Does four-wheel-drive add anything to the Volkswagen Transporter experience? CM puts it through its paces to find out
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Words: George Barrow / Images: Tom Lee We’ve tested the most powerful, we’ve tested the most sensible, we’ve even tried the Transporter with an automatic gearbox, but never before has a four-wheel-drive model crossed our path. Until the 138hp 4Motion that is.
Powered by the same 2-litre engine found in our cherished long-term DSG model, the 4Motion packs a handy 138hp and 340Nm of torque, but comes with a ive-speed manual gearbox rather than the DSG’s seven-speed auto. Window van, chassis cab and panel van models are available with a choice of low, medium or high roofs. However, window and chassis cab models only get the choice of the 138hp engine, while panel van models can also be itted with the range-topping 178hp unit.
Load volume remains
unchanged at 5.8m3 – rising to 9.3m3 for long-wheelbase
variants – but payload is slightly down on the DSG at 986kg. Visually, there is nothing to differentiate the 4Motion from other models which have refreshed tail lights, bonnet and grille. All Transporters now also get aerodynamic mirrors and new daytime running lights. From the options list, our 4Motion test vehicle gets a rubber loor covering (£125), an upgraded MP3 CD/radio with AUX-in (£75), leathertrimmed gear knob gaiter and multifunction steering wheel (£470), rear parking sensors (£195), 16-inch ‘Miyato’ alloys (£505), and the SE Pack (£1,225), which includes a solid bulkhead, alarm, electric mirrors and air conditioning.
On the road
Manual and automatic gearboxes are available on the 4Motion range, but you have to go to the highest output 178hp model to get the DSG option, which meant our test model came equipped with a ive-speed manual gearbox.
While CM has tested both variants in a number of different models, the combination of manual gearbox and four-wheel-drive makes the best use of the VW’s 138hp engine, smooth transmission and capable chassis. The automatic gearbox might take the hassle out of driving by delivering a smooth shift in a predictable and, when needed, powerful manner, but the manual adds character to the experience with its smooth action as well as increasing driver involvement – a beneit when off-road.
The suspension set-up in the Transporter range is well balanced, and we’ve previously noted its ability to smooth out bumpy roads and deliver an engaging, informed drive. Despite carrying a fraction more weight than other models – the 4WD system adds around 100kg – the 4Motion maintains the same excellent standards, but delivers an even more engaging drive than the regular panel van thanks to the power acting upon all four wheels.
In regular conditions, 90% of the power is transferred through the front wheels, with just 10% diverted to the rear axle. However, the Haldex coupling will divert power to whatever wheels are thought to have the most grip, which means up to 100% of the power can be channelled through the rear wheels. The coupling has also changed from being mechanically controlled to an electronically-controlled unit, which VW claims is faster, more sensitive and quieter than in the previous generation.
Productivity
In keeping with previous tests, the 4Motion coped well with our Kent test route, recording 34.8mpg and 37.9mpg for laden and unladen tests, respectively – slightly down on the 178hp model’s igures of 36.4mpg and 42.0mpg, but up on the laden and unladen results of 33.2mpg and 35.9mpg for the 178hp DSG. As we said before, the 4WD system does add extra weight, which means the Transporter 4Motion’s maximum payload scrapes in at just below one tonne at 986kg. Without that weight onboard, the Transporter demonstrates great power and speed, but when fully loaded the ride quality deteriorates and the engine struggles in lower gears, particularly when starting off.
Access to the loadspace is improved by the single sliding side door that is standard across the range, while loads can be secured using the six load-lashing points. Extra protection is also provided by the half-height ply lining and the optional soft rubber looring in the rear that helps grip loose loads.
Cab comfort
Overall, the Transporter is a comfortable van to be in for long periods of time, due to the fully adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel. Longer-legged occupants will ind that seat travel is limited and unlike the DSG, which made do without a left foot rest, the 4Motion thankfully has a small perch. Storage is adequate with a modest-sized, lockable glovebox, large door bins and a number of small pockets for coins and other odds and ends. The Transporter still lacks Bluetooth functionality and creature comforts are modest, with most coming from the options lists, including air conditioning, parking sensors and leather cab trim. ■