Used Volkswagen Transporter for sale: everything you need to know

You might not be able to tell at a glance, but the Volkswagen Transporter has an enviable heritage that goes back to the original Type 2 ‘Microbus’ of the 1950s - a history longer than even Volkswagen’s own Golf.

Today’s model is hugely popular and still has an image that’s a cut above rivals such as the Ford Transit, but it doesn’t compromise on utility, economy, or build quality, all factors that still make the modern transporter a useful working vehicle.

Rivals include that UK favourite, the Ford Transit, as well as the Renault Trafic and Vauxhall Vivaro duo, the Citroen Dispatch, Peugeot Expert, Toyota Proace and Fiat Scudo quartet, and the Mercedes-Benz Vito. Each have their own qualities, but the VW remains among the best in the class.

Should you buy a Volkswagen Transporter? 

The Volkswagen Transporter should certainly be on your shortlist whether you’re looking for a new or a used van. With several generations to choose from (not even including those bona-fide classic models) there’s something for every budget, but the latest models are as sophisticated as they are useful.

It’s difficult to differentiate medium-sized panel vans like the Transporter purely from a styling perspective, but the current T6 still fits nicely into the wider VW range. That applies inside the classy cabin too, which wouldn’t look out of place in one of the brand’s passenger cars. There are a few striking colours on offer too, though VW has saved its classic two-tones for the passenger-focused California, and the new electric ID. Buzz.

The Transporter’s visual sophistication carries over to the driving experience. All are powered by four-cylinder diesel engines of varying outputs, and while the entry-level models are limited in power, they’re commendably refined. Higher-output options are more than up to heavier loads, and all are smooth and easy to drive, whether using the manual transmission or the optional 7-speed DSG auto available on some engines.

Some rivals offer more kit for your money, and an even wider range of available body styles and options. The Ford Transit offers a slightly more engaging drive, if that’s a priority, while a handful of rivals offer an electric powertrain - VW buyers instead have to look to the ID. Buzz for that, with no electric Transporter available.

Basic models lack desirable features like air conditioning, but otherwise the Transporter range gives you plenty of options, including different wheelbases and body styles. High-end models can get pricey, so you may want to find a good deal on one of the used examples above.

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What’s the best used Volkswagen Transporter model to buy?

The best Volkswagen Transporter depends very much on your needs as a private or business user, but loadspace is probably the main factor, and in that respect the choice is primarily between short wheelbase and long wheelbase models - the SWB Transporter can accept a pair of 800mm by 1200mm Euro pallets in the back, while the LWB will take three. This goes down to one, or two Euro pallets for the kombi crew van models, while the dropside chassis cab can take four. There are lift-up and twin rear door options for accessing the rear load bay.

It’s worth noting too that the Transporter’s payload and trailer ratings go up slightly along with increasing power figures, so if your business involves hauling heavier loads, we’d suggest avoiding the basic 90PS models, particularly with no great difference in fuel economy across the range - the 110PS and 150PS options are the picks of the range. We’d also look for a Highline model too, primarily to benefit from its air conditioning.

Used Volkswagen Transporter fuel economy and performance

• Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 90PS: Like all Transporters, the entry point in the range uses a 2-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel, here in 90PS output. In short wheelbase form it’s capable of up to 40.4mpg, covers 0-62mph in 19.7 seconds, and reaches 94mph.
• Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 110PS: Essentially a more powerful variant of the 90PS model, the 110PS Transporter achieves the same 40.4mpg, but is quicker with a 15.3-second 0-62mph time, and a 102mph top speed.
• Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 TDI 150PS: 150PS models get a 6-speed rather than a 5-speed gearbox. Still in short wheelbase form, its best economy figure is 40.4mpg, with 0-62mph in 11.1 seconds, and a top speed of 114mph.
• Volkswagen Transporter 2.0 BiTDI 204PS: The most powerful Transporter is available only in Highline trim, with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. VW claims 37.7mpg combined, 9.3 seconds from 0-62mph, and 126mph.

What used Volkswagen Transporter trim levels are available?

You’ll find more variety in body styles than trim levels with the Transporter, with the range divided between short and long-wheelbase panel vans, crew vans, and chassis cab models. In terms of trim, it’s a choice of either the entry-level Startline, or the better-equipped Highline.

The specifications below apply to the most recent 2023 “T6.1” models, so older used models may vary slightly since the first T6 variants introduced in 2016, and the current T6.1 since 2019. A new T7 is also now available in some markets.

• The Volkswagen Transporter Startline marks the starting point of the range, but is still relatively well equipped. It may only get steel wheels and lacks air conditioning, but there’s a suite of safety systems, smartphone connectivity, and electric and heated door mirrors. All models use the 2.0 TDI engine in 90-15PS outputs with either a six-speed manual or 7-speed DSG transmission, while 4Motion all-wheel drive is optional.
• The Volkswagen Transporter Highline offers a higher standard of equipment, including air conditioning, alloy wheels, fog lights, and a heated windscreen. It features the same engine and transmission options as the Startline, plus a more powerful 204PS BiTDI engine in DSG form only, with either front-wheel drive or 4Motion all-wheel drive.

Used Volkswagen Transporter dimensions and boot size

The Volkswagen Transporter’s dimensions are:

• Length: 4904-5304mm
• Width: 1904mm
• Height: 1990-2477mm
• Ground clearance: 201-202mm

The Volkswagen Transporter’s load capacity is:

• 5.8 cubic metres (SWB)
• 6.7 cubic metres (LWB)

Used Volkswagen Transporter road tax

VED or ‘road tax’ rates for vans are more straightforward than they are for cars, and in this respect you’ll be looking at a flat VED rate for any model of Volkswagen Transporter. For the 2023/2024 tax year this means a six-monthly rate of £176, or 12-monthly bill for £320 - with a slight surcharge for paying monthly by Direct Debit.

How much is it to insure a Volkswagen Transporter?

Due to the enormous range of variants available, you will need to check insurance on a case-by-case basis for any Volkswagen Transporter you’re looking to buy, but broadly speaking the range spans from the high group 20 range for the basic models, to nearly the top group 50 for higher-specification variants.

Read our full Volkswagen Transporter review