Volkswagen will introduce the new Transporter that is set to launch in the second half of 2025. The new-generation Transporter offers more space, load capacity, more sustainable and economical mobility for all.
What’s new?
The range of new-generation Transporter models available is impressively large. At launch, the new Transporter will be available in a panel van variant with a long wheelbase and two engine as well as gearbox options (2.0 TDI 81kW 6-MT and 2.0 TDI 110kW 8-AUTO).
The new Transporter will be available in Panel Van, Crew Bus, Kombi and Dropside Double Cab derivatives. The Panel Van, Crew Bus and Kombi are planned to be launched in 2025. The Dropside Double Cab will be introduced in 2026.
Interior & dimensions:
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has significantly expanded the standard equipment package for its new Transporter models with LED headlights as standard, including Light Assist, an electronic parking brake with Auto Hold function, 12-inch digital instruments (Digital Cockpit), a 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system to mention a few.
Compared with the preceding model (T6.1), the new Transporter offers significantly more space, higher payload and greater towing capacity.
It is 5 050mm long in the short wheelbase version, which is an increase of 146mm over its predecessor. The wheelbase has been increased by 97mm to 3 100mm.
The Transporter is also available with a long wheelbase extended by 400mm (overall length: 5 450mm). The drop-side version of the Transporter has the long wheelbase as standard. At 2 032mm, the exterior width of all models has increased by 128mm.
Exterior:
The T5 can be seen briefly in the shape of the radiator grille, the T6.1 in the headlights and the T1 in the iconic clarity – but all these features have evolved significantly into a new Volkswagen Transporter look.
The rear of the new Transporter Panel Van, Crew Bus and Kombi has a homogeneous design, giving it the clean look. As with the T6.1, the Panel Van and Crew Bus derivatives can be alternatively ordered with a boot lid or wing door.
Engines:
Three newly developed 2.0-litre four-cylinder for the seventh-generation Transporter develops 81kW, 110kW and 125kW. The 125kW TDI is combined with an eight-speed automatic gearbox with a choice of front wheel drive or 4MOTION all-wheel drive.
Volkswagen has marked 75 years of vehicle production and sales in South Africa with a gala event in Kariega attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa, while also revealing the new Volkswagen Tengo, the third model to be built at the local plant. The Tengo will be produced for the South African and wider markets.
BAIC South Africa used the Festival of Motoring 2026 at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit to highlight both its established range and new energy vehicle ambitions. The event marked the first public appearance of ARCFOX in South Africa, alongside the unveiling of BAIC’s X55 Plug‑in Hybrid Electric Vehicle.
South Africa’s automotive parts industry has experienced significant contraction in recent years, with official data from the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) confirming widespread job losses and company closures.
Advertisement
Advertisement
You can't buy happiness but you can buy cars and that's kind of the same thing.
Unknown
SVI Engineering has introduced a new protection package for the Land Rover Defender, adding the model to its list of vehicles available with the firm’s SVI Lite solution.
Ford South Africa has broadened the Everest line-up for 2026, introducing new models and updates to strengthen choice and capability. The addition of the Everest Active, enhancements to Sport, Wildtrak and Platinum, and the upcoming Tremor ensure the SUV range caters to a wider audience.
Volkswagen has opened pre-orders for the second-generation T-Roc, ahead of its official launch in September 2026. The compact SUV arrives with updated styling, improved interior quality and advanced technology, strengthening Volkswagen’s T-SUV line-up.
