Volkswagen has introduced the latest iteration of its iconic Transporter, the Sportline, aiming to bridge the gap between a robust commercial vehicle and a stylish, performance-oriented car. Positioned as the flagship of the Transporter range, this new model incorporates design elements reminiscent of the popular Golf GTI, seeking to attract a broader audience from traditional tradespeople to the growing community of 'vanlife' enthusiasts.
The Sportline distinguishes itself with a host of external upgrades that give it a more assertive stance. These include 19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, redesigned bumpers, side skirts, a rear spoiler, and advanced IQ Light Matrix adaptive headlights. The vehicle also features lowered Eibach suspension, tinted glass, and gloss black finishes for the roof rails, door mirror caps, and front grille, topped with a signature red stripe. Inside, the GTI influence continues with black 'eco leather' upholstery and red stitching, a heated steering wheel, metal scuff plates, and ambient lighting, all adorned with Sportline logos.
Prospective buyers have a choice of powertrains, including a 170hp 2.0-litre diesel, a 218hp electric, and a more powerful 286hp electric option. The Transporter Sportline is available in both short and long wheelbases, with prices starting from £51,105 for the panel van and £53,085 for the passenger-carrying Kombi, both excluding VAT. These figures represent a considerable premium over standard models, with the next trim down, the Commerce Pro S, being nearly £10,000 cheaper, and basic versions around £20,000 less.
For dedicated Volkswagen van aficionados, a limited-edition Transporter Sportline 75 is also available. This special model commemorates 75 years of the Transporter's history, featuring an exclusive Moss Green paint finish, unique 'Sportline 75' mirror caps, green stitching, and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. Only 75 units will be produced, each with an individually numbered build plaque, priced at £64,552 for the panel van and £66,928 for the Kombi. The T7 Transporter shares its underlying architecture with the Ford Transit Custom, Britain's best-selling van, meaning a familiar dashboard layout with a 12-inch digital driver display and a 13-inch central touchscreen.
Despite its sporty aspirations, the Sportline maintains the Transporter's renowned versatility. Payload and towing capacities vary by powertrain and wheelbase, with a short-wheelbase diesel panel van offering a maximum payload of 1,168kg and a towing capacity of up to 2,800kg. The long-wheelbase electric Kombi can carry 693kg and tow 2,000kg. The physical load space remains excellent, capable of accommodating an 8x4 ply board or three Euro pallets, though a high roof option is not available unlike its Ford counterpart.
Source: CityAM