Model against model
Toyota Hilux vs Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter
Two models people put on the same shortlist. Every figure below is sourced, and where one side has a specification the other does not publish, the row is left out rather than filled with a guess.
Last reviewed 13 September 2026
| Toyota Hilux | Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter | |
|---|---|---|
| Payload | 1205 kg (Single Cab); 1075 kg (Extra Cab); 1105 kg (Double Cab, manual); 1015 kg (Double Cab, automatic) | up to 1.28 tonnes (diesel); up to 1 tonne (electric) |
| Gross weight | 3210 kg (Double Cab) | 2800-3350 kg |
| Towing capacity | 3500 kg (braked) | up to 2.8 tonnes (diesel) |
Only specifications published for both models appear here. Full Toyota Hilux figures and full Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter figures.
Choose the Hilux if...
The Hilux is bought in the UK on a reputation for durability rather than outright payload, and its 3.5 tonne braked towing capacity across the range makes it a common choice for trades that also tow plant or trailers.
Payload varies by cab style and by engine/transmission on the Double Cab; a Double Cab exceeding 3,500 kg gross train weight (vehicle plus loaded trailer) may require a category B+E or C1 licence depending on the combination.
Full specifications →Choose the Transporter if...
The Transporter is positioned above budget medium vans on cabin quality and resale value, and stays under 2 metres tall on both wheelbases so it can access multi-storey car parks that rule out taller rivals.
Figures cover the standard-roof SWB and LWB panel van; the diesel range spans multiple TDI power outputs and the fully electric ID. Buzz Cargo derivative has a lower payload ceiling.
Full specifications →Common questions
What is the difference between the Toyota Hilux and the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter?
Toyota Hilux: The Hilux is bought in the UK on a reputation for durability rather than outright payload, and its 3.5 tonne braked towing capacity across the range makes it a common choice for trades that also tow plant or trailers. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Transporter: The Transporter is positioned above budget medium vans on cabin quality and resale value, and stays under 2 metres tall on both wheelbases so it can access multi-storey car parks that rule out taller rivals.
Are these figures reliable?
Every figure on this page was read off a manufacturer or established dealer page and is linked to its source. Anything we could not verify is left out rather than estimated. Specifications change by model year and configuration, so confirm with the supplier before relying on them.
GetBrent is an independent directory and is not a dealer for, nor affiliated with, either manufacturer. Model and brand names are the trademarks of their owners.