Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

Autocar.co.uk has praised the Amarok

2010-02-25T08:30:00.000Z

Autocar.co.uk has praised the Amarok in the first UK road test, posted online yesterday from the international launch in Argentina.

Tester Ed Keohane wrote "the Amarok combines excellent off-road abilities with solid, predictable car-like handling" and described the ride as "exceptionally good for a vehicle with a payload of 1150kg." In summary, he added: "Given VW's reputation for build quality and reliability it's safe to say that Toyota, Nissan and Mitsubishi should be concerned. "

Autocar.co.uk readers also praised the pickup on the site's forum. One wrote: "This VW should have been called the VW Runamok, cos that's what it's going to do amongst those lame Jap Crap 'lifestyle' pickups, lay waste to them."

The road test will be published in Autocar on 24 February.

Volkswagen Amarok 2.0 TDI - Road Test

2010-02-25T08:26:00.001Z

What is it?
The Volkswagen Amarok is VW's first pick-up and a direct competitor for the ubuquitous Toyota Hilux. Built on a platform at the Pacheco factory in Buenos Aires, it's destined for sale across South America, Austalia and New Zealand, as well as Europe.

The Amarok gets a classy, aggressive interpretation of the VW grille, a six-speed gearbox, low-range transfer box, permanent four-wheel drive, locking centre and rear differentials, the latest direct-injection, twin-turbo 2.0-litre diesel unit, tuned for 161bhp and 295lb ft, and traction/stability control.

What's it like?
The interior moves the class to the next level. Despite the low spec levels compared to VW's road cars, the build quality is exceptionally good, with tough but well-textured surfaces and an excellent driving position. Car drivers would notice the unusual height of the seats and driving position, but otherwise everything falls under the fingers in exactly the way that it would in, say, a Golf.

The test car, which was fitted to the top spec level, called Highline for the South American market, didn't have sat-nav, but it will be available on UK vehicles.

On the move, the Amarok combines excellent off-road abilities with solid, predictable car-like handling. The combination of a solid, leaf-spring rear axle, mechanical locks on the centre and rear diffs and traction control means that most extreme off-road situations require little more than pressing the accelerator and adjusting the wheel so that it goes in the correct direction.

Where VW's achievement is much more impressive is the on-road refinement. The Amarok does not ride over broken surfaces with the sophistication of the Freelander, but the ride is exceptionally good for a vehicle with a payload of 1150kg. The steering is well weighted, though devoid of much feel, but provides enough feedback on what's going on beneath the tyres to allow fluent, quick progress on the paved Patagonian highways and dirt tracks that made up the 170 mile test route.

Enthusiastic drivers will find that the stability control intervenes earlier than you'd expect in high-speed corners, but the Amarok is naturally stable with it switched off, exhibiting nothing more than a mild, controllable yaw in all but the most provocative manoeuvres.

The diesel engine, which at 2.0 litres is the smallest in its class, has plenty of torque across the rev range, with 295lb ft available from 1500rpm. Overtaking is not brisk and requires planning, but probably matches the performance of a 1.6-litre diesel family hatch.

The only noticeable problem of the downsized unit, compared with the larger unit in the 3.0-litre unit in a Hilux, is the slight lack of low-end torque as the turbo spins up. The lag is minimal â€“ one turbo is tuned for low-end response and another for top-end power â€“ but it can occasionally catch you out in low-grip situations.

The most positive consequence of the downsizing is, of course, the fuel consumption. VW quotes 36.2mpg, which equates to 206g/km of Co2.

Should I buy one?
If the proof of the pudding is in the eating, then the proof of a pick-up is in driving it for 100,000 miles over bumpy roads. That's obviously not possible within the confines of a one-day test, but given VW's reputation for build quality and reliability it's safe to say that Toyota, Nissan and Mitsubishi should be concerned.

READY TO TAKE TRANSPORTER ORDERS NOW

2009-12-10T10:07:00.001Z

The new Volkswagen Transporter range, with new styling, a range of quieter and more economical Euro5 common rail TDI engines and reduced running costs, sets new standards of quality and refinement in the LCV sector, and is now available to order ahead of its official launch at Volkswagen Van Centres in January 2010.

The Transporter, which celebrates 60 years of production next year, continues to offer a choice of panel vans and chassis cabs, plus shuttle and window van people movers with up to nine seats. The range is enhanced by a new kombi model with a folding and removable rear bench seat that can carry up to six people and a load in the rear. This configuration used to be available only as an option pack but due to its popularity has now become a model in its own right. This model achieves N1 classification and so is taxed as a commercial vehicle.

Four new 2.0-litre four-cylinder common rail TDI engines offer greater power and torque levels than the outgoing engines, and service intervals are extended by up to 7,000 miles to a maximum of 25,000 miles, reducing servicing costs.

Joining the aesthetic and mechanical changes are several important safety features which are now standard on all models. A new seatbelt warning reminds the driver to belt up and the passenger airbag can now be deactivated if the driver needs to carry a child seat. A new daytime running lights function improves the vehicle’s visibility on the road, while a new emergency feature flashes the brake lights under heavy braking and activates the hazard warning lights if the vehicle stops.

Volkswagen’s latest generation ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme), previously a £295 option, is also now standard offering greater stability in all driving conditions along with ARP (anti rollover protection), Ready Alert Brake and Rain Brake Support for faster braking, a trailer stabilisation function, and an all-new hill start assistant.

New optional safety features include a tyre monitoring system to alert the driver if there is a change in tyre pressure, plus ‘side assist’ which warns the driver if there are any vehicles in the blindspot. Additionally, to reduce the risk of accidents when turning or reversing, there is now an optional cornering light incorporated in the front fog light to illuminate the road in the direction in which the vehicle is turning, plus a reversing camera to display the area behind the van, with ‘virtual’ lines showing where it is going.

Among the new features standard on every Transporter is a gear change indicator on the new instrument panel to recommend the right gear for maximum economy. The radio/CD can be fitted with an aux-in adaptor, or upgraded to a system with an aux-in socket, or the latest colour, touchscreen satellite navigation system with 30 Gb hard drive to store mapping and music. Two other new options include the acclaimed seven-speed DSG transmission and the convenience of a multi-function leather steering wheel.

With modest price increases across the range of between three to five per cent, the new Transporter range now starts from £15,700 (excluding VAT).

Volkswagen Amarok.

2009-12-10T09:58:00.002Z

• Amarok sets new standards in 1-tonne pick-up class
• Payload capacity of up to 1.15 tonnes
• Maximum towing limit of 2.8 tonnes
• 2.52 m² load area has largest dimensions in its class
• Load area 1,555 mm long,1,620 mm wide
• 1,222 mm between wheelarches to take Euro pallet
• Rear-wheel drive, and switchable or permanent all-wheel drive
• On sale in UK in September 2010
• Double cab available from launch. Single cab to follow in 2011

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has released the first official images and more details of its new pick-up, the Amarok.

The Amarok, which will be available as a four-door double cab version from launch with a single cab model to follow in 2011, combines the robustness of a pick-up with innovative technology, high safety standards, excellent fuel economy and Volkswagen standards of comfort, quality and durability.

Production of the Amarok is about to start at the Volkswagen factory in Buenos Aires, Argentina ahead of its worldwide launch starting in its native South America in early 2010 and in Europe next summer, with first models expected to be in UK Volkswagen Van Centres in September 2010.

The Amarok has a generous payload capacity of up to 1.15 tonnes and maximum towing limit of 2.8 tonnes. Its 2.52 m² cargo area has the largest dimensions in its class at 1,555 mm long and 1,620 mm wide, plus a best in class width between the wheelarches of 1,222 mm, which means that for the first time on a mid-size pick-up, it is possible to load Euro pallets sideways, saving on space.

The official photos show the Amarok reflects the latest Volkswagen design DNA with frontal styling in line with the latest Transporter and Golf. It is 5.25 m long with a ladder frame chassis and will be offered with a choice of rear-wheel drive and switchable or permanent 4MOTION all-wheel drive.

For maximum convenience, the switchable all-wheel drive is engaged by the push of a button, and also has low off-road gearing.

The full-time all-wheel drive version is a rarity in the pick-up sector, and uses a Torsen differential to distribute drive at a 40:60 ratio to the front and rear axles for excellent vehicle dynamics and high traction, and also ensures that the wheel with the best traction always gets the most power. A rear differential lock is available.

Designed to tackle the toughest off-road terrain, the Amarok is offered with an electronic differential lock (EDL) and Off-Road ABS to significantly shorten braking distances in off-road conditions or gravel roads. At speeds of under 20 mph it also activates Hill Descent Assist to control hill descents by using selective braking interventions. Furthermore, the ESP Plus system includes Hill Hold Assist, which prevents the vehicle from rolling back by holding it in place on inclines until the driver presses the accelerator pedal.

Under the bonnet there will be a choice of two 2.0-litre fuel-efficient, Euro5 compliant, common rail TDI engines producing 163 PS, with torque of 400 Nm at a low 1,500 rpm, or 122 PS with maximum torque of 340 Nm from 2,000 rpm.

Both engines have a six-speed manual transmission and will have impressive fuel economy with low emissions to make the Amarok the first all-wheel drive pick-up in this class offering CO2 emissions of less than 200 g/km. Like the new Transporter and Caravelle, the Amarok has a gearchange indicator to help drivers achieve the best fuel economy, which with an 80-litre fuel tank should offer a range of over 600 miles.

UK prices and specifications will be confirmed nearer the Amarok’s UK launch. The range is expected to comprise a standard model for customers who need a pick-up that is as robust and practical as possible, to offering all the latest luxury items expected for those using Amarok as a leisure vehicle. An extensive accessories programme will also be offered for the Amarok – from a styling bar and running boards, through a cargo cover and Multi-Connect load securing system to a selection of stylish alloy wheels.

The large and ergonomically designed interior is the largest in its class and in many ways resembles that of a Volkswagen passenger car. Easy entry, lots of headroom and ample legroom for passengers on the rear bench seat make the Amarok a fully-fledged five-seater. If only two people are travelling, interior storage space can be increased by folding the rear seat.

Key markets for the Amarok include South America, South Africa and Australia; in these countries, because of their versatility, pick-ups are some of the most sought after recreational and commercial vehicles. Thanks to its efficient drive technology and tremendous versatility, the Amarok is also expected to be a trendsetter in the contemporary pick-up class in Europe.

THE SPACE RACE BEGINS: ORDER A NEW CARAVELLE OR CALIFORNIA NOW

2009-12-10T09:56:00.001Z

Full specification and pricing details for the new Volkswagen California campervan and the seven-seater Caravelle people carrier are now available ahead of their arrival in the UK in the New Year. Orders are being taken at Volkswagen Van Centres now for the first customer deliveries which are expected in February.

The new models are distinguished by new-look frontal styling in-line with the Polo and Golf, and are available with many of the latest luxuries seen in Volkswagen’s passenger cars, such as a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, an optical parking system (in conjunction with parking sensors) and the latest touchscreen navigation systems including a 30 Gb hard drive to store navigation and music.

Standard specifications have been enhanced for all models with added safety features and interior refinements such as improved front seats, new instruments, including a gear change indicator, and more intuitive controls, plus new radio/CD units. New options available include DAB digital radio reception, the latest touchscreen navigation, ‘rear assist’ reversing camera and a new range of alloy wheels. As before, the ‘sleep pack’ for the Caravelle includes curtains plus a bed extension and cover to make it suitable for camping.

Important new standard safety and convenience features include a passenger airbag deactivation switch, seatbelt reminder, daylight running function for the main headlights, front foglights with new cornering function for improved visibility while turning, emergency braking lights which flash under heavy braking, hill hold control and Volkswagen’s latest generation ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) with Rain Brake Support. New optional safety features are a tyre monitoring indicator to indicate when a tyre loses pressure, and ‘lane change assist’ to alert the driver to traffic in the vehicle’s blindspot.

Both models have four-cylinder, 2.0-litre common rail diesel engines available with a choice of 140 PS TDI or twin-turbo 180 PS BiTDI. Both engines deliver more power and torque than the five-cylinder engines they replace – 340 Nm and 400 Nm from 1,750 rpm and 1,500 rpm respectively – plus lower running costs thanks to longer service intervals and improved fuel consumption. They also benefit from a reduction in perceived noise levels by the equivalent of up to 50 per cent, plus lower emissions to Euro5 standards.

The new seven-speed DSG transmission is available with both engines in the Caravelle, and the higher output unit for the California. DSG will also be available with 4MOTION all-wheel drive later in 2010.

Prices for the new California SE range start from £39,950 (including VAT and ‘on the road’ costs). The new Caravelle is available in two trim levels, SE in short and long wheelbase models from £31,400 and £32,400 respectively (on the road), and the range-topping Executive (short wheelbase only) from £34,100 (on the road). The entry-level Startline model will be reintroduced at a later date.

SCRAP AND ESCAPE IN A VOLKSWAGEN CAMPERVAN FROM £315 A MONTH

2009-10-12T09:16:00.000+01:00

It’s not too late to take advantage of some tempting Personal Contract Plan (PCP) finance offers available until the end of the year for the Volkswagen California campervan and two spacious people carriers from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles – the Caddy Maxi Life and Caravelle. The extension to the Government’s scrappage scheme makes these offers even more attractive.

With seven seats and lots of luggage space the Caddy Maxi Life and Caravelle are versatile and spacious people carriers. The Caddy Maxi Life range starts from £16,920 (including VAT and on the road charges) but when taking advantage of the scrappage scheme allowance, the current Volkswagen Solutions PCP offer reduces from £189 a month (6.9 per cent APR) to only £159 a month (7.9 per cent APR)..

Alternatively, with the scrappage scheme contribution the current PCP offer for the larger Caravelle people carrier reduces from £299 a month (7.9 per cent APR) to £259 a month (7.7 per cent APR), and for the California campervan from £349 a month (5.9 per cent APR) to only £315 a month (7.5 per cent APR).

With the new generation Caravelle and California campervan due to be launched in January 2010, and with price rises due for both models to reflect increases in specification, raw material costs and inflationary pressure, the current PCP offers represent especially good value – while stocks last.

David George, Head of Marketing for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles says: ‘Our people carriers are perfect for seating seven people, and who could resist escaping for weekends and holidays in a new Volkswagen campervan? All Volkswagens offer value for money, but thanks to the Government’s ongoing scrappage scheme, these vehicles can now be an even more affordable part of your lifestyle.’

I-spy...A new craze for driving holidays

2009-10-01T12:47:00.002+01:00

The May Bank Holiday is nearly here and the British public are ready to experience the independence, fun and freedom of a motoring holiday, with one in five people saying they will hit the roads and take a driving holiday this year according to a survey by Volkswagen campervans.

The findings also showed that more than half of Brits are planning to stay in so-called ‘no-tels’ – anything other than a hotel or apartment – and are intending to take more spontaneous and adventurous holidays, staying in campervans, motorhomes, tents or caravans instead.

More than two thirds (68 per cent) of people say that adventure holidays make t

hem bond more with their family, and that a UK-based activity break would see families spending more quality time with their children.

Amanda Lamb, travel expert and TV presenter of ‘A Place In The Sun’, says: ‘In these unusual times people’s habits are changing. They want to pack up their loved ones and throw themselves into the thrill of road trips rather than being tied to a beach.’

The shift to more spontaneous holiday habits probably mirrors the mood of the nation, with the gloomy economy tempting people to escape to the freedom of t

he open road. Forty per cent of people say they will ‘set off on holiday and just see where they end up’ rather than planning anything in advance. A campervan was the most popular type of vehicle that people said would encourage them to take more breaks.

It’s not just the open road people look to for escape. Nine out of ten parents say that playing games together as a family on holiday is important, and will be indulging in the nation’s top three ‘car games’, which were revealed as ‘i-spy’, ‘number plate game’ and ‘yellow car’. People are predicted to play more than 100 million games of ‘i-spy’ while on the road this year.

A motoring holiday allows people, and particularly families, the chance to have some spontaneity and adventure in their lives, and provides a real break from the old routine. In March we saw around a 25 per cent increase in enquiries for brochures for our California campervan and Caravelle people carrier, so it seems the freedom and carefree spirit that made Volkswagen vans iconic in the 60s is back,’ said Simon Elliott, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

Proving that Brits really are in it for the experience this year, the survey also revealed that just 20 per cent said the threat of rain could stop them having fun. However, one in five will be packing wellies and one in three an umbrella. As a nation, though, we remain optimistic: over 80 per cent of respondents claimed they were planning to take sunglasses on holiday.

Latest 'blue' Crafter vans demonstrate green credentials

2009-10-01T12:38:00.000+01:00

The latest Volkswagen Crafter panel van, chassis and double cab ranges are set to become among the cleanest and most refined vehicles in their class. Substantial changes have been made to the drivetrain to make it both quieter and smoother thanks to greater torque. Conversely, fuel economy rises and emissions fall to not only meet but exceed the latest Euro V standards.

As a result, the new Crafter Euro V BlueTDI range has achieved certification as an EEV (Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicle) – meaning it meets the most exacting European exhaust standard for commercial vehicles. What’s more, in the UK, any Crafter Euro V models registered before the end of 2010 qualify for lower road tax (RFL) for the lifetime of the vehicle, which currently saves £60 per annum.

These significant achievements are a result of a combination of improvements, including new manual gearboxes, a modified DPF (Diesel Particular Filter), enhanced BlueTDI common rail, direct injection diesel engines and refinements used on Volkswagen’s latest BlueMotion models.

The new manual gearboxes are equipped with revised, longer ratios for fifth and sixth gears. In addition, the gearbox now has a shorter throw to allow quicker, more efficient changes.

The Volkswagen BlueTDI engines have increased engine torque by up to 13.6 per cent, plus improved fuel consumption to help reduce running costs. For example, the official Extra Urban consumption for a 109 PS engine in a Crafter CR35 panel van has improved by over seven per cent, from 32.1 mpg to 34.4 mpg.

To improve usability, the Crafter Euro V models have the latest generation of DPF, optimised to allow shorter regeneration time and longer regeneration intervals. Emissions of particulates, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and oxides of nitrogen have reduced to beyond the requirements of Euro V – and are almost half way to achieving Euro VI standards.

NOx reduction is achieved thanks to addition for the first time of an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) catalytic converter together with an additive, the synthetically-produced, water-based solution containing 32.5 per cent urea, AdBlue®. ‘Selective’ refers to the way the catalytic converter selectively converts NOx components in the exhaust system into nitrogen and water without producing undesirable by-products.

Stored in an auxiliary tank, the AdBlue® solution is continuously sprayed into the exhaust gas, upstream of the SCR catalytic converter. The rate of spray is metered via engine management according to the mass flow rate of the exhaust gas using an NOx sensor downstream of the SCR catalytic converter. Atomised into a fine vapour through a screen, the urea in the AdBlue® is converted in the hot exhaust gas upstream of the catalytic converter, reacting with the nitrogen oxides and splitting them into nitrogen and water.

The 25-30 litre AdBlue® tank will be refilled free of charge by the Volkswagen Van Centre network and authorised repairers during the first three years. AdBlue® is also widely available at many filling stations as it is already used by HGVs.

Simon Elliott, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles said: ‘The Crafter is the largest van in our range. We’re delighted to have improved fuel consumption and reduced running costs, and made it one of the most environmentally friendly vehicles in its class.’

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles keeps Red Bull racing on track

2009-10-01T12:36:00.000+01:00

Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel aren’t the only drivers in the Red Bull Racing Formula One team. Its other drivers rely on a dependable fleet of vans and people carriers from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles for delivering parts to races across Europe, often at short notice, and for taking people to and from airports or events.

Red Bull Racing’s fleet of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles includes its smallest and largest vans, the Caddy and Crafter; while for carrying people it has the Caddy Maxi Life and Caravelle, which both offer room for seven people and their luggage, plus a nine-seater Transporter shuttle (long wheelbase).

As an ambassador and reserve driver for the team, former F1 driver, David Coulthard demonstrated the relationship between Red Bull Racing and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles by taking Volkswagen’s Caddy Racer 2.0 TDI, tuned to 280 PS, around the track at Goodwood with a small group of selected media.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles announce name of new pickup

2009-10-01T12:33:00.001+01:00

The new Volkswagen pickup, showcased as a concept last year and due to be launched in Europe in 2010, is to be called the Amarok.

The new name means ‘wolf’ in the language of the Inuit, one of the Eskimo people who live in northern Canada and Greenland who highly regard the wolf as king of the wilderness and a figure of robustness, endurance and superiority. It translates into ‘he loves stones’ in the languages spoken in South America.

‘This name fits the characteristics of our pickup perfectly, which will set new standards in its class,’ says Stephan Schaller, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. ‘We took great care selecting this name, which can be used globally and is meant to invoke positive associations in all relevant international markets. The Amarok is a powerful and robust vehicle with great stamina – just like the wolf,’ he continued.

Developed from scratch, the Amarok will be launched as a double-cab pickup with four-wheel drive, while a single-cab version will be introduced later. It will be powered by Volkswagen’s powerful yet efficient, next generation common rail turbo diesel engines which will achieve class leading fuel consumption and emissions.

The Amarok is an important new model in the strategic growth plans for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and will be produced at its Pacheco plant near Buenos Aires in Argentina. It will be launched first in South America in early 2010, followed by Central America in Spring 2010, then Russia and Europe in the summer, as well as Africa and Australia. Prices, specifications and on-sale dates for the UK will be announced next year.

Volkswagen Caravelle takes Take That on Circus tour

2009-10-01T12:30:00.001+01:00

Less than two years after legendary British band Take That completed their sell-out Beautiful World comeback tour, the band is on the road again, taking “The Circus Live” Tour across the UK – thanks once more to Volkswagen’s people-carrier, the Caravelle.

The Caravelle has long been a popular choice with those in the music industry, thanks to its space, versatility, understated appearance and reliability. Take That chose the Volkswagen Caravelle for their Beautiful World Tour in 2007 and are delighted to be back in one this year.

Gary Barlow, lead singer of Take That, commented: ‘We love the Caravelle. It’s comfortable when we’re travelling and even with the four of us, it’s really spacious.’

Apart from being the chosen vehicle for celebrities, the Volkswagen Caravelle is equally at home as a family vehicle, luxury limousine or the ultimate MPV with space for seven people and their luggage. A choice of powerful yet frugal TDI engines.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles builds one millionth T5

2009-10-01T12:26:00.003+01:00

Hanover, 30th June 2009 – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles produced the one millionth vehicle of the T5 series today at the Hanover plant. The vehicle is a Transporter Van 1.9-litre TDI 62 kW in Tornado Red.

‘The T5 is and remains the number one in its segment for new registrations in Europe and Germany,’ commented Stephan Schaller, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles during the celebrations at the Hanover plant. ‘One million T5s – that means one million customers towards whom we have a particular responsibility. This number is, furthermore, the product of all employees at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles: in Production, but also in Development and Procurement, in Quality Assurance, in Sales and everywhere in the brand and in our dealerships,’ said Schaller.

Heinrich Söfjer, chairman of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles works council, also focused on the particular commitment of the employees: ‘The colleagues have once again been successful with the T5 in building a ve

hicle where quality is assured! On the one hand this increases the image of reliability for our T5 with the customers and on the other hand we have been able to further our market leadership both in good times and bad. With this anniversary, the T5 has made its contribution towards making Hanover the location for light goods and leisure vehicles yesterday, today and tomorrow.’

Last year alone Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered approximately 178,000 T5s to customers. Alongside Germany, the most important markets in Europe include Great Britain, The Netherlands and Austria.

The success story of the current series began with the start of production on 3rd March 2003. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles builds the T5 in the plants at Hanover and Poznań. The closed vehicle versions are built in Hanover and the open construction versions, dropside and double cabin, are built in Poznań. The T5 series is made up of the Transporter, Caravelle, Multivan and California models. Each individual model is made up of a scope of individual model variants. Numerous awards and first prizes from national and international motoring magazines demonstrate the popularity of the T5 from the beginning. Every year the T5 collects prizes in its segment: ‘Van of the Year’, ‘Transporter of the Year’ (2003), ‘International Van of the Year’ (2004), ‘Car of the Year’ (auto motor und sport 2004 – 2009), ‘Four-wheel vehicle of the Year’ (Auto Bild Allrad 2005 – 2009), ‘Touring vehicle of the Year’ (promobil, 2009) and finally ‘Classic vehicle of the future’ (Motor Klassik, 2007).

The T5 is also the first choice for trade, service providers, workmen, local and regional authorities, ministries and private customers for innumerable transport and mobility requirements. Whether it be a van, dropside, double cab, Kombi or Caravelle, Multivan and California – every customer requirement is fulfilled. The T5 is delivered with a long and short wheelbase and with right or left-hand drive. If one includes all of the individual engines, a total of 460 basic variants of the T5 are produced as standard in Hanover alone. The production line builds a model with a short wheelbase followed by one with a long wheelbase, a van is followed by a Kombi with one or two side windows. ‘This indicates that we can listen to the requirements of the customer, our motto being: build a vehicle to suit a need,’ says Schaller.

The T5 is in full swing. One million vehicles produced is the incentive to beat the approximately 1.7 million predecessor model T4s that were built in Hanover.

In order to underline the particular relationship of the production location to the Hanover region, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will, upon the occasion of this production jubilee, donate a T5 Caravelle to a family selected by the ‘A heart for children’ campaign.

Information on Hanover:

The foundation stone for the second Volkswagen plant after Wolfsburg was laid on 8th March 1955 – one year later the first Transporters left the production line in Hannover-Stöcken. With its more than five decades of history, the location has the longest tradition of any Transporter plant in the world. All five generations of the Volkswagen bus were produced here – a total of more than 7.5 million vehicles. Worldwide more than 10 million Volkswagen vans have been produced since 1950 – in Wolfsburg, Hanover, Poznań, Brazil, Mexico and South Africa. The home plant of Hanover was completely restructured for the start of production of the T5 on 3rd March 2003. With approximately 12,000 employees, the plant is the largest industrial employer in the Hanover region. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles produces not only the successful brand models here, but also cylinder heads and heat exchangers for the Volkswagen Group and, since March 2009, the finished body of the Porsche Panamera.

Helpful finance offers from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

2009-10-01T12:23:00.001+01:00

The latest range of offers from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, currently being promoted in a series of radio adverts featuring Ray Winstone, make it as easy and convenient as possible to afford and budget for a new or used Volkswagen Caddy, Caddy Maxi, Transporter or Crafter van. These offers are only available from participating Volkswagen Van Centres until 30 September, ahead of a price increase postponed until 1 October.

Unlike many banks, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Finance is financing more vehicles than ever, with very competitive rates. These include low rate Contract Hire and Finance Lease rates with low, fixed monthly payments for new Volkswagen vans, fixed price service plans, and Volkswagen’s latest scrappage incentives as well as some great offers on Approved Used.

For example, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Finance is continuing its Lease Purchase offer for Volkswagen Approved Used, 57-reg Caddy vans for £99 a month (plus deposit), or Transporter vans of the same age from £129 a month (plus deposit). Meanwhile, minibus and taxi drivers will be pleased to know that Volkswagen Approved Used, nine-seat Transporter shuttles are currently available with zero per cent Hire Purchase from £399 a month.

For brand new Volkswagen vans, the popular Contract Hire and Finance Lease offers over three years continue with some enhancements. The Caddy and Caddy Maxi stay at the same competitive rates of £189 and £209 a month (plus VAT and deposit) respectively, while the Transporter is still available at £229 a month (plus VAT and deposit) but with inclusive S pack, worth £500. This includes electric front windows, electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors, internal central locking control, perimeter alarm with back-up horn, bulkhead (without window) and two additional ‘C’ pillar load lashing rings. Finally, new Contract Hire and Finance Lease rates for the Crafter, which now has an unlimited mileage warranty as standard, start from £299 a month (plus VAT and deposit).

New van buyers with any eligible ten year old vehicle to trade in can benefit from £2,000 off the list price of a new Caddy or Transporter, or £3,000 off a new Crafter.

The fixed price servicing offers for customers with fleets of up to 25 vehicles range from £295 (plus VAT) up to £695 (plus VAT) covering a period of 36 months or mileages between 45,000 and 90,000 miles (whichever is sooner).

Unlimited mileage warranty makes Crafter tough to beat

2009-10-01T12:20:00.000+01:00

To offer fleet and high mileage customers even better support and value for money, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has enhanced the three year warranty for its Crafter, the biggest van in its range, to an unlimited mileage warranty as standard.

In addition, with three-years European roadside assistance also included, a full range of Euro V engines available, plus Volkswagen’s latest Contract Hire or Finance Lease offers from £299 a month (plus VAT and initial rental), this makes the Crafter one of the most competitive and affordable large vans in the 3,000 kg, 3,500 kg and 5,000 kg GVW sectors.

‘Improving the Crafter’s already excellent warranty and making it easy to afford gives it a competitive edge over its rivals,’ said Simon Elliott, Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. ‘It is also typical of how we’re trying to help our customers manage their budgets and business in the current economic climate, without resorting to desperate price cutting, distressing the market and harming residual values,’ he continued.

The Contract Hire and Finance Lease offers for the Crafter are available from all participating Volkswagen Van Centres until 30 September, ahead of a price rise scheduled for 1 October.

A new range of BlueTDI engines using Volkswagen’s BlueMotion Technologies were recently introduced across the Crafter range. These offer improved fuel economy and lower emissions beyond the Euro V standard to officially class the Crafter as an EEV (Enhanced Environmental Vehicle).

The extensive Crafter range offers payloads from 1,011 kg up to 2,603 kg, load volumes from 7.5 m³ up to a massive 17.0 m³. Retail prices currently range from £17,250 up to £30,510.

Adding the X Factor: Sportline limited edition X model introduced

2009-10-01T12:17:00.000+01:00

Volkswagen’s dynamic Sportline van range is proving more successful than ever. Despite the current economic climate, Sportline sales are already ahead of this time last year, and if success continues at the same rate, boosted by the introduction this week of a Transporter Sportline Limited Edition X model, sales are predicted to be over 30 per cent ahead of 2008.

Part of this great performance is thanks to the addition of the Caddy and Caddy Maxi Sportline models in late 2008, which are already about to exceed their sales forecast for 2009, plus the five-seat Transporter Sportline kombi model, also introduced last year, which has instantly become the most popular model in the range this year.

There will only be 150 of the Transporter Sportline Limited Edition X models, and they will be available in short and long wheelbase panel van or short wheelbase kombi. Each vehicle will be individually numbered, with a certificate for the owner.

In addition to the standard Transporter Sportline specification of 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome grilles and side sills, leather seats and front and rear spoilers, the Transporter Sportline X models gain distinctive, chrome and black ‘Dakar’ alloy wheels, ‘leather pack’ (leather steering wheel and gear lever), specially designed black and blue leather seats with limited edition numbered tag, Sportline floor mats, and rear parking sensors. There is a choice of two metallic paint colours – Reflex Silver, and for the first time for the Sportline range, Shadow Blue.

This unique specification and distinctive appearance is available for only £500 more than the equivalent Transporter Sportline T30, 174 PS, 2.5-litre TDI PD, with basic retail prices (including metallic paint) of £25,065 for the short wheelbase panel van, £25,545 for the long wheelbase panel van, and £26,805 for the kombi.

‘The success of the Sportline range proves that our customers still want a van that stands out from the crowd and creates a premium image,’ said Steve Reynolds, Head of Marketing, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

The Transporter Sportline Limited Edition X is available to order now, with first deliveries expected with customers and at Volkswagen Van Centres in early October.

New Transporter breaks cover - and heads for the top of the class

2009-10-01T11:40:00.000+01:00

The first details of the new Volkswagen Transporter range of vans, kombi, chassis cabs and window vans are released today, revealing a new refined exterior design plus significant advances in comfort, safety and refinement. Lower running costs are also guaranteed thanks to a new range of common rail TDI engines offering lower emissions and improved economy by an average of ten per cent across the range.

The Transporter is Volkswagen’s best-selling model in the UK and worldwide. Over one million of the current model have been sold since introduction in 2003, making a total of over 10 million since production started in March 1950. Nearly 60 years later, the new Transporter will prove even more successful and cost-

effective when it arrives in Volkswagen Van Centres in January 2010.

A new exterior sports more aerodynamic door mirrors and a similar front grille and headlight design to that seen on the latest Volkswagen passenger cars. Under the bonnet is a new range of four 2.0-litre four-cylinder common rail TDI engines, with power outputs of 84 PS and 220 Nm of torque from 1,500 rpm, 102 PS with 250 Nm from 1,500 rpm, 140 PS with 340 Nm at 1,750 rpm, and 180 PS with 400 Nm from a mere 1,500 rpm. These engines are quieter, more economical, and more efficient with lower emissions that now comply with the latest Euro V standards. To further aid fuel economy, there is also a gear shift recommendation display.

New options available for the new Transporter, and many for the first time in the LCV sector, include Volkswagen’s seven-speed DSG gearbox, which will also be available later in 2010 with the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, plus class-leading driver assist systems such as Volkswagen’s Side Assist lane change assistant, which uses LED lights in the door mirrors to warn if there is anything in the vehicle’s blind-spot, Rear Assist reversing camera, and a new TMD (Tyre Monitor Display) which can detect any decrease in tyre pressure. Other new safety features include ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme), hill-start assistant and an emergency braking system which automatically puts on the hazard warning lights, which will all be standard across the range.Internal changes make the new Transporter even more comfortable and convenient with many enhancements to quality and equipment. These include many features from the latest Volkswagen passenger cars, such as new three-spoke steering wheels, stylish new instruments and the latest audio and touchscreen navigation systems.

Prices and specifications of the new Transporter range will be released closer to launch.