VW has presented the sixth generation of its Transporter van series, also known as the T6, 65 years and around 12 million deliveries after the first model called the Type 2 (the original Beetle was the Type 1) hit the market in 1950.

Retaining the same footprint and boxy-silhouette as its T5 predecessor, VW refreshed the T6’s appearance with sharper exterior lines and details like the available LED headlamps and rear lights, all of which were previewed by 2014’s Tristar concept.

The same study had also afforded us a first look at the T6’s modernized interior with the styling and available tech features such as the infotainment system with the 6.6-inch center console screen mirroring VW’s passenger car lineup.

On the equipment list, you’ll also find a new heated windscreen, an electrically operated tailgate, Front Assist area monitoring system, adaptive cruise control (‘ACC’) and the new adaptive chassis control system called Dynamic Cruise Control (DCC) that offers three driving modes (comfort, normal and sport).

As with all of its predecessors, the new 2016 Transporter was made both for commercial and recreational (passenger) use, with VW to offer plenty of different versions of the van.

Power comes from a completely new generation of 2.0-liter TDI diesel engines codenamed ‘EA288 Nutz’ launched for the EU6 markets that are available with 84PS (83hp), 102PS (101hp), 150PS (148hp) and 204PS (201hp), and a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol offered in two states of tune with 150PS (148hp) or 204PS (201hp).

To celebrate the launch of the new T6, VW will offer a limited edition named “Generation SIX” based on the Multivan Comfortline passenger model and upgraded with LED lights, a chrome package, a choice of four two-tone paintwork finishes with matching interior elements, 18-inch “Disc” alloy wheels, two-tone Alcantara interior and a flurry of standard comfort and safety features.

According to VW, the T6 is priced “on a par with the previous model or slightly lower” depending on the trim, with the commercial version starting at €23,035 plus VAT in Germany, and the Multivan from €29,952.

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