FLEXIBILITY and versatility are the keywords for Volkswagen's Transporter range, demonstrated to best effect in the latest Shuttle bus.
This is more of a large MPV than a minibus because, true to Volkswagen form, there is a total absence of utilitarianism or any air of a converted commercial vehicle about it.
Instead there is quality all the way and if anyone thinks that the Shuttle is a demanding drive then they are wrong, because in many ways it is as easy to handle as a hatchback.
Shuttle Bus forms part of the fifth instalment of the Volkswagen Transporter legend. Top sales figures and van awards point the finger to the fact that the Transporter is at the top of the tree.
After a few weeks of driving some fairly exotic wheels, the thought of a week at the wheel of what was, to all intents a smartened up van, did not inspire eager anticipation.
But once in the commanding driving seat, the overall view and utter comfort of this vehicle wiped away any doubts over the enjoyment of my drive.
The secret is the finely honed balance and smoothness of the Transporter concept, built on many years of experience.
Tipping the price scales at £20,590, my T30 SE 2.5 TDi 174PS swb model impressed also in its ease of entry and seating plan.
It can accommodate six passengers in two rows of rear seats not counting the driver and front seat passengers. There is also plenty of room for luggage, unlike a lot of MPVs on the market.
Front-engined and front-wheel-drive, it owes a lot of its comfort factor to specially designed front suspension using an isolated chassis subframe.
This is a vitally important fact in any vehicle that carries passengers. How many times in the past have I driven minibuses with an angry van demon waiting to hurl in factors like axle tramp and hard damping?
The 2.5 diesel features a six-speed gearbox which is supebly suited to this engine, one of the latest generation diesels from the VW stable.
FAST FACTS
Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle T30 SE TDI 174PS swb
Price: £20,590
Mechanical: 2.5 litre diesel - 174PS
Max speed: 117mph
Combined mpg: 35.3
CO2 emissions: 216g/km
Gross Vehicle weight: 3,000kg