Facelifted 2019 VW Transporter 6.1 Is More Connected And High-Tech Than Ever

Back in February, VW unveiled the facelifted Multivan 6.1 at an event in Wolfsburg and later on the people-mover also made an appearance at the Geneva Motor Show.

Now it’s time for the work-oriented Transporter panel van to get similar updates both inside and outside. The facelifted commercial Transporter debuts today in Munich at Bauma 2019, the world’s largest trade fair for construction machinery and appliances of every kind.

The first photos released by Volkswagen show that the Transporter 6.1 gets the same design updates at the front as the Multivan 6.1, albeit with less chrome on the grille and the bumper. There won’t be any two-tone exteriors either as the Transporter is a workhorse and not a fashion icon.

A new face and an overhauled cabin

Inside, the facelifted van gains access to the third-generation of the modular infotainment matrix (MIB3). Available as an option, the interface uses new web-based functions and services thanks to the integrated SIM card (eSIM). Other updates to the cabin include a 230-volt electric socket by the driver’s seat and a lockable compartment under the double bench seat on the passenger side.

Panel van and Kombi models with bulkhead also get a separate cargo space locking system as standard that can be locked up separately from the cab. Additionally, long items can now be loaded easier by pushing them under the double bench seat on the passenger side. This effectively increases the maximum cargo compartment length from 2,450 mm (96.4 in) to 2,800 mm (110.2 in) for the standard wheelbase model and from 2,900 mm (114.1 in) to 3,300 mm (129.9 in) for the extended wheelbase Transporter.

More standard features and an array of new driver assistance systems

As before, the Transporter will be available in a variety of body variants: panel van, Kombi passenger version, as well as single or double cab pickup. Regardless of the version, VW says the standard equipment has been significantly enhanced. New standard features include power windows, central locking, electrically adjustable heated wing mirrors, new H7 headlights, LED interior lights, and the Composition Audio radio system with Bluetooth hands-free function.

As with the Multivan 6.1, the VW Transporter 6.1 switches from hydraulic to electro-mechanical power steering, making it compatible with an array of driver assistance systems. Available tech includes Lane Assist, Park Assist, side protection, Rear Traffic Alert, and Trailer Assist. A new dynamic Road Sign Display function becomes available in combination with the navigation system. Standard tech includes Cross Wind Assist, Post-Collision Braking System, and Hill Start Assist.

It comes in diesel or electric flavors

The engine lineup consists of four 2.0-liter TDI turbo diesel units in 90 PS (89 hp), 110 PS (109 hp), 150 PS (148 hp), and 199 PS (196 hp) guises. The 150 PS and 199 PS versions will be available with 4Motion all-wheel drive. Besides the diesel models, customers will be able to buy an all-electric Transporter for the first time.

Developed in collaboration with ABT, the electric version is powered by an 82 kW (112 PS/111 hp) electric motor fed by battery packs with capacities of up to 77.6 kWh. With the biggest battery, the e-Transporter will offer more than 400 km (295 miles) of NEDC-rated range and a payload of almost 1.2 tonnes (2,645 lbs).