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VW TRANSPORTER
New generation of the Transporter, Multivan, Caravelle and California: New versions of the best-selling series begin in autumn 2009
* New Common Rail TDI drops fuel consumption by up to 1.9 litres
* New front design in keeping with the stylistically refined Volkswagen Design DNA
* New infotainment and driver assist systems for optimum comfort and safety
* New generation of ESP including the hill-start assistant comes as standard in all vehicles
The Transporter, Caravelle, Multivan and California €“ these are the four basic versions of an internationally best-selling vehicle so popular that is has sold in the millions. For its huge fan base, people like service providers, trades people, families, business people and globe trotters, these multi-talented vehicles are an automotive way-of-life, a symbol for endless mobility and variety. A few weeks after the Multivan and California are premiered at the IAA in Frankfurt in September 2009, a new generation of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle’s successful models will hit the roads. The new perfected version gives out even fewer emissions as well as being more efficient, economical, comfortable, elegant, intelligent and safer than ever before. Advance sales for all four basic versions will start at the IAA.
Refinement and high-tech features fit for a bestseller
The bestseller’s body design is now in line with Volkswagen’s new Design DNA. The new front design shows off the series in an even more elegant light. The series, which is known as the T5 by Volkswagen employees, has also been given a huge technical boost. Take the engines for example: the new Turbo diesel engines (TDI) are more efficient, exceptionally quiet and now fitted with a Common Rail Injection system. Thanks to the new TDI, fuel consumption levels have decreased by up to 1.9 litres and CO2 emissions have dropped by 52 g/km, so that all engines now fulfil the EU5 emission standards. What’s more, the new versions come with an optional 7-gear dual clutch gearbox (DSG) - an international first for this class of vehicle! As another optional extra, you can have the new four-wheel drive function (4Motion with 4th generation Haldex coupling), which allows you to drive off-road. Another revolutionary highlight from the new models is that, from the start of the year, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be offering a 4Motion version in conjunction with DSG. Safety features have been further improved thanks to the standard hill-start assistant, refined ESP, a new hazard warning light for the brake lights (emergency brake lights) and new optional driver assist systems. In addition, the interior is fitted with new instruments, steering wheels, radio/navigation systems and textures on top of ergonomic perfection.
Four new Common Rail TDI and dual clutch gearboxes
With the new four-cylinder diesel engines with Common Rail Injection, the best-selling series in both Germany and Europe sets new benchmarks for both its economy and its kindness to the environment. The TDI (1,968 cm³) comes as either 62 kW / 84 PS, 75 kW / 102 PS, 103 kW / 140 PS or 132 kW /180 PS. The 140 PS engine is boosted by a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, while Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has fitted a two-stage charger with bi-turbocharger in the top of the range 180 PS. This form of downsizing means that, for the first time in the Volkswagen Group, a compression ignition engine is being used in a vehicle of this performance range.
The greatest feature is the fuel-saving capacity. It is the first time in the world that a transporter, van or touring vehicle has been equipped with a 7-gear dual clutch gearbox (DSG), which allows fuel consumption in the 180 PS version to drop by up to 1.9 litres when compared with the previous 6-gear automatic. In the meantime, the 85 kW / 115 PS petrol engine will be carried over and now complies with EU5 emission standards.
Compared to previous generations, Volkswagen were able to decrease CO2 emissions and fuel consumption levels by an average of 10 percent across the whole range. In vehicles with a manual gearbox and front-wheel drive, the CO2 emissions and fuel consumption levels* range from 7.2 litres / 190 g/km CO2 (84 PS and 102 PS) to 7.5 litres / 190 g/km CO2 (180 PS): that’s up to 0.9 litres less than ever before.
All four diesel engines respond extremely quickly and almost as soon as you have left idling speed as well! Even the smallest TDI engine with 84 PS has a maximum torque of 220 Newton metres from just 1,250 rpm. The 102 PS version goes to 250 Newton metres from 1,500 rpm, the 140 PS TDI hits a high of 340 Newton metres from 1,750 rpm while the 180 PS TDI propels into the crankshaft with an impressive 400 Newton metres from
1,500 rpm. And of course all versions are fitted with a particle filter.
The Multivan and Co. on track with the new Volkswagen Design DNA
Alongside other new design features, the new generations really stand out with a completely modified front end. Clear, horizontal lines give the series a timeless, elegant appearance. The ribs on the radiator grille are all black. In the Transporter (panel van, kombi, drop-side), Caravelle Trendline and California Beach the ribs are in matt black. Whereas the Caravelle Comfortline, Multivan (recreational and business van) and the California Comfortline (touring van) all feature black, high gloss ribs, each highlighted with a chrome stripe. The top stripe is visibly extended so that it stretches into the newly designed headlights. Also, for the first time, the newly designed fog lights in the rear bumper will act as static cornering lights as well. The rears of the Caravelle, Multivan and California have changed since the previous versions as they now have new rear lights which are in keeping the current Design DNA.
New driver assist systems and additional standard equipment
Depending on the vehicle’s equipment level, the new models are decked out with new
17" and 18" alloy wheels as well as new exterior mirrors, refined for improved aerodynamics. And for the first time, the exterior mirrors house the entire antenna system. As another ground-breaking feature in this class, the best-selling vehicles are now available with the Side Assist lane change assistant. As seen in the Touareg, this system uses LEDs in the exterior mirrors to warn the driver of any vehicles in the blind spot. What else is new: the tyre monitor display (TMD). The TMD constantly analyses how quickly the tyres are rotating. By comparing the different speeds, the system detects when the tyre pressure has dropped.
More new features: the Multivan Comfortline now comes with 16" alloy wheels. The Multivan Highline is now equipped with new 17" alloy wheels as well as chrome trims on the sides and rear.
The interior which crosses the bridge to passenger vehicles
The models’ interiors have been completely re-worked. Take the instruments for example: With a new design, they are lit in white from behind and highlighted by a chrome frame. Each of the new generation’s models will come with a gear shift recommendation display. The entire collection of radio and navigation systems has also been updated. The new top of the range device is the RNS 510 with touch screen and hard-drive navigation. The optional Dynaudio sound system delivers magnificent concert-hall acoustics. The USB interface, Media-IN, allows you to connect any devices, such as MP3 players, quickly and easily. New features on board are the controls for the semi- and fully-automatic air conditioning systems and the three-spoke steering wheels. Many of the versions have had some additions to their standard equipment. The Multivan Startline has seen some great improvements: for example, compared to the previous model, the new basic model now has a full trim interior and side and curtain airbags for the driver and front passenger. The finished bumper, which comes as standard, highlights the fact that the Startline is a member of the Multivan family.
Last but not least, the Transporter can be ordered with a new double front passenger seat bench which includes an integrated folding stowage compartment. And all this is coming soon: the new generations will be launched in the middle of October.
Unveiled in April 2003 and on sale in the UK from 3 October 2003, the fifth instalment in the Transporter legend is continuing the sterling work of preceding models, as well as extending the model's 53-year production life and 8.5 million volume well into the future.
The Volkswagen is larger, offers more load space and higher payloads, has greater versatility and is equipped with more powerful and more fuel-efficient engines than the model it replaced. It also features as standard many safety and luxury items which are far from commonplace in its market segment.
As a range, the Transporter offers something for every need. It is available as a panel or window van, shuttle people carrier, and as a single or double chassis cab; with a choice of two wheelbases and three roof heights standard, medium and high; four engine options and four gross vehicle weights. The body configuration possibilities and optional equipment available make this Transporter the most flexible and versatile vehicle that Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has ever offered.
SUMMARY
front-engined and front-wheel drive
available as a panel van, window van, shuttle people carrier and single or double chassis cab
short and long wheelbase versions; four GVWs from 2.6 to 3.2 tonnes; three roof heights
vehicle designations denote GVW: T26 (2.6 tonnes), T28, T30, T32
length 4890 mm; width 1904 mm; height 1969 mm (short wheelbase); load space ranges from 5.8 to 9.3 cu m
specially-designed front suspension system with isolated chassis subframe
four TDI PD diesel engines: 1.9-litre four-cylinder 85 and 104 PS; and 2.5-litre five-cylinder 130 and 174 PS; all units use Volkswagen's proven and award-winning 'Pumpe D�se' or unit injector technology1.9-litre models feature five-speed manual gearbox; 2.5s have six speeds. Tiptronic six-speed automatic available as an option
4MOTION four-wheel drive version available with 2.5-litre TDI PD 130 PS engine and six-speed manual transmission
sophisticated and market-leading safety systems with ABS fitted as standard, along with traction control, electronic brake-pressure distribution and an electronic differential lock
driver airbag standard; up to five additional airbags available as options
manufactured in Hanover and Pozn�n (Poland) plants; production shared according to model type and demand
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles plans to sell around 10,000 Transporters in 2004 six speed manual
DESIGN Exterior
The external dimensions of the short wheelbase Transporter are greater than those of the previous generation model at 4890 mm long, 1904 mm wide and 1969 mm high. The panel van is capable of payloads of up to 1357 kg, impressive towing weights and GVWs from 2,600 to 3,200 kg.
Comparison of Mk 4 and 5 short wheelbase standard roof panel van dimensions:
Anti-corrosion systems
A raft of anti-corrosion measures are incorporated into the Transporter's design, to avoid any potential rust 'hot spots'. For example, the entire perimeter of the sliding doors fits flush with the outer skin of the bodyshell when closed and is thus protected from water spray and gravel impact from the front wheels.With this vehicle, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has taken a new approach to under-body protection against corrosion. Whereas underside protection is conventionally spray-applied, the Transporter features multiple-section polymer panelling which makes the use of wax sealants unnecessary.
A positive side-effect of this full-coat solution is a reduction in under-body noise produced by gravel or water impact, especially since polymer materials are also used to line the wheel housings.
The entire under-body structure of the Transporter is galvanised using the hot-dip technique. The bodyshell's outer skin, as well as the doors, bonnet and mudguards, are subjected to electronic galvanisation in order to ensure enhanced surface quality.Compared with the procedures used in the past, the Transporter's bodyshell sealing system is a major advance, both in terms of efficiency and environmental friendliness. The robot-controlled process is far more targeted and reduces waste, while the paintshop process uses only water-based colour lacquers.Cavity sealing is done using a Volkswagen-patented sealant flooding method which does away with the need for spraying. Instead, sealant is flooded into the cavities and then removed. Protective foil is employed in several different areas to protect the bodyshell from gravel or human handling.
Thanks to this quality engineering, the Transporter is able to boast a three-year paintwork warranty and excellent 12-year corrosion warranty.
Interior
The Transporter's cabin is designed not only to provide a pleasant driving experience but also to function as an efficient and practical workplace.The seats offer excellent comfort levels even on long journeys; the driver's is provided with height adjustment and adjustable lumbar support as standard. Finding the perfect driving position is aided by a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, while the gearshift is conveniently mounted close at hand on the dashboard. This gives more space in the cab, and an unobstructed floor.Dual passenger seats are fitted as standard on the panel van; a single passenger seat is on the window van.
The dashboard has been designed to make the instruments easy to read and with excellent ergonomics, and there are several sizeable storage areas. These include compartments on the outside of the seats and two each in the driver and passenger doors, the lower of which will accommodate a 1.5-litre bottle and an A4 file folder. There are storage pockets at each end of the dashboard, beneath the air vents; open storage near the gearshift; and a storage box integrated within the roof liner. There is also a lockable glovebox and two cupholders.
Heating system
Recognising the importance of the Transporter's role as workplace, Volkswagen designers paid considerable attention to climate control systems.The heat exchanger, at the heart of the heating system, is housed beneath the instrument panel; the system features fresh/recirculated air circuits and a pollen filter.
Optional extras include:
full air-conditioning, with conditioned air entering the vehicle via nine vents
a fuel-powered auxiliary heater to provide extra warmth in the cargo area
a water-based auxiliary heater controlled via an additional battery which can heat the vehicle automatically via a timer switch or even by remote control
warm-air additional heating, for use when the vehicle is being used as a workshop or for the transport of frost-sensitive goods
Panel van
The Transporter offers unrivalled marketplace versatility, with short wheelbase versions available with normal or medium roof heights and long wheelbase versions with three different roof heights. A variety of GVWs are also offered, meaning there is a variant to suit every purpose. The load space concept is a sophisticated one, with a virtually rectangular cross-section and a load length of 2543 mm in short wheelbase models. Load height starts at 1394 mm and payloads begin at 795 kg.
Such is the strength and rigidity of the Transporter's box body that it can be fitted if desired with two sliding doors one sliding door, on the left, is standard to turn it into a twin-loader. Electrically operated sliding doors are an option, and a tailgate can be specified in lieu of the standard twin rear doors.Load-lashing rings (six or eight, depending on wheelbase) are fitted as standard, and there is a choice of bulkhead options as well as side wall panelling and rubber or wooden flooring.
Window van
Total flexibility is on offer from the Transporter window van and shuttle ranges.
The window van provides a wide range of seating layouts which can accommodate up to nine people; many of the seats are either removable (with no need for tools) or can fold and tip to provide greater load space as required. The backrests of all the bench seats can be folded down to provide a level work surface.
A range of door and window options is offered to suit all applications, as well as a choice of rear compartment heating and air conditioning systems.
This van is designed primarily as a crew cab vehicle.
People-carrying shuttle
Available with a choice of two wheelbases and either eight or nine seats, the Transporter shuttle offers buyers a no-frills MPV. It is aimed at the hotel/airport shuttle and taxi sector, though also ideal for families or businesses who need more than seven seats.
In standard form the shuttle seats eight people two in the front, with two rows of three behind. The ninth seat is available as an option, and is located in the front row as a dual passenger seat. Unlike the window van, the shuttle offers more luxury, with standard features including roller blinds for side windows; electrically adjustable mirrors; electric windows; and SE versions benefiting from body-coloured bumpers, air conditioning and carpeted floors.
Single and double chassis cab
Completing the Transporter range are chassis and double cab variants, both of which come with a long wheelbase as standard.
With these versions, a dropside is also available offering added flexibility for operators.
ENGINES
The Transporter features a range of engines employing Volkswagen's proven 'Pumpe D�se' or unit injector technology. The line-up comprises four TDI PD engines: two four-cylinder 1.9-litre units of 85 and 104 PS; and two five-cylinder2.5-litre powerplants of 130 and 174 PSthe most powerful in this sector. When coupled with the six-speed manual gearbox, the 2.5-litre TDI 130 PS engine is available with the four-wheel drive system 4MOTION.Diesel technology
Volkswagen has for a long time been at the forefront of diesel technology.
Its latest system is known as 'Pumpe D�se' or 'PD' technology. Pumpe D�se translates as 'unit injector' and describes a fuel injection system which can operate at pressures of up to 2050 bars or 30,000 psi.Higher injection pressures mean better mixing of fuel and air. In turn this allows more fuel and air to be burnt cleanly in each cylinder of the catalysed TDI engine
to provide a new industry benchmark power unit. PD technology combines the injector and pump into one unit for each cylinder and is operated by the engine camshaft - with the outgoing TDI engine, fuel is pressurised by a distributor injector pump which feeds the individual injectors. A finer adjustment of the fuel injection process with a much higher pressure results in higher torque yet little or no change in fuel consumption or CO2 emissions.1.9-litre TDI PD, 8-valve 4-cyl, 85 and 104 PS
Volkswagen's renowned and award-winning 1.9-litre TDI PD engine employs a separate injection pump for each of the four cylinders, arranged directly above the injector. This extremely compact design enables high injection pressures and allows fuel to be injected directly into each combustion chamber.Both of the 1.9-litre units feature an exhaust gas turbocharger with VTG (Variable Turbine Geometry) and charge air cooling, ensuring extremely high efficiency.
The 85 PS unit develops its maximum torque of 148 lbs ft at just 2,000 rpm and, coupled with a five-speed gearbox, returns 47.1 mpg at a steady 56 mph. With its 80 litre fuel tank volume, this means a range of around 800 miles.
Figures provided by the 104 PS engine are no less impressive: at 2,000 rpm it provides torque of 184 lbs ft, yet the panel van's average fuel consumption figure is 46.3 mpg at a constant 56 mph with half payload.2.5-litre TDI PD, 10-valve 5-cyl, 130 and 174 PS
Among the chief benefits of the Transporter's 2.5-litre TDI PD unit are its exceptionally compact dimensions and weight. One of the keys to this is the helical-toothed spur-gear drive on the gearbox side, which operates not only the valve gear but also all the peripheral units such as the alternator, the water and oil pumps, as well as the servo pump and air-conditioning compressor.There are two versions available, each matched to a six-speed transmission.
The 130 PS version provides maximum torque of 251 lbs ft at 2,000 rpm, while the 174 PS unit provides an exceptional 295 lbs ft at similarly low revs. Both 2.5-litre engines are also economical, with the panel vans both returning 44.8 mpg at a constant 56 mph and with half payload.
Gearboxes
All Transporters with four-cylinder engines feature as standard the familiar and well-proven five-speed gearbox of the previous generation Transporter, albeit with revised and optimised gear ratios.
The five-cylinder models are fitted as standard with a completely new six-speed gearbox specially developed to handle the high torque loads developed. The adoption of six speeds has allowed the designers to optimise ratios and thus improve performance and economy.
Available as an optional extra, is a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission system, which offers the driver the choice of making manual up or down gearshifts by tipping the gear lever forwards or backwards. The system features an 'S' setting with a 'sports' shift programme.
Servicing
Service intervals have traditionally been set at fixed time or mileage parameters, but the development of new engines and LongLife synthetic oil has changed this. New generation Volkswagen engines, including those on the Transporter, have built-in sensors that continually monitor oil quality, so a smart chip decides when it needs changing and flags up a service reminder on the dashboard monitor. Service intervals are therefore determined by driving style and patterns, and can vary from a minimum of 9,000 miles or one year, up to a maximum of 18,000 miles or two years.
These long oil intervals are possible thanks to the use of Castrol SLX LongLife II engine oil. This is a fully synthetic SAE 0W-30 oil that has been specially formulated to be compatible with the longer service intervals of both petrol and diesel engines, and in particular, Volkswagen's PD units.
By removing this oil and using traditional lubricants, it is still possible to have servicing at fixed intervals of one year or 10,000 miles. The choice is made at PDI (the vehicle's pre-delivery inspection), and can be changed at a major service.There are no strict rules on which to base the decision of which servicing regime will be most beneficial to a customer. LongLife oil protects for up to three times the distance of standard oil, but it costs roughly three times as much. However, cost savings are available from reduced servicing costs, and possible improved fuel economy: operators can expect an average reduction of 2.7 per cent on their fuel bills by using LongLife oil. What's more, as less oil has to be disposed of with less servicing, there are clear advantages for the environment.Operators interested in the LongLife service regime can learn more from their local Van Centre. Each centre has a computer programme that can take account of individual situations and illustrate the potential savings over fixed servicing, in terms of both maintenance and fuel costs.
RUNNING GEAR
The Transporter sets exceptionally high standards in terms of ride and handling, thanks to an innovative suspension set-up, advanced safety features and a highly rigid body structure. Even with maximum payload, the Transporter has outstanding dynamic handling qualities and stability.
Front axle
Among the Transporter's innovations is a separate front subframe. Unusually, the track control arms and anti-roll bar are attached to a subframe rather than being directly linked to the body. Vibration-absorbing mountings are used to attach the subframe to the body, leading to extremely effective insulation from vibrations and enhanced ride comfort.The subframe also serves as a second energy absorbing platform in a head-on collision.
Rear axle
The Transporter's rear suspension arrangement features semi-trailing arms with compact 'miniblock' coil springs and separate dampers. Anti-roll bars are fitted at both the front and the rear. 4MOTION four-wheel drive
A sophisticated four-wheel drive version of the Transporter is available in combination with the 2.5-litre TDI 130 PS engine and the six-speed manual gearbox.
4MOTION models use electronically controlled Haldex transmission, mounted on the rear axle, to split the drive between the front and rear wheels. Using a second generation Haldex system, the new transmission is faster acting, more sensitive, quieter and more compact than before.
In normal driving 90 per cent of the engine's power is delivered to the front wheels, with 10 per cent going to the rear. This results in characteristics familiar to drivers of front-wheel drive vehicles, plus improved fuel efficiency compared with a permanent four-wheel drive system. As the system senses loss of traction, the Haldex transmission transmits power to the wheels with the most grip; as much as 100 per cent of the engine's power can transfer to the rear wheels if necessary.With a multi-plate wet clutch, it locks the front and rear wheels together as soon as a speed difference between them of more than a certain value is detected. The power of the engine is always transferred to the wheels with the maximum possible traction.
The Haldex coupling works hydraulically, with two ring piston pumps within the clutch supplying the pressure to push the plates together. The ring piston pumps come into action following any difference in rotation between the front and rear wheels.
The 4MOTION system provides four-wheel drive through the addition of a propeller shaft that takes drive from additional bevel gears on the front final drive. It is then transferred to the rear wheels via a Haldex Coupling to a lockable rear differential and rear drive shafts. All UK models come with a lockable rear differential controlled through a switch on the dashboard.
On the 4MOTION model, the rear wheels are suspended in the same manner as the front wheel drive version. The 4MOTION system adds approximately 100 kg to the weight of the Transporter.
Variants available in conjunction with 4MOTION are:
Transporter panel van, short wheelbase and long wheelbase
Transporter window van, short wheelbase
Transporter chassis cab, long wheelbase
Transporter double cab, long wheelbase
Transporter shuttle SE, short wheelbase and long wheelbase.
Steering, tyres and wheels
The servo-assisted rack and pinion steering system offers the Transporter driver the twin benefits of easy manoeuvrability and precision: only 3.3 turns lock to lock. Despite the track being wider and the standard tyre size increasing (205/65 R16), the Transporter's turning circle has improved, to 11.9 m.
Braking system
The Transporter's braking system features as standard a four-channel ABSanti-locking system, TCS traction control system, EBD electronic brake-pressure distribution (which automatically alters front/rear braking effort to maximise braking performance), and an electronic differential lock (EDL).
Optional extras on the window van and shuttle variants include the Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP), and Brake Assist (BAS).
Brake Assist
Working in conjunction with the other elements of the braking system, Brake Assist recognises from the speed at which the brake pedal is depressed whether it is a 'normal' braking situation or an emergency stop. In the event of an emergency stop, it automatically increases braking pressure, activating ABS and ensuring the level of braking meets the conditions. The application of brake assist makes it possible even for unskilled drivers to reduce braking distances by around 25 per cent.
Electronic Stabilisation Programme - ESP
Also optional is ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme), a sophisticated system that automatically senses any tendency for the van to slide. Should this situation occur, ESP reacts by applying the brakes to one, two, three or all four wheels and adjusts the engine's power. In this way, it is possible that a skid is corrected even before the driver is aware that one has started.
This can be useful if a tendency to understeer or oversteer develops in a bend. In such circumstances ESP can help prevent the van skidding or spinning off the road and is particularly helpful in wet or icy conditions. ESP uses the sensors and systems associated with the traction control system, the electronic differential lock (EDL) and the electronic brake-pressure distribution system (EBD)
FACTORY AND VAN CENTRE FIT OPTIONS
Although all Transporter models feature a high level of standard equipment, for those wishing to customise their vehicles further, a wide range of factory and van centre fit options is available.
Many options are grouped into packs: for example, a customer could choose one of five door packs depending on whether they required a tailgate or wing doors, and one or two side doors. There are also six different seat packs to choose from. Of course load floor covers and load side linings are also available.
Unusually in a commercial vehicle, a six-disc CD autochanger and a satellite navigation system are also available from the factory.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles's nationwide network of Van Centres has also developed a range of options and accessories, to make sure each Transporter is tailored to the needs of the user. As expected from Volkswagen, all items are continually monitored for quality and are covered by warranty.
These include:
Plylining kits
Rear light guards
Roof ventilators
Waterproof seat covers
Roof racks
Towbars
Reversing aids
Security features, including steering wheel locks and alarms
Alloy wheels
SAFETY
In addition to the Transporter's many standard active safety features, which include anti-lock braking and traction control systems, there is a host of passive safety systems.Among these are three-point, height adjustable inertia reel belts on all seats, with those on the cab outer seats being fitted with pre-tensioners.
A driver airbag is fitted as standard on all models. A passenger airbag, twin side airbags and two curtain airbags are optional extras.
On Transporter window vans and shuttle featuring 4MOTION, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) and Brake Assist (BAS) are fitted as standard.
The Transporter's bodyshell features a number of crash-safety enhancements. The chassis side members act as the main load paths in the event of a collision and are designed to 'concertina', absorbing impact energy as they do so. At collision speeds of up to 9.3 mph the front bumper will absorb impact energy and body parts located behind will be undamaged. This means considerably lower repair bills which would usually result from around-town manoeuvring and parking knocks. SECURITY
Security is of key importance to commercial vehicle operators. To ensure the Transporter meets the standards expected, the following key features are offered:
standard remote control central locking including deadlocks
standard transponder-based engine immobiliser
optional factory fitted alarm system
steering wheel 'freewheel' lockchild locks on window van and kombi
internal release for rear door(s) (emergency exit)
WARRANTIES
All Transporters sold through a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK Van Centre have a three year bumper-to-bumper warranty. The first two years with no mileage restrictions are manufacturer operated, while the third year (and up to 100,000 miles) is a Van Centre warranty.
In addition, all have a 12 year anti-corrosion guarantee (up from eight years on the previous model), a three year paintwork warranty and a three year comprehensive recovery and assistance package. The result of this final warranty is fully trained technicians on hand 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to diagnose and repair most problems at the roadside using Volkswagen equipment and genuine parts.
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