VW Crafter is the new fuel saving grafter
Published 27 Jul 2011 09:30
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THE new Volkswagen Crafter officially arrives in Volkswagen van centre showrooms on August 1. The big feature of this vehicle is its fuel efficiency giving up to 38.7 mpg,
Using Volkswagen's latest 2.0-litre TDI common rail engine, already proven in its new Transporter and Amarok models, the Crafter is available with power outputs of 109, 136, 143 and 163 PS, with BlueMotion Technology models offering further savings in fuel costs and emissions, yet delivering the same or higher levels of torque at lower engine speeds than the previous five-cylinder, 2.5-litre BlueTDI engine.
For example, the new Crafter CR35 2.0-litre TDI 163 PS BlueMotion Technology, medium wheelbase panel van achieves 29% better fuel economy on the combined cycle than the previous 2.5-litre BlueTDI engine with the same power output. This is the equivalent of up to eight miles further per gallon, which could add over 130 miles to the range of the 75 litre fuel tank.
The new engine is also lighter, and this weight saving not only helps the improvements in fuel economy, but also increases payloads by up to 100 kg.
Emissions have dropped by between 10% and nearly 20%. For example, the CR35 2.0-litre TDI 163 PS BlueMotion Technology model has carbon dioxide emissions of 199 g/km, compared to 258 g/km for the previous engine with the same power output. The new Crafter no longer uses AdBlue to achieve these low (EuroV) emissions, yet still qualifies for EEV (Enhanced Environmentally friendly Vehicle) status as standard.
Over 700 staff from Volkswagen Van Centres have already attended an intensive training course for the new Crafter, including driving it against its key rivals, and are said to be enthusiastic about its strong performance, improved refinement and class-beating fuel economy.
This is one to be considered for anyone in need of a large van, window van, chassis cab or a conversion such as a tipper, dropside and Luton body. The range comprises three wheelbases, three roof heights, four body lengths and three gross vehicle weights of 3.0, 3.5 and 5.0 tonnes.
Prices, ex-VAT start at £20,450 for a CR30 2.0-litre TDI 109 PS, short wheelbase panel van or from £309 a month (plus VAT and initial rental) with the latest contract and finance lease offer from Volkswagen commercial vehicles finance.
Full details of the new Crafter, and Volkswagen Van Centre locations, are available from www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk or by calling 0800 717131.
This article appeared in Royal Borough Observer 27 Jul 11
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