2024 Volkswagen Crafter Kampervan Review: A Luxurious Home on Wheels

The 2024 Volkswagen Crafter Kampervan, a collaboration between Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Australia and Jayco, offers a compelling blend of comfort, practicality, and adventure. This second-generation (GEN2) model builds on the success of its predecessor, incorporating customer feedback and quality improvements to create a more refined and capable campervan experience.

Key Specifications:

Engine: 2.0-liter twin-turbo diesel (130kW/410Nm)
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Drivetrain: 4Motion all-wheel drive
Fuel Economy: 10-12L/100km (as tested)
Price: From $157,990 (Style) to $165,490 (All-Terrain) plus on-road costs

Key Features:

Sleeps 2 adults comfortably (queen-size bed)
Full kitchen with gas cooktop, sink, and 90L fridge/freezer
Internal shower and cassette toilet
400Ah 12V lithium battery system
200W solar panel
Fiamma wind-out awning
8-inch infotainment system with satellite navigation

Performance:

The Crafter Kampervan's 2.0-liter twin-turbo diesel engine provides ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. The 8-speed automatic transmission offers smooth shifts, contributing to a refined driving experience. Despite its size (6.8m long, 2.0m wide, 2.9m high), the Kampervan handles surprisingly well, with reviewers noting its confident cornering and decent steering.

Interior and Practicality:

The interior impresses with its high-quality fit-out and practical design. The fixed rear bed, a new addition for GEN2, increases internal storage space. The kitchen area is well-equipped, and the bathroom facilities, while compact, are functional. The Kampervan offers impressive off-grid capability, with VW claiming more than three days of use without AC, or 6-7 hours with AC.

Pros:

High-quality interior fit-out
Impressive off-grid capabilities
Comfortable driving experience
Comprehensive dealer and service network support

Cons:

Limited production numbers
High price point
Large size may be challenging for some drivers
No manual transmission option

Final Comments:

The 2024 Volkswagen Crafter Kampervan GEN2 offers a compelling package for those seeking a turnkey campervan solution. Its blend of comfort, practicality, and off-grid capability make it an attractive option for adventurous travelers. While the price point is high, the comprehensive features and Volkswagen's warranty support help justify the investment.

Ending Statement:

As the campervan market continues to grow, the Volkswagen Crafter Kampervan stands out as a premium offering that combines the reliability of a major automotive brand with the expertise of a renowned RV manufacturer. For those with the budget and desire for a high-end, ready-to-go campervan experience, the Crafter Kampervan presents an enticing option.