VW Crafter 4x4 – Probefahrt im Gelände (2018)

The first VW Crafter was an unrecognized genius. Now the second generation is available, and Seikel supplies matching tuning components. A test drive reveals what the new Crafter can do. The all-wheel drive history of Volkswagen's large vans has always been a rollercoaster of adventures. At the end of the 1970s, the company went all out, first having Sülzer convert the boxy LT to four-wheel drive, then Steyr built the prototypes with portal axles known as the Noriker. Ultimately, Volkswagen took over production of the all-wheel drive panel van in-house. Although it attracted interest with just over 1,200 units sold, it failed to become a top seller. So it's hardly surprising that the LT2, which followed in 1996, couldn't be ordered with four-wheel drive ex works. And it's all the more surprising that VW once again went all out with the drivetrain technology for the first Crafter, launched in 2006: Achleitner was awarded the contract to install permanent all-wheel drive, low-gear ratios, and up to three differential locks, with factory approval. Now, another step in the opposite direction. With the second generation of the Crafter, the powerful all-wheel drive conversion was dropped from the range, with VW opting instead for its in-house "4Motion" technology, based on an automatic Haldex clutch, which could at least be supplemented with a full-fledged differential lock on the rear axle if necessary. For true off-road enthusiasts, this is a very short step, especially since the permanent all-wheel drive doesn't even come with a raised suspension and more off-road-capable tires. We take a test drive. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ EXPLORER The magazine for all-wheel-drive globetrotters: Six times a year, everything about off-road tours, travel, and expeditions with four-wheel-drive motorhomes, 4x4 trucks, or off-road vehicles. With an annual subscription, you'll receive the magazine conveniently delivered postage-free six times a year – and on average, even one week before it goes on sale at newsstands. Also available as an app for Android and iOS. Attractive bonus included: http://explr.de/abo ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ More interesting topics for all-wheel-drive globetrotters on: Facebook:   / explorermagazin   Instagram:   / explorermagazin   Twitter:   / explrmag   Newsletter: http://explr.de/newsletter Don't miss a video and subscribe to the EXPLORER YouTube channel:    / @explorer-magazin   ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬