Volkswagen will introduce its new Crafter commercial vehicle to South Africa during the first half of this year.
Interior:
The new Crafter will come standard with digital instruments such as the Digital Cockpit and a 10.3-inch infotainment display based on the latest modular infotainment matrix (MIB). The visually freestanding Volkswagen system has a newly developed graphical interface and self-extensive technical update for the new Crafter explanatory menu navigation.
The handbrake and the switch for the automatic gearbox have been redesigned, as well as the controls for the light functions, the buttons in the centre console and all vents.
All new Crafter derivatives will henceforth have the following systems on board as standard: digital instrument cluster, multi-function steering wheel, keyless start, electromechanical parking brake with hill-hold, 10.3-inch infotainment with manual air conditioning, inductive charging and acoustic park distance control for the front and rear area.
Exterior:
The new model offers drivers maximum flexibility and the widest model range in its class: up to three different vehicle lengths are available, depending on the model chosen: 5.9m, 6.84m or 7.39m. Panel van variants also come with one of three different roof heights: 2.35m, 2.59m or 2.79m.
Unlike in the previous generation Crafter, the new model is available with front or rear-wheel drive, 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission, plus 4MOTION four-wheel drive. Its maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) ranges from 3.50 tonnes (35 LCV) and 3.88 tonnes (35 MCV) to 5.00 tonnes (50 MCV) and is available in a wide variety of derivatives.
The new Crafter draws on the design structure and quality of its ‘little brother’, the sixth-generation Transporter: while looking dynamic and contemporary, it offers the greatest possible payload, a cargo volume of up to 17.5m3 and a maximum cargo space height of 2.096mm.
Engines:
The line-up will feature new 2.0 TDI engines (103kW, 120kW and 130kW), an 8-speed automatic transmission on the 50 variants as well as a long wheel base alternative on the 35 4MOTION.
Prices:
Crafter 50 2.0 BiTDI 120 kW 6-speed manual Panel Van (R991 000), Crafter 50 2.0 BiTDI 120 kW 6-speed manual Bus Conversion Ready (R991 000), Crafter 50 2.0 BiTDI 120 kW 8-speed automatic Panel Van (R1 021 000), Crafter 50 2.0 BiTDI 120 kW 8-speed automatic Bus Conversion Ready (R1 021 000).
The South African motor industry has lost one of its longstanding business figures following the passing of Jebb McIntosh, the group chief executive of Combined Motor Holdings (CMH), on Monday, 2 November 2026.
“South Africa’s automotive industry has been AGOA’s largest user, but for the sector the preference has already been largely overridden by the 25% Section 232 tariffs applied on vehicles and components. Losing AGOA adds a further cost to an industry that has already absorbed a significant shock.”
Foton has started building vehicles in South Africa, and the first overseas vehicle manufacturing base of BAIC Group is now in Gqeberha.
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