Maybe you're in the market for a new van and a Volkswagen Transporter is top of your list, or you have a Transporter already and are looking for parts but you're not sure of the exact model.

Whatever the reason, we know the world of VW Transporters can be confusing and so we've put together a short guide to help distinguish between the different T's. That's the T4, T5, T5.1 and T6. 

VW Transporter T4

The Transporter T4 was manufactured between 1990 and 2003 and can easily be distinguished by it's older looks. It was also the first Volkswagen van to have a front-mounted, water-cooled engine. The T4 was available in many forms and sizes as standard; with a long (left) or short (right) nose appearance. 

If your van had a 'H' to an 03 number plate, and looks like one of the vans above, then it is most likely to be a T4. 

VW Transporter T5

The Transporter T5 was initially manufactured between 2003 and 2010 and is easily the most recognisable and popular Transporter on the roads today. It was given an upgraded look from it's T4 predecessor and features a more modern shape and 4-piece front grill. 

This model is often confused with the facelifted T5.1 which came in 2010 and features a reinvented front end. 

VW Transporter T5.1 (facelift)

The Transporter T5.1 is the newer, 'facelift' version of the well-known T5. It was introduced in 2010 and has a much sleeker and differently shaped front end. 

The main difference, and way to tell, are the front lights and bonnet shape. As well as looking at the mirror covers. This is the newer, fresher T5; if you have an '01 to '14 plate then it is most likely the T5.1. 

VW Transporter T6

The Transporter T6 is the latest release in the long line of Transporters from VW. It was released in 2014 and replaced the facelifted T5.1. 

Many of the updates can be seen under the bonnet and in it's safety aspects, but there is also a clear cosmetic update through the headlights and grill. 

Now you know which Volkswagen Transporter you have (or are looking to buy), you can start finding the parts and updates for it via our vehicle selector tool. This will narrow down your search and give you only those products relevant to your van!