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VW CRAFTER
Page 22
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If Crafter looks similar to Mercedes-Benz's all-conquering Sprinter then that shouldn't come as a shock. The vehicles share a number of components and are built in the same plant.
The two vans and chassis cabs are powered by different engines, though. and while Sprinter is on offer with a fully automatic gearbox, VW favours a semi-auto instead.
With a huge spread of lengths, heights and weights, aggressive styling and the ability to transport anywhere from getting on for a tonne to north of 2.6 tonnes, Crafter shares Sprinter's superb build quality. It rides and handles well, too.
The two most powerful engines in the range offer ample performance, and while all the engines can sound a little harsh under acceleration, that is unlikely to bother most drivers and operators.
Crafter's sturdy build imposes payload limitations, and that may be a drawback for some. If that is a problem you reckon you can live with, though, then nip down to your local VW dealer and book a test drive.