Volkswagen’s dynamic Sportline van range is proving more successful than ever.  Despite the current economic climate, VW Sportline sales are already ahead of this time last year, and if success continues at the same rate, boosted by the introduction this week of a Transporter Sportline Limited Edition X model, sales are predicted to be over 30 per cent ahead of 2008.

Part of this great performance is thanks to the addition of the VW Caddy and Caddy Maxi Sportline models in late 2008, which are already about to exceed their sales forecast for 2009, plus the five-seat Transporter Sportline kombi model, also introduced last year, which has instantly become the most popular van in the range this year. 

There will only be 150 of the Volkswagen Transporter Sportline Limited Edition X models, and they will be available in short and long wheelbase panel van or short wheelbase kombi.  Each vehicle will be individually numbered, with a certificate for the owner. 

In addition to the standard Transporter Sportline van specification of 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome grilles and side sills, leather seats and front and rear spoilers, the Transporter Sportline X models gain distinctive, chrome and black ‘Dakar’ alloy wheels, ‘leather pack’ (leather steering wheel and gear lever), specially designed black and blue leather seats with limited edition numbered tag, Sportline floor mats, and rear parking sensors.  There is a choice of two metallic paint colours – Reflex Silver, and for the first time for the Sportline range, Shadow Blue.

This unique vehicle specification and distinctive appearance is available for only £500 more than the equivalent Transporter Sportline T30, 174 PS, 2.5-litre TDI PD, with basic retail prices (including metallic paint) of £25,065 for the short wheelbase panel van, £25,545 for the long wheelbase panel van, and £26,805 for the kombi van.

‘The success of the Sportline van range proves that our customers still want a van that stands out from the crowd and creates a premium image,’ said Steve Reynolds, Head of Marketing, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (www.vwcv.co.uk).

The Transporter Sportline Limited Edition X is available to order now, with first deliveries expected with customers and at Volkswagen Van Centres in early October.  Full details of the Sportline van range and local Van Centres are available from www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk.