Van specifications are rising continually, to the point where they come close to many car spec levels. Electric windows, air conditioning, decent stereos (and soundproofing so that you can hear them), comfortable, multi-adjustable seats – the list is endless.
That’s obviously not enough for some van buyers, however, as several manufacturers now offer top-specification van models with sports trim. Vauxhall has offered the Sportive trim level on its vans for several years and Ford went further with a limited edition Transit SportVan.
Volkswagen has joined the party too and has recently launched an updated version of its Transporter Sportline, which offers car-like performance and specification:
- 2.0-litre BiTDI 180 PS diesel engine
- Choice of six-speed manual or 7-speed DSG automatic gearboxes (the latter is usually found in Audi & VW cars)
- Colour coded bumpers and upgraded exterior trim, including a roof spoiler, stainless steel side bars and smoked rear lights
- 18-inch Sportline 5-spoke alloy wheels
- Air-conditioning, a combined multimedia and sat nav system that’s controlled by a 7-inch touchscreen
- ABS, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
The result is a very desirable van from a driver’s point of view, although the combination of high-powered engine and 18-inch low profile tyres is likely to mean that both fuel and tyre bills are higher than you would expect on a van of this size. Still, it will be fun and should not be a big problem for low-mileage users.
The Transporter Sportline is available in both panel van (SWB and LWB) and Kombi versions – visit Volkswagen’s UK van site to learn more.