VW T5 Transporter & Camper Accessories &
Parts
Volkswagen launched the T5 2003 following
the success from its direct predecessor, the T4. A
vehicle famous for its versatility that is available various
formats, following VWs heritage from the iconic split
screen T1 camper. Known for its German engineered
reliability and high quality finish, it is often revered as a
great platform to build upon. Offering a higher quality
finish than other European brands for a reasonable
price, a popular choice for both commercial and
professional use.
What are the different types
of T5?
The most common setup is the
Transporter variant, a panel van that is predominantly
used for transportation of goods or as a tradesmen
vehicle for moving equipment and materials, although
sometimes people will buy a Transporter as it’s easily
converted to create sleeping and living areas, the
perfect travelling companion. Usually, a blank canvas
ready for tool racking, sleeping installations or ply lining
for a job ready finish.
Caravelle variants are
fully glazed vans, pre-fitted with additional seating and
carpeted for comfort, they most resemble a mini-bus
and are perfect for transporting people around.
Designed to be flexible and adaptable thanks to the
removable seatings, allowing for the capacity of a van
without any major modifications. Often considered the
best starting point to use as a day van, when fitted with
blinds for privacy they can easily be used for sleeping
and living areas. Offering transport for people during
the week, converted easily for the weekend adventures!
Kombi variants are halfway between
Transporter and Caravella models, the sliding doors are
glazed that reveal a second row of seating, but still
retaining a panel rear. A blend between storage and
seating which can be perfect for those that need more
seats without going to a Caravelle. If you consistently
need people carrying capabilities, but like the idea of
converting the rear storage to a static sleeping area, the
Kombi could be ideal for you.
California
variants are essentially factory built camper
conversions, often incurring much higher price tags but
they do come with the fit and finish that is hard to
replicate. Fully equipped with beds, a sink, and fold up
seating and a table to give you full touring capabilities
straight away. Most camper conversion have used the
California as inspiration when installation living or
sleeping areas, making efficient use of the space given
to get the maximum usability.
Other, less
common models could include pick-up and crew cab
pick-up variants of the Transporter vans, these will be
identical at the front but are likely to be non-conforming
at the rear. These model variants are available with a
substantial number of engine configurations, ranging
from a popular 1.9 litre turbo diesel, to a rare 3.2
naturally aspirated litre petrol engine. After winning
awards for consecutive years, the T5 was discontinued
in 2009 when Volkswagen announced the launch of the
facelift T5.1 model, simply improving on years of
success with the T5 model, but still retaining part of the
T5 so as to not spoil the recipe.