Volkswagen has launched the most fuel efficient and low-emission variant of its Transporter panel van, ever.

The Transporter BlueMotion boasts class-leading combined fuel economy of 48.7 mpg and emissions of only 153 g/km — an improvement of 3.9 mpg and 13 g/km on the previous model Transporter BlueMotion.

These gains have been generated by modifications to the engine management system and gearbox, as well as the use of low rolling resistance tyres, a start-stop system, a battery regeneration system and cruise control.

The Transporter BlueMotion is powered by the popular 114 PS 2.0 TDI diesel engine, and could, in theory, be driven for 850 miles on a single tank of fuel.

The new Volkswagen Transporter BlueMotion achieves combined cycle fuel consumption of 48.7mpg

The new Transporter BlueMotion is now available to order from UK VW dealers, with prices starting at £19,245 +VAT.