Volkswagen Crafter (2013 - ) van review

Volkswagen Crafter (2013 -     ) expert review

Volkswagen Crafter 2.0 109bhp MWB BlueMotion

By Dan Tye

Verdict 4.6 out of 5

“VW’s largest panel van is ideal to shift large loads over long distances. It does tough jobs but it oozes a quality feeling in the cabin that other large panel vans can only dream of giving.”

 

1. Exterior

The Crafter comes off the same production line as Mercedes-Benz’s Sprinter but it has a differnet front end and VW’s own engines and suspension. The Crafter was upgraded with a softer-looking front in 2012 and a choice of 2.0-litre engines with either 109, 136 or 163bhp. Our test van was the 109bhp one with a medium wheelbase and BlueMotion badge which means it gives 37.2mpg and a 199g/km of CO2. Ours came in pearlescent paint which costs a further £1,195.  The price isn’t bargain (about two grand more than a Citroen Relay Enterprise) but this van is pure quality. Nothing about it feels cheap or hashed together.

Our rating: 5

 

2. Interior

It’s quite a step up into the cab and inside the front it’s very roomy and very comfortable. It also looks reassuringly VW and anyone who has driven their cars, will instantly recognise the attention to detail in the design. The Crafter looks so much better on the inside than the Transit, Trafic and Vivaro.

Our rating: 4

 

3. Practicality

Perfectly practical. The side door is huge compared to other panel vans on the market and the double rear doors open up to reveal a cavernous load space. 

Our rating: 5

 

4. Performance

A 2.0 litre engine in a big beast like the Crafter might sound like a mistake but even the 109bhp version still pulls extremely well. Go for the 163bhp version and it lugs any load along effortlessly. There always seems to be more than enough torque in any situation.

Our rating: 4

 

5. Ride and Handling

The power steering is very light and even though the roof is high, it certainly doesn’t sway or roll round corners. It’s a dream to drive.

Our rating: 5 

 

6. Running costs

We achieved 37mpg on our test ride which is pretty great going for a van of this size. Expect VW quality throughout so apart from servicing bills, you should get by with trouble free running. 

Our rating: 4

 

7. Cargo area

In the high roof format you can stand upright without bending your knees which is a really comfortable way to work. You can get plywood liners in the rear but this costs an extra £330.

Our rating: 5

 

8. Safety

ESP is included in the price of this while it is usually an extra on other vans, so that’s a big plus point for the Crafter. It also comes with ABS and TCS and airbags. You feel safe. And the brakes are very sharp too.

Our rating: 5

 

9. Equipment

In basic trim, the Crafter is superb but you can also diop your toe into VW’s huge accessories list to add things like air-conditioning, Bluetooth compatibility and a seven-inch screen. 

Our rating: 4

 

10. Why buy?

Because you need a monster van that can run up and down motorways and keep you safe and extremely comfortable in the cabin. 

Our rating: 5