BMW iX3 crowned World Car of the Year 2026 as EVs lead the way
The BMW iX3 has been named World Car of the Year 2026, with the announcement made at the New York International Auto Show on 1 April.
- Industry News
- 2 April 2026
Volkswagen’s new Transporter offers more space, more body styles, a higher payload and greater economy, claims the manufacturer.
What is it?
The Transporter is Volkswagen’s large people carrier that does it in style and comfort like none other.
Engine:
The new-generation Transporter range is powered by a 2.0 TDI engine, offered in three power outputs, 81kW, 110kW and 125kW paired with a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing a versatile range to suit different driving needs.
Interior:
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has significantly expanded the standard equipment package for its new Transporter models compared to the predecessor versions. The following features now come as standard: LED headlights, including Light Assist, an electronic parking brake with Auto Hold function, 12-inch digital instruments (Digital Cockpit), an infotainment system, a multifunction steering wheel, Keyless Start system, rain sensor and Lane Assist lane keeping system.
Compared to the predecessor model (T6.1), the Transporter offers significantly more space, higher payload and greater towing capacity. The stowage volume of the panel van with long wheelbase and standard roof has increased to 6.8 m3. The maximum payload has also increased to up to 1.33 tonnes. Volkswagen has also increased the maximum trailer weight, which can now be as much as 2.8 tonnes on a braked trailer (previously 2.5 tonnes).



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 LED headlamps are an important style element, helping to make the new Transporter an unmistakable face in the crowd.
The side section shows the clean lines typical of a VW van. Similar to the T6.1, the upper contour of the headlights has been extended as a line into the side section, continuing through to the rear. Above this is the already mentioned Bulli line. This divides the upper and lower areas of the body and is the designers’ way of paying homage to the very first generation of the Transporter.
The rear of the new Transporter Panel Van, Crew Bus and Kombi has a homogeneous design, giving it the clean look typical of a VW van. Although completely redesigned and technically revamped, the shape of the tail lights with LED dots towards the sides creates a stylistic bridge to the T5.
The new Transporter is available in Crew Bus, Kombi and Panel Van. The Panel Van and Kombi models were introduced in September 2025 with Crew Bus and Kombi Style planned for local introduction in October 2026. The 125kW TDI is always combined with an eight-speed automatic gearbox with a choice of front wheel drive or 4MOTION® all-wheel drive (model dependent).



Prices:
Panel Van 2.0 TDI 81kW 4x2 Panel Van Manual LWB |
R770 000 |
Kombi 2.0 TDI 125kW 4x2 Basic Auto SWB (8-seater) |
R1 081 700 |
Kombi 2.0 TDI 125kW 4x2 Commerce Auto SWB (8-seater) |
R1 055 200 |
Kombi 2.0 TDI 125kW 4x2 Life Auto SWB (8-seater) |
R1 116 845 |
Kombi 2.0 TDI 125kW 4x2 EDITION Auto SWB (8-seater) |
R1 167 400 |
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