In South Africa, the large MPV (or ‘Kombi’ as they’re affectionately known) enjoyed great popularity in the ‘80s, ‘90s and early 2000’s. This was down to their durability, practicality and a lack of options for larger families.
As the SUV became more popular, the large MPV went ignored as buyers preferred the style and utility afforded by a large off-roader. Vehicles such as the Volvo XC90 and Land Rover Discovery saw the VW Caravelle and similar slowly disappear from our roads.
There was still a market, though. Upmarket shuttle companies and tourism agencies still continued to buy the VW Transporter, Hyundai H1 and Mercedes-Benz Vito, their ability to transport several people in comfort - and relatively affordably - unmatched.
But is there still a place for the large MPV as a family car? To find out, we spent some time with the recently revised Volkswagen Transporter, the latest in a long line of Kombi’s from the German brand.
Well, from a styling perspective, there’s not much you can do with the traditional MPV shape. Despite this, VW has managed to bestow the updated Transporter with a classy, understated look. Up front, the facelift has given the people carrier an upmarket grille and headlamps, not too dissimilar from the range-topping Touareg. 17-inch alloys round everything off nicely.
Step inside the Kombi, and you’ll find all the amenities you’d expect at this price point. While six airbags are optional, we’d appreciate more than the standard dual front airbags provided, especially at this price point. VW does, at least, equip the large MPV with ABS brakes, traction control and stability control.
In terms of luxury equipment, the Kombi Trendline is blessed with cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity and front electric windows. The rest of the glass slides fore and aft, a common feature in this segment. At over 5m long, VW has elected to add in front and rear parking sensors - plus a reverse camera - as standard. Options include artificial leather upholstery and LED headlamps. Naturally, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
Interior quality is of a high standard and, despite the harsher plastics, everything feels reassuringly solid and well put together. The Transporter Kombi still has one of the most practical interiors in its class, with myriad seating positions available. What’s more, the seats are reconfigured with relative ease, besting even the Mercedes V-Class for ergonomics. The front pews are worth mentioning, the cloth-trimmed examples offering high levels of comfort.
While it’s missing the premium finishes of the Caravelle, overall the interior is a nice place to spend time.
Performance wise, the 2.0-litre turbodiesel provides decent levels of performance. With 110 kW and 340 Nm of torque, it propels itself down the road with gusto. It’s certainly not fast, but for such a big car, it’s more than adequate. What’s more, the engine is refined and keeps to itself. Even when loaded up with several people and their luggage, the powertrain never feels overstressed. Part of this is down to the smooth shifting seven-speed DSG gearbox. As always, VW’s transmissions are smooth and go about their business without fault.
This also translates into impressive fuel economy. For such a large and heavy car, we didn’t expect to get close to Volkswagen’s claim of 6.6 litres/100 km. Over our week with Wolfsburg’s family bus, we managed a still respectable 9.1 litres/100 km. The ride is also a highlight of the package; smooth and supple. It never feels caught out by bumps or undulations and dismisses potholes with ease.
Verdict
The Kombi remains an impressive product and one that’s really hard to fault. Other than the two standard airbags (we’d like to see six as standard) VW has produced an incredibly capable car. It’s well-specced, performs well, rides comfortably and has enough space for the biggest families out there. What’s more, at R787 500, we think it represents phenomenal value for money. As car prices increase, it’s becoming tougher to find large, comfortable family cars with enough space for a big brood. The Transporter Kombi Trendline ticks all the boxes.
Looking to buy a Volkswagen Kombi? Click here.
FAQ
Q: What does the Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI Kombi SWB Trendline cost in South Africa?
The Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI Kombi SWB Trendline is priced from around R789,900 in South Africa, making it a premium option in the large MPV segment that competes directly with the Mercedes-Benz Vito and Hyundai H1.
Q: Is the Volkswagen Transporter Kombi worth buying as a family car?
The Transporter Kombi is worth buying if you need genuine eight-seater capability and don't mind the commercial vehicle roots, but most families would be better served by a large SUV like the Toyota Fortuner or Ford Everest for similar money.
Q: What engine does the Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI have and how powerful is it?
The Transporter uses a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine producing 110kW and 340Nm of torque, which provides adequate performance for the large MPV while delivering excellent fuel economy of around 7.5L/100km.
Q: How many people can the Volkswagen Transporter Kombi seat?
The Transporter Kombi can seat up to eight people in a 3-3-2 configuration, with the rear seats easily removable to create a massive cargo area when you need van-like practicality.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Volkswagen Transporter in South Africa?
The Transporter's main rivals include the Mercedes-Benz Vito Tourer from R699,000, the Hyundai H1 from R539,900, and the Toyota Quantum Sesfikile from R456,400, though none match the VW's premium feel.
Should You Buy It?
The Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI Kombi SWB Trendline at R789,900 is a tough sell as a family car in 2024. While it offers unmatched people-carrying ability and that legendary VW build quality, the high price, limited safety features, and commercial vehicle DNA make it hard to recommend over a proper seven-seater SUV. If you genuinely need to carry eight people regularly or want something that doubles as a load-lugger, then yes, buy it. But for most South African families, you'd be better off with a Toyota Fortuner or Ford Everest for similar money, both offering better on-road manners, superior safety, and more car-like refinement. The Transporter remains the best large MPV you can buy in SA, but that's a shrinking segment for good reason.
