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Ford Transit Bus vs VW Crafter - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (150 HP vs 177 HP), boot space and price (50500 £ vs 47100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Ford Transit Bus or VW Crafter?

Transit Bus

Ford Transit Bus vs. VW Crafter: A Comprehensive Comparison

When it comes to commercial vehicles, the Ford Transit Bus and the VW Crafter are two of the most popular choices for businesses and organizations. Both models have established themselves in the market due to their reliability, practicality, and advanced features. In this article, we will delve into the technical aspects, innovations, and overall performance of both vehicles to determine which one might be the best fit for your needs.

Transit Bus

Engine and Performance

The Ford Transit Bus is powered by a 2.0-liter diesel engine offering two configurations: 130 HP and 150 HP. This engine provides a torque range of 360 Nm to 390 Nm, giving the Transit a strong performance, especially in urban settings. The vehicle features a front-wheel-drive system and comes with an automatic gearbox, ensuring smooth and comfortable driving.

On the other hand, the VW Crafter boasts a bit more muscle, with power outputs ranging from 140 HP to 177 HP, depending on the variant. With a torque peak of up to 410 Nm, the Crafter offers robust performance for heavier loads and longer distances. This model also supplies multiple transmission options, including manual, automatic, and even an all-wheel-drive system, adding to its versatility.

Transit Bus

Interior Space and Comfort

When it comes to passenger capacity, the Ford Transit Bus can accommodate between 8 to 9 seats, making it ideal for group transportation. The interior is designed to provide comfort, with sufficient headroom and legroom for passengers.

The VW Crafter, although primarily viewed as a cargo van, can also be configured for various needs. However, it typically emphasizes cargo space over seating, as it is usually equipped with two front seats for the driver and a passenger.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency can be a significant factor in the total cost of ownership over time. The Ford Transit Bus has a fuel consumption figure of about 9.4 to 9.5 L/100 km, which is fairly competitive within its class. Meanwhile, the VW Crafter presents a more varying range, with some configurations boasting fuel consumption as low as 8.4 L/100 km, while others may go up to 13.1 L/100 km depending on engine choice and driving conditions.

Dimensions and Load Capacity

The Ford Transit Bus comes with dimensions ranging from 5,531 mm to 5,981 mm in length and offers a payload capacity of up to 1,162 kg. It additionally has a fuel tank capacity of 70 liters, supporting longer trips without the need for frequent stops.

The VW Crafter, significantly larger, ranges from 5,986 mm to 7,391 mm in length, accommodating a larger payload that can go up to 1,292 kg. Its fuel tank capacity is also more generous, at 75 liters, providing an extended range between refuels.

Environmental Impact

Both vehicles are classified in the CO2 efficiency class "G." The Ford Transit Bus emits between 245 to 248 g/km, which is quite competitive for larger vehicles. In comparison, the VW Crafter displays higher emissions, peaking at 342 g/km depending on engine specifics. If environmental considerations are high on your list, this is a factor worth noting.

Innovations and Technology

Both Ford and VW have integrated a variety of technological features aimed at enhancing driver assistance and passenger comfort. The Ford Transit Bus offers advanced safety features, including lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and collision warning systems. Its Ford SYNC infotainment system keeps passengers connected on the go.

The VW Crafter, meanwhile, comes fitted with an intuitive infotainment system and numerous driver assistance features, including emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. VW prides itself on its high-quality cabin materials and ergonomic design, ensuring comfort even during long hours on the road.

Conclusion

Both the Ford Transit Bus and the VW Crafter present compelling options for businesses looking for reliable commercial vehicles. The Transit Bus stands out for passenger capacity and comfort, making it an excellent choice for group transport. In contrast, the VW Crafter excels in payload capacity and flexibility, suitable for businesses needing robust cargo solutions. Your final choice will largely depend on specific requirements—be it passenger transport or cargo handling, both vehicles can deliver exceptional performance tailored to your needs.

Ford Transit Bus

VW Crafter

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

VW Crafter has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 47100 £ , while the Ford Transit Bus costs 50500 £ . That’s a price difference of around 3376 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Crafter manages with 8.40 L and is therefore a bit more efficient than the Ford Transit Bus with 9.40 L. The difference is about 1 L per 100 km.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the VW Crafter has a somewhat edge – offering 177 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 27 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Crafter pulls minimal stronger with 410 Nm compared to 390 Nm. That’s about 20 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Ford Transit Bus offers decisively more seating capacity – 9 vs 2.

In curb weight, VW Crafter is slightly lighter – 2072 kg compared to 2338 kg. The difference is around 266 kg.

When it comes to payload, VW Crafter significantly takes the win – 2994 kg compared to 1162 kg. That’s a difference of about 1832 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The VW Crafter is clearly superior overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

Ford Transit Bus
VW Crafter

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis
from about £47,100
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VW Crafter

  • Engine Type : Diesel
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 140 - 177 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 8.4 - 13.1 L
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Ford Transit Bus

The Ford Transit is the reliable people-mover operators turn to when they need space, stamina and sensible running costs without fuss. It doesn't try to be glamorous, but its practical interior, flexible layouts and honest character make it a smart, stress-free choice for shuttle services and group transport.

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98B296E7-C10F-4999-B4D2-428B46A9DF09
2018_FORD_TRANSIT_Kombi__18
2018_FORD_TRANSIT__12

VW Crafter

The VW Crafter is a no-nonsense workhorse that makes hauling and running a mobile business feel almost civilized, with a cabin built for long days and smart storage where you need it. It may not turn heads for glamour, but its sturdy build, straightforward tech and reliable manners mean fewer headaches for owners — a van that prefers to earn your trust rather than demand attention.

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Reviews Ford Transit Bus

Reviews VW Crafter

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Ford Transit Bus
VW Crafter

Costs and Consumption
Price
50500 - 52900 £
Price
47100 - 68800 £
Consumption L/100km
9.4 - 9.5 L
Consumption L/100km
8.4 - 13.1 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
245 - 248 g/km
co2
220 - 342 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
70 L
Fuel tank capacity
75 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Bus
Body Type
Cargo Van
Seats
9
Seats
2
Doors
4
Doors
4
Curb weight
2338 - 2385 kg
Curb weight
2072 - 2810 kg
Trunk capacity
0 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
5531 - 5981 mm
Length
5986 - 7391 mm
Width
2059 mm
Width
2040 - 2069 mm
Height
2530 - 2533 mm
Height
2355 - 2830 mm
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
9300 - 18400 L
Payload
1115 - 1162 kg
Payload
1037 - 2994 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Diesel
Engine Type
Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
130 - 150 HP
Power HP
140 - 177 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
-
Acceleration 0-100km/h
-
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
90 - 165 km/h
Torque
360 - 390 Nm
Torque
360 - 410 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
96 - 110 kW
Power kW
103 - 130 kW
Engine capacity
1996 cm3
Engine capacity
1968 cm3

General
Model Year
2024
Model Year
2017 - 2023
CO2 Efficiency Class
G
CO2 Efficiency Class
G
Brand
Ford
Brand
VW

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What drivetrain options does the Ford Transit Bus have?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices shown are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted for local VAT. Local registration taxes (e.g. NoVA, BPM or CO2 malus) are not included. This information is not legally binding.