Four-engine choice for VW IT
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by Charles Young • Volkswagen has released list prices for its new LT panel van range, now on UK sale. The LT spans the weight range from 2.8 to 4.6 tonnes with wheelbases from 3.00m to 4.03m. The result of a joint venture, it shares the same platform as MercedesBenz' Sprinter. There will be a choice of four engines: only the petrol model is shared with (and supplied by) Mercedes. Currently only the five-cylinder turbodiesel engine is available but this will be joined by the four-cylinder petrol engine in December. Next year operators will have the choice of a four-cylinder 2.8-litre turbo-dieselsourced from MWM—and the five-cylinder naturally aspirated diesel.
A number of differences distinguish the LT from the Sprinter: externally, it has different headlights, bumper and door panels. There is an all-stainless steel exhaust and the engine mountings are different—which VW claims makes it quieter.
The five-cylinder turbodiesel, rated at 101hp (75kW), also gives the range more choice than the Mercedes which has a jump in the power rating from 80hp to 122hp.
Another difference is the choice of bodies: as well as panel vans, chassis-cabs and personnel-carriers, the LT will be available with a double-cab option— although the rear door is on the right-hand side, inconvenient for UK operators. Other options will include a dropside body and four-wheel drive, and the Hanover plant is investigating a three-way tipper version.
The LT35 fitted with the five-cylinder turbo-diesel engine is 4300 cheaper than the equivalent Sprinter, although Mercedes includes ABS as standard.
Driving impressions
CM drove the laden LT35 with VW's 101hp (75kW) five-cylinder 2.5-litre TDI turbo-diesel: this seems to be an ideal installation. It pulled well up the steep hills at Mil!brook testing ground and was easily capable of illegal cruising speeds.
The ride andlhandling were fine and Complemented by well-judged power steering. Our major complaint was with the brakes which, considering they're discs all-round, didn't feel up to the job. The pedal travel is too long and almost caught us out on our drive through surrounding villages.
CM has also driven Volkswagen's Transporter fitted with the same 23litre turbo-diesel engine as the LT35 and this combination certainly makes rapid progress—acceleration is noticeable even in fifth gear. Barring a slight niggle with the gearstick, which requires too much of a stretch, this is a very competent vehicle.