New 2015 Volkswagen Transporter T6 revealed
Volkswagen reveals the new Volkswagen Transporter T6 in Amsterdam. UK sales start later in 2015
The new Volkswagen Transporter has made its full debut in Amsterdam ahead of arriving in the UK later this year. Shown in panel van, Caravelle MPV and Shuttle minibus guises, the T6 Transporter has arrived 65 years after the original T1 'Splitty' (one of many affectionate monikers for the class VE van) made its debut.
Sporting the latest VW design language with a full width grille and headlights that wouldn't look out of place on a VW passenger car, the latest Transporter is said to be more car-like than ever. Higher-spec models can be specified with full LED headlamps and daytime running lights on the exterior, plus a host of safety and security features already found elsewhere in the VW range. For example a Driver Alert System that detects if you are tired, a post-collision braking system, adaptive cruise control, and useful features like an electric tailgate and reversing camera are all on offer.
Inside, anyone familiar with Volkswagen's latest cars will feel at home. With plush materials on higher-spec Caravelle models and infotainment systems lifted straight from the likes of the Polo, Golf and Passat, the new Transporter feels just like an overgrown VW passenger car.
Engine-wise, the familiar range of VW diesels will be available, with Caravelle, Shuttle and California models being offered with Euro 6-compliant powerplants. For now, the Transporter panel van has Euro 5-compliant units. The engine range is extensive, from 83bhp all the way to a 201bhp unit. A 7-speed DSG gearbox can be specified on higher-output models. All the diesels are 2.0-litre TDI units and claim to be 15% more efficient than those in the current T5 Transporter.
A long wheelbase version will be available as will a high roof derivative. A passenger side sliding door comes as standard, with a driver's side sliding door available as an option. In terms of carrying capacity, the panel van cargo area ranges in size from 4.3m to 5.8m3 load volumes depending on the model chosen.
The California camper van version will join the range towards the end of the 2015, shortly after the panel van arrives in the UK. Caravelle and Shuttle passenger carrying versions make their debut in the fourth quarter too.
Also unveiled at the launch of the new Transporter was a 'Generation Six' special edition of the new van. Clad in two tone paintwork, retro wheels and with a two-tone interior it has been designed to hark back to the original T1. It's currently unconfirmed as to whether or not we'll be seeing the special Generation Six here in the UK.
