Volkswagen has just officially unveiled the new
Transporter T6.1 facelift, giving the sixth-generation commercial vehicle a
considerable update since its debut in 2015. The standard features now
include electric windows, central locking, electrically adjustable and heated
exterior mirrors, as well as a brand new face that’s more in line with the
current family face.
Up front, the Transporter T6.1 gets a larger air
intake, which the company says is something that it really needs with today’s
engines. The LED headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED tail lights
have all been redesigned, and customers now have more colours to choose from.
The debutant pictured here takes the form of the Multivan (known as Caravelle
in some markets), which will go on to form the base for the updated T6.1
California campervan.
Inside, the dashboard has been completely overhauled
and includes the automaker’s latest MIB3 range of infotainment systems, such as
the eight-inch Discover Media and 9.2-inch Discover Pro touchscreen units. More
importantly, head units upwards of the 6.5-inch Composition Colour get an
integrated eSIM, which offers the eCall function. The eSIM also brings
“Volkswagen We” to the table, and offers internet radio and music streaming
services. Voice command is also available for selected models.
For drivers, there’s a new configurable 10.25-inch
digital cockpit for models starting from the Multivan Highline. Other in-car
conveniences include App Connect, Qi wireless charging tray for compatible
smartphones, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity, which retires the
use of a cable connection. For those who work on the go, you can make use of a
new 230-volt socket at the driver’s seat.
In terms of powertrain, the Transporter T6.1 gets a
lean burning 2.0 litre four-cylinder TDI engine at launch. The oil burner is
available in several incremental tunes – the base model makes 90 PS (up from
the previous 84 PS), after which is a 110-PS offering, while the range-topping
model gets a 2.0 bi-turbo TDI that packs 199 PS. A mid-range 150 PS version is
also available, and can be ordered with a dual-clutch DSG with 4Motion
all-wheel drive. DSG is standard for the top 199 PS model, although 4Motion AWD
remains optional.
Alternatively, the T6.1 will soon be offered as a
zero-emissions vehicle that’s co-developed on a partnership with ABT. The
electric motor produces 112 PS, and it’s juiced by a choice of 38.8 kWh or 77.6
kWh batteries. The latter enables a driving range of over 400 km (based on the
NEDC cycle), making it ideal for commercial duty in the urban world, Volkswagen
claims.
Safety-wise, the van now comes with Cross Wind
Assist as standard. When there are cross winds, it automatically stabilises the
Bulli in case of strong wind gusts. Thanks to the new electromechanical power
steering, the Lane Assist system can now apply corrective steering input when
activated. Other safety features include Rear Traffic Alert, Trailer Assist
(2,500 kg maximum trailer weight), Park Assist, rear view camera and road sign
recognition.
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 will go on sale
later this year in September. No prices have been mentioned yet.
