Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ new Transporter has been named ‘Medium Van of the Year’ thanks to its everyday practicality and reliability, as well as taking home the ‘Safety Award’ at the What Van? Awards 2026.
Judged by an independent panel of experts on factors including driver experience, running costs, functionality and desirability, the new Transporter was recognised for its practicality as an everyday workhorse and its safety rating.
The new Transporter also took home the ‘Safety Award’, sponsored by Euro NCAP. Fitted as standard with a range of safety and driver assistance systems such as intelligent cruise control system and lane assist, the new Transporter is available with autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system and radar-camera fusion technology.
The previous generation Transporter was also Highly Commended in the Used Van category, receiving praise for its high residual values, enduring quality and reliability.
James Dallas, editor at What Van?, said: “The Volkswagen Transporter is the most accomplished and best to drive medium van on the market in both ICE and electric modes. Commendably, it has also gained top marks for safety.”
John Ricardo-Neto, head of product planning at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, added: “This year we’re celebrating 75 years of the VW Bus and the Transporter’s continued success demonstrates its unmatched performance and practicality as the perfect companion for van drivers.”
