First details of the new Volkswagen Transporter have been released prior to its launch later in the year.

The new model has a more refined exterior design plus advances in comfort, safety and refinement.

Lower running costs are also promised, thanks to a new range of common rail Euro 5-compliant TDI engines offering lower CO2 emissions and improved economy by an average of 10% across the range.

The Transporter is Volkswagen’s best-selling model in the UK and worldwide. More than one million of the current model have been sold since introduction in 2003, making a total of more than 10 million since production started in March 1950 as the fondly-named ‘VeeDub Splitty’.

A new exterior features more aerodynamic door mirrors and a similar front grille and headlight design to that seen on the latest Volkswagen passenger cars. 

Under the bonnet goes a new range of four 2.0-litre four-cylinder common rail TDI engines, with power outputs of 84bhp and 162lb-ft of torque from 1,500 rpm, 102bhp with 184lb-ft from 1,500 rpm, 140 bhp with 250lb-ft at 1,750 rpm and 180bhp with 295lb-ft from 1,500 rpm.

Volkswagen says the new engines are quieter, more economical and more efficient.

There is also a gearshift recommendation display for greener driving.
Internal changes make the new Transporter more comfortable and convenient with enhancements to quality and equipment including features from the latest Volkswagen passenger cars, such as new three-spoke steering wheels, new instruments and the latest audio and touchscreen navigation systems.

New options available include a seven-speed DSG gearbox, which will also be available later in 2010 with the 4Motion all-wheel drive system, plus Volkswagen’s Side Assist lane change assistant, which uses LED lights in the door mirrors to warn if there is anything in the vehicle’s blind-spot, Rear Assist reversing camera, and a new TMD (Tyre Monitor Display) which can detect any decrease in tyre pressure.

Safety features include ESP traction control, hill-start assistant and an emergency braking system which automatically puts on the hazard warning lights, which will all be standard across the range.

Prices and specifications of the new Transporter range will be released closer to launch.