By Khulekani Dumisa

Volkswagen SA has updated and expanded the local crafter range. The expansions see the addition of Crafter 35 Automatic and 4MOTION derivatives.

Interior improvements

The interior ergonomics have been enhanced. Improvements include improved seat upholstery for durability, a revised instrument cluster and control panel, smart storage spaces.

Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI Automatic

The Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI Automatic is characterised by a 100mm lower loading sill (when compared to the 4MOTION derivative), the largest loading height and payload in its class as well as bigger headroom within the loading area.

The transmission utilised in this derivative is an 8-speed torque convertor automatic transmission.

Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 4MOTION

The Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 4MOTION is based on the front-wheel drive model but adds a four-wheel drive coupling that delivers power to the rear axle. The permanent four wheel driving system means that as much power as possible is sent to the front wheels alone in order to maximise fuel economy.

The six-speed manual gearbox utilised in this model has been further developed from the T6 gearbox.

Both these Crafter 35 derivatives are available with a 2.0 TDI engine which boasts 103kW and 340Nm and fuel consumption of 8.2 litres/100km (Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI Automatic) and 9.1 litres/100km (Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 4MOTION).

Pricing

• Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 103kW Automatic                      R659,400
• Crafter 35 Panel Van 2.0 TDI 103kW Manual 4MOTION         R713,300

Prices include a 2 year/unlimited kilometre warranty, 5 year/120,000km EasyDrive Plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.