Volkswagen Crafter Tipper Review

The Volkswagen Crafter Tipper at a glance

Since the Volkswagen Crafter first hit the roads way back in 2006, it’s safe to say it has improved significantly. The van’s build quality, technology, power and practicality have all been upgraded on multiple occasions, with each new model surpassing the last.

Regarding VW’s continual improvement of their vehicles, the 2022 Volkswagen Crafter is no exception, boasting class-leading safety features, an incredibly durable chassis and the choice between single and double cab variations. In this review, we’re focussing on the Volkswagen Crafter Tipper conversion, a model with added functionality and loading capabilities.

Featuring a brilliantly converted tipper body by Ingimex, this van truly is as hard-wearing as it is hard-working, proving an ideal choice for landscapers, gardeners, waste and debris removal services and construction workers alike.

Read on to hear our thoughts on the Volkswagen Crafter Tipper.

Engines and Spec

Let’s dive right into the van’s engine and technical specifications. The Crafter also comes as standard with a 6-speed manual transmission gearbox. Below the bonnet is a 2.0-litre TDI engine, capable of delivering 140bhp; that’s plenty of power for heavier loads and the whole crew.

While the single turbo diesel engine is certainly an upgrade on previous Crafter models, it still doesn’t quite produce the same surge of power as the Ford’s Transit, but that’s just being fussy.

Whilst impressive for a larger van, the miles per gallon are somewhat lower than other competitors, with a maximum fuel economy of 38.2mpg on paper. This places the Crafter Tipper behind peers such as the Ford Transit and Fiat Ducato. Despite this, this generation of Crafter model still offers a 3% fuel economy saving in comparison to the previous version.

Here, we thought it would be worth making a point of the Crafter’s industry-leading safety technology, which we think more than makes up for the lower MPG ratings. Fitted as standard is an automatic post-collision braking system, minimising the chance of secondary impact after a crash or bump of any kind.

Payload & Practicality

As mentioned above, the Tipper conversion of the Volkswagen Crafter is carried out by Ingimex. The tipper section is incredibly hardy and designed in accordance with the latest European design standards. Controlling the tipper bed is made easy via the wander lead, meaning you can be stood cab side while operating the tipper function.

As the tipper conversion is available on both the single and crew cab models of the Crafter, each features slightly varying payload and wheelbase specifications, which we’ll cover below. In terms of the tipper section itself, however, both models feature the same size tipper bed, measuring in at 3,350mm x 2,026mm.

If you’re after a tipper, it’s likely that you’ll be desperate to know the maximum payload of this van. Put simply, it depends which model you choose. The single cab, rear-wheel drive model features a payload of 1,046kg, while the front-wheel version comes in slightly lower at 990kg.

When it comes to the crew cab model, some of the total vehicle payload is sacrificed for the extra cab space, so the tipper payload equates to 836kg on the FWD model, and a smaller 770kg if you opt for a rear-wheel drive.

Interior

The cabs of both the single and crew models feature impressive interiors, with a range of useful features, storage and ergonomic design elements. We’re particularly fond of the Bluetooth connectivity and USB charging ports which make navigation, music and communication safe and simple while on the road.

Regarding in-cab storage, there are plenty of open compartments as well as a spacious glovebox and multiple cup holders, perfect for the team’s morning brew or for staying hydrated on longer journeys.

These features, combined with the well-laid-out dash console, ergonomic steering column and comfortable seating equate to a driving and passenger experience that is unmatched by any of the Crafter’s competitors. With all of this considered, Volkswagen’s Crafter cabs may indeed have the best interior quality of any large van on the market.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Class-leading safety features
• Easy-to-use tipper functionality
• Excellent interior quality

Cons

• Lower payload capacity than others on the market
• Less fuel-efficient than certain competitors

The Verdict

So, what do we really think of this van? Overall, the Crafter Tipper is an incredibly versatile vehicle, boasting comfort, intelligent design and a number of great safety features. While the tipper section has a lower payload capacity than certain competitors, it is still more than capable of handling well up to maximum capacity.

Here at Van Sales UK, we have both the single and crew cab models available for purchase as well as a finance lease, contract hire and hire purchase.

To discover all this van has to offer, get in touch with us today. Call 0117 428 7721 or send an email to sales@vansalesuk.co.uk.