Volkswagen has just launched the new Crafter to the Irish market with fuel consumption and CO2 emissions reduced by a staggering 33 per cent and maintenance costs reduced by up to 25 per cent. Volkswagen is helping its commercial customers and fleet operators plan with greater assurance as the new Crafter’s maximum payload is increased by 10 per cent in some models and provides a free of charge extended warranty for the third year of operation (or up to 250,000 km ) across all models.
Available in three gross vehicle weight derivatives of 3,000kg, 3,500kg, and 5,000kg, three van lengths, SWB, MWB, and LWB plus a super long and extra high option in some models, the new Crafter range offers a practical option for every commercial need, especially when you consider the single and double chassis cab versions. A window van is also available.
The all new Crafter range features a 2.0TDI common rail engine offering more fuel efficiency than ever before. Indeed, fuel consumption is improved by up to 2.3l/100km in some versions. The engines come in three power output versions, 109bhp, 140bhp, and 163bhp. All are mated to a six speed manual gearbox. To help improve fuel efficiency further, a gear change indicator is featured as standard.
Besides protecting the environment, the Crafter’s new four-cylinder engines also safeguard owners’ budgets for fuel and maintenance. Along with significantly reduced fuel expenses, expenditures for maintenance and vehicle operation have been reduced by up to 25 per cent; this is primarily attributable to reduced service costs. As usual, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles also provides a 12-year body protection (anti-rust ) warranty on the new Crafter.
Due to the significantly lighter weight of the new four cylinder engines, the Crafter’s kerb weight has reduced in practically all versions. This has led to an increase in payload of nearly 10 per cent in some versions.
Visually, the new Crafter is characterised by a styling that has been revised with feeling. With the horizontal geometry of the radiator grille, the front end adopts the company’s current ‘design DNA’ which also characterises the Caddy, Amarok, and Transporter model ranges. The interior trim has been revised also.
Standard equipment includes ABS, ESP, electric windows, electric heated door mirrors, remote control central locking, twin air bags, and 270 degree wrap around rear doors. A host of optional extras are also available including a start/stop system to reduce fuel consumption even further.
Pricing starts from €22,000 excl VAT and an attractive 5.9 per cent APR HP offering is available from Volkswagen Bank. The new Crafter is available to test drive today at your local Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles dealership.
Niall Phillips, sales and marketing manager, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland commented: “With a sharpened design, optimised interior, the latest generation of TDI engines – as fuel efficient as they are powerful – and significantly reduced fuel and maintenance costs, the new Crafter will be an equally desirable choice for both large fleet operators and self-employed van drivers in Ireland.”
