14:09 02-01-2026

2026 Volkswagen Transporter adds new body styles, plug-in hybrid and longer-range EVs

Volkswagen is shoring up its position in the commercial-vehicle arena: the 2026 Transporter receives a raft of meaningful updates, betting on a wider spread of body styles, an expanded engine lineup and deeper electrification. Orders are already open, and the refreshed production program is set to start in week 5 of 2026 (January 26–February 1), when the new models move onto the line. The message is clear: more choice, delivered on a tight schedule.

The headline is three new body variants. The range now includes the Transporter Box with an extended 3500 mm wheelbase, upright rear doors and a right-side sliding door. There’s also a new double-cab pickup: six seats in the cabin and a cargo bed in the familiar format, but with broader everyday usability. It will be offered with diesel power, a 136 hp electric version, and even all-wheel drive. That mix should suit crews who split their time between city jobs and tougher sites.

Under the skin, the big news is a plug-in hybrid. It pairs a 2.5-liter gasoline engine running the Atkinson cycle with front-wheel drive, a CVT and an 11.8 kWh battery for up to 54 km of electric-only driving, delivering a combined 230 hp. The all-electric Transporter and Caravelle also step up: usable battery capacity rises to 70 kWh, pushing maximum range to 370 km. Output options span 136, 218 and 286 hp, with the higher-powered versions available with 4MOTION. With those updates, the electric offerings look more viable for real-world routes without constant charging detours.