Review: Volkswagen Crafter (2006 – 2017)

The Crafter is the largest model in the Volkswagen panel van range, but also available as a chassis cab or double cab, passenger carrying window van, or as the base for a range of official conversions, including tipper, dropside and Luton bodies. It is also used for other applications, such as minibus or refrigerated units, which are available via Volkswagen approved converters.

The improved efficiency of the new Crafter range is in large part thanks to its completely revised engine range.  A Volkswagen four-cylinder 2.0-litre common rail TDI engine has replaced the previous five-cylinder, 2.5-litre BlueTDI unit to deliver better fuel economy with lower emissions and running costs.

The 2.0-litre TDI is already proven in other models across the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles range, but has been specifically tuned for the new Crafter to deliver more torque at lower engine speeds to give it more pulling power and reduce engine wear and tear.

The Crafter’s spacious cabin is ergonomically designed for comfortable and safe driving. Comfort features include a dash-mounted gear lever, excellent storage space, dual passenger seat, and a driver’s seat with height, reach and rake adjustment. Safety features include a driver’s airbag fitted as standard, full height steel bulkhead, plus load adjusting ESP Electronic Stabilisation Programme.

All load-carrying Crafters come equipped with fold-down load lashing eyes in the floor. Vans are also equipped with these on the pillars. Depending on the length of the loadspace, the vehicle is equipped with up to 12 such points, all of which comply with the relevant safety standards. Additional anchoring points can be provided as optional tracks at window sill height on the side walls, and with further tracks immediately beneath the roof frame.