2025 Volkswagen Transporter: Everything You Need To Know
The 2025 Volkswagen Transporter receives a major overhaul for its seventh-generation iteration boasting improved versatility, multiple configurations, a diverse array of powertrain options and an upgraded interior – here is everything you need to know.
Few commercial vehicles are as synonymous with the humble van as the Volkswagen Transporter, a moniker that has been with us since 1979. Before that, of course, we had the VW Type 2 – better known as the truly iconic VW Camper Van – as one of motoring’s most instantly recognisable silhouettes.
More than 45 years on, the VW Transporter is still here with an update it hopes will continue to resonate with business and fleet customers to lure them away from tempting rival medium van propositions like the Ford Transit Custom, Vauxhall Vivaro, Citroen Dispatch and Mercedes-Benz Vito.
Does The 2025 Volkswagen Transporter Look Familiar?
Yes, the eagle-eyed among you may well recognise the new VW Transporter is developed on a platform shared with the latest generation Ford Transit Custom, which was launched last year.
Part of a wider co-operation between the two manufacturing powerhouses that has already seen a collaboration on a handful of passenger cars, it means the Transporter and Transit share the same underpinnings, while there are hints towards their relation on the surface too.
As such, those familiar with the specification and features of the Transit will notice some parallels here too, including the diesel and plug-in hybrid engine options, not to mention its electric version. You’ll also spot an identical interior and dashboard design between the two models.
To split them apart, Volkswagen has given the front-end a once-over to bear traits of the retro-themed VW ID.Buzz Cargo, while it has tuned the dynamics to offer a different handling characteristics.
2025 VW Transporter: Dimensions, Trims & Body Styles
- Length: 5050mm SWB, 5450mm LWB
- Height: 1978mm or 2480mm
- Width: 2275mm
- Wheelbase: 3100mm SWB, 3500 LWB
- Payload: Between 767kg and 1234kg
- Cargo Capacity: 5800 litres SWB, 6800 litres LWB
The 2025 VW Transporter has grown in size fairly significantly in that it is 146mm longer than its predecessor, which translates to being 61mm longer in the load compartment. It means the load compartment is up to 5,800 litres, rising to 6,800 litres on longer wheelbase models.
Maximum payload is also up with 2.8 tonnes available or 2.3 tonnes for the eTransporter.
This is all without affecting the height, which remains under two metres to ensure the Transporter can be manoeuvred easily in multi-storey car parks.
The Transporter can be specified with a short or long wheelbase, which reflects in a payload up to 1234kg for the latter of the two body styles.
Three trim levels will be available from launch: Commerce, Commerce Plus and Commerce Pro.
2025 VW Transporter: Engine, Performance & Electric
- 2.0-litre Diesel (108bhp, 148bhp or 168bhp)
- 2.5-litre Petrol Plug-In Hybrid Electric (230bhp)
- 83kWh Electric (100kW, 134bhp or 160kW, 216bhp)
VW will ensure a full range of engines and powertrain options are available for the Transporter, including three versions of its venerable 2.0-litre diesel and a pure electric variant. A plug-in hybrid version will arrive later this year.
The diesel will likely remain the most popular option with the Transporter offered in 108bhp, 148bhp and 168bhp guise, each of which have the choice of manual and automatic gearboxes.
The plug-in hybrid mates a 2.5-litre petrol engine with a 11.8kWh battery and should be able to complete around 26 miles on electric power alone.
The electric VW eTransporter is equipped with an 83kWh battery with a 136hp or 218hp motor, though a 286hp version will be made available in time. It should be good for a range of just over 200 miles.
2025 VW Transporter: Specification & Features
The 2025 VW Transporter has probably undergone its most significant overhaul inside with a re-designed dashboard that integrates smart connectivity features and improved ergonomics.
A new multi-functional steering wheel is flanked by a large 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system that houses DAB+ and wireless App Connect, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
It also comes with a 12-inch instrument cluster that can be fully customised according to the drivers’ needs.
It is also equipped with a wider array of advanced safety and driver assistance features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking to detect collisions and Lane Assist to react to any wavering when driving, plus Dynamic Road Sign Display and Intelligent Speed Assist to ensure you’re driving legally.
It also comes with a standard rear parking sensor, while Commerce Plus and Pro trims add front parking sensors and a rear-view camera. There is also the option of a 360-degree camera.
The flagship eTransporter Commerce Pro adds Adaptive Cruise Control, a heated windscreen and Blind Spot Assistt. Both Pro and Plus eTransporter trims come with a standard heat pump to ensure you are getting the best efficiency from the battery for maximised range.
When Can I Buy The 2025 VW Transporter On Vansdirect?
The order books for the 2025 VW Transporter are open now with deliveries due in the Spring.
