Volkswagen Commercials Vehicles (VCI ) says that the clear objective when designing and engineering the all-new Crafter was to produce a customer-focused transport solution, offering high economy and low total cost of ownership. It adds, that to that end it was developed precisely in line with the specific demands and requirements of various user groups and will achieve class-leading performances in a number of areas.
For example, what systems help in inner-city traffic? How can accidents caused by tiredness be reduced? What makes manoeuvring easy on a muddy building site? As a result, Volkswagen says that the Crafter offers innovative, practical, and electronic solutions for various individual challenges.
The van manufacturer boasts that the Crafter's all-new EU six engines and new exterior design give the model the lowest consumption and emission figures. The engines are designed for both short and long-distance driving to ensure downtime is never a problem. The new Crafter also scores with its robustness and low maintenance and repair costs, all of which have a positive effect on total cost of ownership over the vehicle’s life cycle.
It adds that the key optimal dimensions of the new Crafter ensure maximum practicality, and ease in everyday situations. For example, the new vehicle combines extensive cargo capacity with minimal external dimensions, making it extremely manoeuvrable yet solid in its handling, regardless of payload. In total it comes in four base models, three lengths, and three heights.
The new Crafter is promised in an extremely wide range of derivatives. The new 2.0-litre TDI engine, developed especially for this model, is available with four power outputs: 102 PS, 122 PS and 140 PS, plus a bi-turbo TDI with 177 PS. It has not been announced yet if all or which will be offered here.
The choice of engines depends on which drive system is selected. Customers here should have a choice of front, rear, and all-wheel drive [4MOTION], as well as the option of a manual or automatic gearbox. Such variety has never been seen before in this segment.
There are also up to three different vehicle lengths available depending on the model chosen, while the closed body variants come with up to three different roof heights. This means customers can configure their new Crafter exactly in line with their specific requirements and find the right combination of engine, gearbox, drive system, vehicle length, and roof height to meet their needs.
Volkswagen claims that the all-new Crafter sets new standards for assistance systems in the large van sector; not for the sake of it, but to optimise occupant protection through the use of active and passive safety concepts regardless of payload.
It explains that this is made possible in large part due to an electro-mechanical steering system used for the first time in this vehicle class which means active driver assistance systems, such as ESP with trailer stabilisation, ACC adaptive cruise control, post-collision braking system, side wind compensation system, and a trailer manoeuvring assistant system among others are all available.
In terms of passive safety, front, side, and head airbags for the driver and passengers, and an extensive range of warning systems that includes a reversing camera, parking distance monitor, and the rear traffic alert system are also on offer. LED headlights, cornering lights and light assist ensure a clear view of the road ahead at night, while the Crafter also comes with online services that are tailored to the specific needs of customers.
The new Crafter is being built in a special new production facility was built in Poland.
