VW Crafter LWB: Everything You Need to Know

  The VW Crafter LWB stands out as a versatile and reliable commercial vehicle, catering to businesses and individuals alike. With its spacious interior and robust design, this long wheelbase van has become a popular choice for those seeking ample cargo space and comfortable transportation. The Crafter LWB’s dimensions and payload capacity make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from delivery services to camper conversions. This guide delves into the key aspects of the VW Crafter LWB, providing valuable insights for potential buyers and enthusiasts. We’ll explore its performance and efficiency, examining engine options and fuel economy. The interior features and technology will be highlighted, showcasing the van’s comfort and modern amenities. Additionally, we’ll discuss various configurations, including high roof options and camper layouts, to help readers understand the full potential of this versatile vehicle. Source 

Overview of the VW Crafter LWB

The VW Crafter LWB (Long Wheelbase) stands out as a versatile and robust commercial vehicle designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses. As the largest van in the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle range, the Crafter LWB offers impressive load volumes and payload capacities, making it an ideal choice for various applications. See all VW Crafter vans for sale

Key specifications and dimensions

The VW Crafter LWB boasts impressive dimensions that cater to businesses requiring ample cargo space. With an overall length of 6,836mm and a load bed length of 4,300mm, this long wheelbase variant provides substantial room for transporting goods. The vehicle’s width measures 2,040mm (2,427mm with door mirrors), allowing for easy maneuverability in various settings. See VW Crafter lease deals One of the standout features of the Crafter LWB is its range of roof height options. The high roof model offers an internal height of 1,961mm, while the super high roof variant provides an impressive 2,189mm of headroom. These options translate to load volumes of 14.4 cubic meters and 16.1 cubic meters, respectively, offering flexibility for different cargo requirements. See New VW crafter The Crafter LWB’s load area is designed with practicality in mind. It has a maximum load width of 1,832mm, with 1,380mm between the rear wheel arches. This configuration allows for efficient loading of Euro pallets, with the long model capable of accommodating six Euro pallets comfortably. See VW Crafter MWB

Available models and trim levels

Volkswagen offers the Crafter LWB in various configurations to suit different business needs. The van comes with a choice of front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or 4MOTION all-wheel drive systems, providing options for different driving conditions and load requirements. Additionally, customers can choose between manual and automatic transmissions, further enhancing the van’s versatility. See VW Crafter camper The Crafter LWB is available in two main trim levels: Startline and Trendline. These trim levels differ in terms of features and equipment, allowing businesses to select the option that best fits their specific needs and budget. The Startline serves as the base model, while the Trendline offers additional comfort and convenience features.

Payload and cargo capacity

The VW Crafter LWB excels in its payload and cargo capacity, making it a top choice for businesses that require substantial hauling capabilities. The van’s gross vehicle weight (GVW) options range from 3.0 tons to 5.0 tons, catering to various load requirements. Payload capacities for the Crafter LWB vary depending on the specific configuration and drive system chosen. Front-wheel drive models generally offer the highest payload ratings, with some variants capable of carrying up to 1,369kg (excluding the driver’s weight). Rear-wheel drive models typically have a slightly lower payload capacity due to the additional weight of the drivetrain, while 4MOTION all-wheel drive versions see a further reduction in payload. The Crafter LWB’s cargo area is designed to maximize space utilization. With a load volume ranging from 14.4 to 16.1 cubic meters, depending on the roof height, the van can accommodate a wide variety of cargo types and sizes. The spacious interior and thoughtful design features, such as the optional universal floor with mounting points for shelving systems, provide flexibility for customizing the load area to suit specific business needs. To enhance accessibility, the Crafter LWB features wide sliding doors and rear doors that open up to 270 degrees. The side loading door offers a generous opening width of 1,311mm, facilitating easy loading and unloading of cargo.

Performance and Efficiency

The VW Crafter LWB offers a range of engine options designed to meet the diverse needs of commercial vehicle operators. The heart of the Crafter’s performance lies in its 2.0-liter TDI turbodiesel engines, which have been reconfigured to match the requirements of commercial vehicle use.

Engine options and power output

The Crafter comes with four power outputs to choose from, catering to different operational demands. The options include:

1. 102hp / 300Nm single-turbo
2. 122hp / 300Nm single-turbo
3. 140hp / 340Nm single-turbo
4. 177hp / 410Nm twin-turbo

It’s worth noting that not every engine is available with every body size and drivetrain layout. The 122hp version is only available on rear-wheel drive CR50 (5.0-ton gross vehicle weight) versions with twin rear wheels, while the 102hp engine is limited to front-wheel drive variants. The VW Crafter LWB offers a choice of three different drive systems: front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and 4MOTION all-wheel drive. This versatility allows customers to select the most suitable option for their specific needs. Front-wheel drive models are the lightest and most fuel-efficient, making them ideal for many applications. Transmission options include a six-speed manual gearbox and an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The automatic transmission is the only one in its class that can be combined with all three drive systems. It has been specially calibrated for the Crafter’s specific driving characteristics, enabling both comfortable and fuel-efficient operation.

Fuel economy and emissions

When it comes to fuel economy, the VW Crafter LWB performs reasonably well for its class. The efficiency varies depending on the specific model and engine configuration chosen. For instance, the 138bhp models in medium-wheelbase versions can achieve around 33mpg, with slightly lower figures for heavier long-wheelbase variants. Real-world testing has shown that the Crafter can maintain consistent fuel consumption regardless of weather conditions or load. Some users have reported achieving an average of 35mpg, which, while below the official combined figure, is still considered acceptable for a van of this size. The most efficient Crafters on paper are the 102hp and 140hp mid-size versions, which claim 38.2mpg at their most efficient according to the older NEDC test. While this figure may be optimistic for real-world driving, it demonstrates the van’s potential for fuel economy. To meet Euro 6 emissions regulations, the Crafter requires AdBlue, which adds to running costs. Users can expect to get around 5,000 miles per tank of AdBlue, depending on driving conditions and style. Driving fast or doing mostly short journeys may increase AdBlue consumption.

Driving dynamics and handling VW Crafter LWB

The VW Crafter LWB has earned a reputation for its impressive performance and handling capabilities, making it a standout choice in the large van segment. One of its strengths lies in its ride quality. The van maintains a well-balanced composure, effectively ironing out bumps while keeping body roll in check during direction changes. This level of stability remains consistent even when the van is loaded, showcasing its ability to handle various driving conditions with confidence. See VW Crafter review The Crafter’s electromechanical steering system, a first in its class, adjusts its weight according to the van’s speed. While it may not feel entirely natural, it does an excellent job of masking the vehicle’s size, enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces. See VW Crafter Interior Visibility is another strong point for the Crafter LWB. The slim pillars provide excellent forward visibility, while large mirrors aid in overall awareness. These features, combined with on-board sensors, make tasks like parallel parking less daunting than one might expect for a van of this size. See all VW Crafter accessories The six-speed manual gearbox offers a solid and secure feel, though some users may find it slightly notchy when shifting gears. For those who prefer automatic transmission, the eight-speed option is worth considering, particularly for urban delivery duties. It shifts smoothly without hesitation, even under heavy acceleration.

Interior Features and Technology

The VW Crafter LWB boasts an impressive interior that combines comfort, functionality, and advanced technology. The cabin design prioritizes driver comfort and ergonomics, setting a new standard in the large van segment. Volkswagen has paid meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the interior contributes to an enhanced driving experience. See VW Crafter Alloy wheels

Cabin comfort and ergonomics VW Crafter LWB

At the heart of the Crafter LWB’s ergonomic design is its exceptional driver’s seat. Volkswagen offers a range of seating options to cater to different needs and preferences. The standard seat provides ample adjustment capabilities, allowing drivers to find their optimal position. For those seeking enhanced comfort, the ergoComfort seat takes it a step further with up to 20-way adjustment, ensuring proper support during long drives. The pinnacle of Volkswagen’s seating technology is the ergoActive seat, which incorporates next-generation seat foam and a massage function, along with 14-way adjustment. This advanced seating option is particularly beneficial for drivers who spend extended periods behind the wheel, as it helps reduce fatigue and minimize the risk of back pain. See all VW Crafter Camper For ultimate comfort, Volkswagen offers a suspended driver’s seat upgrade. This independently sprung seat, similar to those found in trucks and busses, absorbs road vibrations and reduces the impact of rough surfaces on the driver’s body. It takes some getting used to, as drivers may find themselves moving in the opposite direction to the van when driving over rough surfaces, but it can significantly reduce lower back strain on long journeys. The Crafter LWB’s steering wheel is designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. It’s fully adjustable, allowing drivers to find the perfect position for their height and arm length. The multifunction steering wheel, available in higher trim levels, puts essential controls at the driver’s fingertips, reducing the need to take hands off the wheel. See all VW Crafter Lease deals

Infotainment and connectivity VW Crafter LWB

The VW Crafter LWB is equipped with the latest generation of infotainment systems, ensuring drivers stay connected and entertained on the road. The defining interior feature is a 10.3-inch infotainment display, with an optional 12.9-inch screen available. This new display is based on Volkswagen’s latest modular infotainment matrix (MIB) and has been arranged to be visually free-standing. The system features a newly developed graphic interface and self-explanatory menu navigation. The display is divided into two permanently visible touch bars and a home screen. On the left of the top bar, there’s a new direct access button that enables the driver to open the main menu with an overview of all apps with just one click. Next to this is a button for the new Car Control Center, offering direct access to the most important vehicle functions. The home screen in the middle combines the content of the most important apps on differently sized tiles, which can be individually configured. The bottom touch bar contains the air conditioning and seat heating functions, along with a home button that allows the driver to return to the central home screen at any time.

Driver assistance systems

The VW Crafter LWB incorporates several advanced driver assistance technologies to enhance safety and comfort. These systems include:

1. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): This system maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead by adjusting speed automatically. It uses radar-controlled Front Assist area monitoring to detect traffic and can trigger emergency braking if necessary.
2. Lane Assist: This technology helps prevent unintentional lane departures by gently steering the vehicle back into its lane.
3. Side Assist: It detects vehicles in blind spots and warns the driver, reducing the risk of collisions during lane changes.
4. Driver Alert System: This feature monitors driver behavior, tracking wheel movements and lane deviations. If it detects signs of fatigue, it alerts the driver with a warning sound and visual display, encouraging them to take a break.
5. Travel Assist: This system combines ACC and Lane Assist to help navigate congested traffic situations more safely and comfortably.

These driver assistance features, along with the comfortable cabin and advanced infotainment system, make the VW Crafter LWB a top choice for businesses and individuals seeking a versatile and well-equipped large van.

Conclusion VW Crafter LWB

The VW Crafter LWB proves to be a versatile and robust commercial vehicle, offering a blend of spaciousness, performance, and advanced features. Its range of engine options, drive systems, and payload capacities cater to various business needs, while the comfortable cabin and cutting-edge technology enhance the driving experience. The van’s fuel efficiency and handling characteristics further solidify its position as a top contender in the large van segment. To wrap up, the Crafter LWB stands out as a well-rounded solution for businesses looking for a reliable and capable commercial vehicle. Its thoughtful design, from the ergonomic cabin to the spacious cargo area, shows Volkswagen’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of commercial vehicle users. With its combination of practicality, comfort, and advanced technology, the VW Crafter LWB is well-equipped to tackle the challenges of modern commercial transportation.

FAQs VW Crafter LWB

1. What is the longevity of a Volkswagen Crafter?
   • The Volkswagen Crafter typically has a lifespan of approximately 168,000 miles before it reaches its upper limit of life expectancy. The type of fuel used can significantly influence the vehicle’s longevity.
2. What are the dimensions of a Long Wheel Base (LWB) VW Crafter?
   • The question about the specific length of a LWB VW Crafter was asked but not answered in the provided material.
3. Which engine option is considered the best for the VW Crafter?
   • The most powerful engine option for the VW Crafter is the 177hp 2.0-liter twin-turbo diesel, available in the MWB high roof Trendline FWD model. It offers a fuel economy of 37.7mpg, which is comparable to the less powerful 102hp and 140hp versions.
4. Does the VW Crafter use a timing belt or a timing chain?
   • The VW Crafter is equipped with a timing belt. It is crucial to check the timing belt components regularly and replace the timing belt kit every five years or after every 74,500 miles to ensure proper maintenance.