2024 Volkswagen Crafter: What’s new?

Volkswagen have updated their award-winning Crafter, but rather than the external LCV facelifts we have become accustomed to, this time it’s what’s inside that counts.

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That seems to be the mindset behind the 2024 update to the Volkswagen Crafter. And we don’t think that’s a bad thing, as you can still count on the reliability, comfort, and practicality across the large LCV’s various wheelbase and roof configurations which have landed various industry awards. 

Even better, the impressive load carrying capabilities remain untouched, boasting up to 18.4m³ in the optimised payload area. That said, we will admit that some visual changes to the exterior might have been nice, just for a little bit of that new van feel.

In the cockpit

So, what has actually changed with the new Crafter? Well, although the cab was already rated as one of the best on the market, featuring solid build quality and comfy, ergonomic design (with plenty of cup holders — always appreciated), Volkswagen have spotted room for improvement.

Step inside and the analogue instruments are gone, replaced by a digital dashboard which can be tailored to the driver’s preference. Standing tall amongst the wireless phone charging station and multiple USB-C sockets is the new 10.3-inch touch screen infotainment display, or the optional 12.9-inch version if you opt for the integrated Sat Nav system. 

Artificial Intelligence is truly everywhere these days. And even if you’re not ready for one of the AI fridges or toasters you can buy now, using the Crafter’s new ChatGPT digital voice assistant to adjust settings or set destinations does make a lot more sense to us. All the more tempting since the physical temperature and volume controls have been integrated into the display — a pleasant chat with your van, or a smudgy fingerprinted screen? That’s a no-brainer we reckon.

The interior design offered by the Crafter has been a strong point since the second generation dropped in 2017, and this has only been improved by the electronic handbrake and gearstick being moved to open up more space. This little bit of Feng Shui even means yet another cup holder has been squeezed into the automatic variant.

Safety first

Strong design and ease of use often go hand-in-hand, and under the skin the new Crafter offers a “generous” range of assists as standard to ensure this is the case. There’s auto-emergency braking capable of spotting cyclists and pedestrians, lane assist, dynamic road sign display on the dash as seen on the techy ID. Buzz, adjustable speed limiters, and parking sensors both front and back, to name a few. 

Spend a few more quid and you can add an advanced anti-theft alarm system to lock down any extra-precious cargo or tools, additional air-con settings, cruise control, and even a comfier seat with lumbar support and arm rests —  not quite as luxurious as the decadent Toyota Century SUV, but not too shabby for a commercial vehicle.

Under the bonnet

As a mere facelift, there has been no big engine reshuffle under the bonnet. This means that the UK will continue to be without an electric version, as VW stick with tried and tested 2.0-litre TDI powertrains. The 3-tonne van (CR30) is locked to a 138 hp diesel with manual six-speed gearbox and front wheel drive. The 3.5-tonne van (CR35) adds a 174 hp engine with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive options, as well as a rear-wheel drive 160 hp variant, all of which offer optional eight-speed automatic gearboxes.

Although sticking to known quantity engines boosts reliability, there is a catch. The Crafter’s fuel efficiency has improved over the years, but these familiar yet thirsty options remain unlikely to reach the 40 mpg and above needed to stand up against the likes of a sparing  Ford Transit or Fiat Ducato. However, in order to give it a fighting chance, it looks like VW may have sat the Crafter on Continental Van Contact Eco tyres, designed to extract maximum range through an innovative and efficient tread pattern. 

The updated Crafter is here from August 2024, and while it may just be receiving tweaks in preparation for the next generation, progress is progress, no matter how small. Available from £45,660 OTR, is the new interior and tech enough to draw you in?

Hero image credit: VW