year/60,000km maintenance plan.