At A Glance
Volkswagens always make good vans, some of the best available on the market to be exact and the Volkswagen Crafter Cr35 is no exception to the rule. It is a workhorse van and to that end the designers have given the Volkswagen Crafter a workhorse design.
Engines & Spec
Storage options in the cab are particularly impressive on the Volkswagen Crafter and this exhibits the workhorse ethic built into the design. As well as the usual door pockets and drink holders, there is a clipboard in the middle of the dash which is there simply to hold paperwork a driver carries on a day to day basis. The build of the cab is sturdy and tough and there is a nice logic to the layout.
Loading features a length of 4300, a width of 1780 narrowing to 1350 at the wheel arches and a height of 1940. Easily enough space to accommodate large loads or a fair number of Euro pallets and still have room to carry extra equipment such as tools or more materials as needed. A passenger sliding door assists the rear doors to gain entry to the loading area of the van. The Volkswagen Crafter has several well located lashing points to secure loads that are liable to fly around in the back.
On the surface the 109bhp seems to be a tad on the weak side to move a 1235kg payload up and down the country, the 280Nm of torque however soon gets the van up to speed and it is at home moving a load briskly along the motorway or from standing still.
At The Wheel
To drive the Volkswagen Crafter simply does not have an imperfection. No creaks, no roars and everything feels solid. The steering is a good balance of lightness and weight and though it is a long wheel based vehicle, it can get around city streets as well as motorway routes with ease.
Our Verdict
It is difficult to see what is missing on this van. The Volkswagen Crafter features ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution and a highly advanced ESP electronic stability control system which all combine to give the driver good control over the vehicle. The driver also benefits from an airbag and adjustable seating.If a workhorse type van is what you need, it is difficult to see beyond the Volkswagen Crafter.