The new flagship trim of the VW Transporter takes aim at the Ford Transit Custom MS-RT and other sporty van rivals from Stellantis. Volkswagen is jumping on the sporty van bandwagon with the new Transporter Sportline, sitting at the top of the range, it comes equipped with a standout bodykit, sharp 19-inch alloy wheels, a lowered suspension, and a long list of standard features. 1) wearing the badge too.
For this latest model, the makeover sticks to a familiar formula, adding 'dogbone-style' bumper intakes and gloss black trim around the grille. A red stripe across the front recalls the GTI's signature look. 14 inches).
Around the back, the look is tied together with a pronounced rear bumper, red Transporter lettering, and a split roof spoiler. The Sportline treatment brings sports seats trimmed in eco-leather with red stitching and embossed logos. They're joined by metal scuff plates with illumination, lit vanity mirrors, a heated leather steering wheel, and full carpet flooring.
Buyers can choose between Panel Van and Kombi versions, both offered in two different wheelbase lengths. Despite the visual and suspension upgrades, powertrain options remain unchanged. The top performer is the e-Transporter, which delivers 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS), edging out the GTI on raw output.
As a reminder, this seventh-generation VW Transporter is built on shared underpinnings with the Ford Transit Custom. Beyond the standard Sportline, VW is also offering a limited-run Sportline 75 edition, celebrating 75 years of the iconic VW Bus. Finished exclusively in Moss Green, it features unique mirror cap badges, green interior stitching, and a numbered plaque inside the cabin.
Finally, VW has also introduced the more affordable Transporter Commerce Pro S trim with styling upgrades. The entry-level Commerce Pro S trim begins at £53,086 ($72,700). In the UK, the Transporter Sportline starts at £62,752 ($86,000), while the limited Sportline 75 edition carries a slightly higher price of £64,552 ($88,400).
VW faces stiff competition from the Ford Transit Custom MS-RT, along with the Vauxhall Vivaro GS, Fiat Scudo Onyx, Citroen Dispatch VTR, and Peugeot Expert Sport, all part of Stellantis's commercial van lineup.
The Transporter Sportline is a solid addition to VW's lineup, offering a sporty take on the classic van design. However, with unchanged powertrain options, it will be interesting to see how this trim stacks up against its rivals in terms of performance and overall value.
