Transporter is still at the top of its game...

VW’s van remains one of the very best at what it does, writes Alan Anderson

Along with our timeless Transit, Volkswagen’s Transporter is the most recognisable van on the road, enjoying a name that’s even older than the evergreen Ford,datingbacksome70years.

Thefront-wheeldriveTransporterappearstohavechanged remarkably little since the T4 was launched in 1990, replaced by the similar-styled T5 of 2003 which was further revised in 2010, then a couple of years ago, theT6.ButratherlikePorsche’s 911, under an equally familiar skinithasmovedwiththetimes.

Evolution rather than revolution is one of the many keys to the Transporter’s success and the recently revised T6.1 has recently won two prestigious gongs in the influential What Van? 2021 Awards.

It’s easy to see why – Transporter is a quality van at an affordable price. Our test vehicle was right at the bottom end of the price list at a smidge over £24,000 yet the Startline trim, while hardly plush, has most of what’s needed. Electric windows, powered/heated door mirrors (a power folding option costs £162, inc VAT), DAB (radio now with VW App-Connect), LED lighting (now also in the roofconsole)areamongahostof othernewenhancementswhich includesatelescopicallyadjustablesteeringcolumntoppedby a new leather clad multi-functional steering wheel, both improving an already top notch driving environment. More importantly,everythingfeelsquality made and built to last.

An all-electric variant, the

ABT e-Transporter – boasting an80percentchargerateinunder an hour and a battery pack which doesn’t steal cargo space – has recently joined the ranks but most interest lies in the familiar foursome 2-litre TDI diesels; 90bhp, 110bhp, 150bhp and 199bhp all of which have been slightly derated for cleaner emissions.

Nevertheless, our willing 110bhp powerplant more than sufficed although a closer ratio six-speedgearbox–standardon the higher powered versions – would be appreciated for heavier hauling if even as an option.

The T4 set new standards forhowavanhandles,ridesand brakesthreedecadesagoandtoday the T6.1 still ranks as one of theverybest,beingutterlyviceless whatever the load or road. Dependingonversions,a4x4facilityisoptional.Anewaddition to the standard a

nti-lock brakes, electric stability control and Hill Start

Assist wizardry is Crosswind Assist.

At 5.8m3, the Volkswagen is beaten only by Ford’s Transit Custom for space in shortwheelbase form and the cargo bay is well thought out – twin side does costs an additional £780 (inc VAT).

Optional protective ply-lining is also worthwhile at £260 (incVAT)asarefrontandrearreversingsensors(£558)although ifyouoptforthe£1,236Business Pack, rear sensors come as part ofdeal,alongwithair-conditioning and an alarm.

Not unexpectedly, Transporter is premium priced yet the Startline is considerably cheaper than a smaller, if top spec, Caddy Maxi. Compensation comes in the form of excellent resale values thanks to its legendary reputation and bullet-proof build. The Transit is an excellent van but the Transporter will always have the edge for quality and image.