New VW Crafter Runner 2020 pricing and specs detailed: Automatic joins manual in van line-up

Volkswagen Australia has doubled the size of its Crafter Runner range, with the large van gaining the option of an automatic transmission for the first time – but there is a catch.

While the carryover manual variants are full-time, the new automatic versions are only available until stock runs out. In fact, just 79 examples are on offer.

The business-focused Crafter Runner is still priced from $49,290 plus on-road costs for the six-speed manual, while the eight-speed torque-converter automatic costs $3000 more.

The three-seat large van remains available in medium wheelbase (MWB) and long wheelbase (LWB) forms, with the latter commanding a $3500 premium over the former.

That said, Volkswagen Australia is offering driveaway pricing until April 30, with the manual MWB checking in at $46,990 and its automatic sibling $3500 upstream. LWB variants are $5500 more expensive.

All versions are powered by a 103kW/340Nm 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, dubbed TDI340, with drive exclusively sent to the front wheels.

The MWB and LWB variants measure 3640mm and 4490mm respectively between their front and rear axles, and all have a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of 3550kg and a maximum braked towing capacity of 2500kg.

Standard equipment in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter rival includes 16-inch steel wheels with a full-size spare, halogen headlights, daytime running lights, rear foglights and ventilated disc brakes.

Inside, an 8.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, digital radio, a four-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, USB and auxiliary connectivity, climate control, power lumbar support for the driver’s seat, a tilt- and reach-adjustable steering column, and front power windows feature.

Advanced driver-assist systems extend to autonomous emergency braking, cruise control, a manual speed limiter, driver attention alert, park assist, a reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, and hill-start assist, plus six airbags.

The Crafter Runner only has one paintwork option, Candy White, which is complemented by a non-existent options list.

2020 Volkswagen Crafter Runner pricing before on-road costs