(09 May 04)

Volkswagen has expanded its MPV range to take in two versions of the van-based Transporter Shuttle. The standard type takes up to eight people, but the long-wheelbase job is a nine-seater.

So where does the ninth seat go, in a vehicle whose normal layout is two/three/three? It goes up front, as part of a space-for-two passenger bench.

Rather better kitted-out than the Transporter window van, the Shuttle has standard features like side window blinds, electric front windows and door mirror adjust. The SE models add air conditioning, floor carpets and body-coloured bumpers. All the Shuttles come with ABS, traction control, remote central locking, deadlocks and a driver's airbag.

There's a wide range of engines, all of them turbo diesels. The entry-level engine is an 83bhp 1.9-litre, and the next step up is a similarly sized 102bhp unit. Then there are two 2.5-litre V6 engines, a TDI 130 and a TDI 174.

The V6 models have a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, with a six-speed Tiptronic as an extra-cost option in the more powerful car. Only the TDI 130 is offered with a four-wheel drive option.

Prices start at £19,462 (that's £15,970 plus VAT) for the short-wheelbase 83bhp version and top out at £24,926 (£20,620 basic) for the long-wheelbase TDI 174 SE.

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