Speedier deliveries are to come with VW launching its new sporty Transporter Sportline variant.
To those who are eternally complaining that their deliveries are always delayed, this first world problem might soon be a thing of the past as Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has recently launched a new Sportline variant for its Transporter T6.1.
The sportiest trim level of the recently updated Transporter, this Sportline variant could in essence be thought of as equivalent to the GTI model for the VW van world. This is especially considering that this new van features various ‘unique sporty styling additions’, with the most prominent perhaps being the red contrast strip on the front grille and the sporty front bumper.
Moving down the side meanwhile, gloss black 18-inch alloy wheels sit on suspension that are 30 mm lower than stock on this Sportline variant. This is complemented by illuminated side bars, and then topped off with a cheeky roof spoiler to further accentuate its sporty styling.
Now for the van driver who wishes for something even sportier, the Sportline Black Edition (seen here) would probably be the one for you. That is because this particular step up from the normal Sportline variant adds not only unique alloy wheels, matte black side bars and ‘Black Edition’ decals for a meaner look, but more importantly it brings with it an Eibach coilover suspension setup all round for even better handling when out on your delivery runs.
Having said that though, while these handling improvements may shave some seconds round the corners, there should not be any time gained on the straights as the Sportline variants retains an identical 2.0 TDI turbocharged four-cylinder and 7-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission powertrain combination as to be found in the existing Transporter. Nevertheless, this 204 PS power plant still has the guts to haul this van from 0-100 km/h in a rather respectable 8.9 seconds, and on to an incredibly high top speed (for a van) of 203 km/h.
Stepping inside the Sportline, a Nappa leather and suede trim interior with honeycomb stitching branded with the Sportline logo supposedly gives this workhorse a ‘premium yet sporty feel’ to match the exterior. This top-of-the-line Transporter also benefits from added standard equipment like heated front seats and a digital instrument cluster.
Moreover, those who have opted for the Black Edition gains a Sportline gift box, tinted rear windows (for the Kombi variant) and a 9.2-inch Discover Pro Media Navigation central infotainment touchscreen. Both variants however feature DAB radio, climatic air conditioning, front windscreen heating as standard.
Speaking of standard, both Sportline variants come with Adaptive Cruise Control with City Emergency Braking, High Beam Assist on its LED headlights, a reversing camera as well as front and rear parking sensors from the factory. Other passive safety kit and an anti-theft alarm system with interior monitoring are also standard fitment on all Transporters.
Available as both long and short wheelbase panel vans and Kombi minibuses, the Transporter Sportline will retail from (a rather steep) £42,940 (RM 245,000) when it is made available to order in Europe beginning from late March. The Black Edition models on the other hand are only available short wheelbase format, with prices starting at an even steeper £45,140 (RM 258,000).
PRESS RELEASE: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has launched the new Transporter T6.1 Sportline, with prices starting from £42,940.
The Sportline, which is available to order from late March ahead of deliveries from July, is available in short or long wheelbase versions, and as either a Kombi or panel van. It features a range of unique sporty styling additions and technology upgrades, ensuring the perfect combination of sport and comfort.
Design
The Transporter 6.1 Sportline comes with a host of sporty exterior and interior styling details. The front features a red contrast grille strip and a new bumper, while at the rear there is an eye-catching new spoiler, all of which are exclusive to the Sportline range. The suspension has also been lowered by 30mm, and illuminated side bars added.
The sporty design extends to the choice of wheels, with 18” alloys available in a gloss black. The Sportline also debuts a range of new stand out metallic colours for the vehicle in Indium Grey, Fortana Red, Ravenna Blue and Copper Bronze giving the vehicles a distinct premium edge.
The interior of the new T6.1 Sportline matches its premium yet sporty exterior, featuring a luxury Nappa leather and suede trim with honeycomb stitching branded with the Sportline logo.
A Sportline Black Edition will also be available, priced from £45,140, offering an exclusive alloy wheel colour, matt black side bars, Eibach coilover suspension, ‘Black Edition’ decals, 90% rear window tint on Kombi models, and a Sportline gift box.
Comfort & Technology
The new Sportline range also offers the latest comfort and convenience features, building on the range-topping Highline trim. This includes heated front seats and a cutting-edge digital cockpit – available on a panel van or Kombi for the first time – in addition to the DAB radio, climatic air conditioning, front windscreen heating, and a Discover Media Navigation system. This is upgraded to Discover Media Pro Navigation, featuring a 9.2” colour touchscreen, for Black Edition models.
The advanced technology integrated in the T6.1 Sportline is there to assist drivers if needed, ensuring a smooth and comfortable drive. A rear-view camera, LED headlights with high beam assist, front and rear parking sensors, Adaptive Cruise Control with City Emergency Braking and an anti-theft alarm system with interior monitoring are all specified as standard.
Engine & Performance
The Transporter’s range-topping 2.0-litre TDI 204 PS engine with 7-speed DSG gearbox is standard across all T6.1 Sportline models. This is capable of 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds with a top speed of 126mph.
Pricing
Pricing for the Sportline starts at £42,940 for the 2.0 TDI 204 PS short wheelbase panel van, with the long wheelbase panel van priced from £43,795. Short wheelbase variants of the Kombi are priced from £46,450* while long wheelbases begin at £47,305*. The Black Edition, available as a short wheelbase panel van or Kombi, is priced from £45,140 and £49,450, respectively.
