The 4Motion is the four-wheel drive version of the Volkswagen large panel van, the Crafter. The Volkswagen Crafter 4Motion competes with other 4×4 vans, such as the Ford Transit AWD, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4×4 and Iveco Daily 4×4, and offers a more practical alternative to the traditional pickup truck.
Volkswagen Crafter 4Motion: Model History
Volkswagen has been selling four-wheel-drive versions of its large panel vans for generations, including the popular LT 4×4 of the 1970s and 1980s. More recently, the German manufacturer has offered 4Motion technology on its small and medium vans, the Caddy and Transporter, although specialist 4×4 converter Achleitner did offer a 4×4 version of the previous generation Crafter.
Now though, Volkswagen has ended its relationship with Mercedes-Benz, which built the Crafter for Volkswagen, and has built a brand-new state-of-the-art production facility in Poland. This means it is now able to offer 4×4 versions of the Crafter that are built in-house, straight from the factory line.
Volkswagen Crafter 4Motion: Engine and Driveline
Under the bonnet is the newly-developed 2.0-litre TDi engine, which is inclined 8.0-degrees towards the grille to free up some space for the cab. There is just one power rating of 177hp, with peak power available at 3,600rpm. Torque is rated at 410Nm, available between 1,500 and 2,500rpm.
The engine is transversely mounted (same as the front-wheel-drive models, but different to the longitudinally mounted rear-wheel-drive models) and is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a super-smooth eight-speed AQ450 torque converter automatic.
The permanent all-wheel-drive system comes with a high level of active safety and uses Haldex coupling, which has been tried and tested in a wide range of Volkswagen Group vehicles. The Haldex coupling is fitted on the rear axle and distributes the drive between the front and rear axles, depending on which has the more traction. An optional rear diff-lock is also available.
Volkswagen Crafter 4Motion: Panel Van Practicality
Due to the limited size of the market, there are very few different variants of the Crafter 4Motion in the UK. Four-wheel drive versions have a raised chassis and extra suspension travel to tackle the more challenging terrain but, apart from the increased loading height, there is very little difference between 4Motion or regualr 2WD models.
In terms of panel vans, there will be two load lengths (3,450mm and 4,300mm) and two roof heights (1,832mm and 1,961mm). For conversions, there are two wheelbases and a choice of single or double cabs. Single cab dropside and tipper bodies, which are expected to make up a large proportion of sales, measure 2,030mm wide and 3,400mm (short wheelbase) and 4,300mm (long wheelbase) in length.
Payloads are rated up to 1,542kg on the medium wheelbase panel van, 1,132kg on the single cab dropside and 992kg on the single cab tipper.
Volkswagen Crafter 4Motion: Ride and Comfort
The raised seating position and low-lying windows provides great all-round visibility and, while the dashboard layout maybe a little dull and uninspiring, it’s very practical and there are plenty of useful storage spaces dotted around the cab.
For the first time, electromechanical steering has been introduced into a large van, which lends itself well to the different driving environments; light and responsive in the city, and less sensitive on the motorway.
In the bends, the Crafter composes itself really well thanks to the firmer suspension. There is very little body roll, although divots and bumps are felt a bit more readily than on other vans of this size.
Volkswagen Crafter 4Motion: Price and Availability
The Volkswagen Crafter 4Motion comes with a £5,000 to £7,000 premium on top of the standard Crafter, with prices starting at £34,585 plus VAT for the CR35, medium wheelbase chassis cab, and £35,870 plus VAT for the medium roof panel van. Prices extend to £40,120 plus VAT for the Highline, long wheelbase, model.
It is available now from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles dealers.
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