This automatic step for VW Crafters built in 2017 or later with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive ensures comfortable and safe access for everyday commercial use. Access is made significantly easier, especially for RWD and AWD models with increased ground clearance.
With a generous step surface measuring 975 x 248 x 45 mm and a load capacity of up to 250 kg, the entry aid offers a stable and resilient solution for tradespeople, service providers, and fleet operators.
Is a step useful for the VW Crafter with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive?
Yes. Crafter RWD and AWD models have a higher entry edge. An automatic step significantly reduces the height difference, increases work safety, and protects your back and joints – especially when getting in and out frequently.
Electric or mechanical step for the VW Crafter?
For the VW Crafter from 2017 onwards (rear-wheel and all-wheel drive), the step is available either as an electric comfort version or as a mechanical, door-integrated version.
Suitable for VW Crafter (from 2017)
The automatic step is compatible with selected vehicle variants of the VW Crafter from 2017 onwards and the identically constructed MAN TGE. Especially for rear-wheel and all-wheel drive models (RWD & AWD), it makes getting in and out much easier in everyday use.
🚐 Vehicle variants – VW Crafter (from 2017)
| Designation |
Drive type |
Wheelbase |
Overall length |
Vehicle height |
| L3H2 |
AWD & RWD |
3,640 mm |
5,986 mm |
2,390 mm |
| L3H3 |
AWD & RWD |
3,640 mm |
5,932 mm |
2,625 mm |
| L4H3 |
AWD & RWD |
4,490 mm |
6,836 mm |
2,625 mm |
| L5H3 |
AWD & RWD |
4,490 mm |
7,391 mm |
2,625 mm |
Note: The vehicle length can be found in the vehicle registration document under item 18, the vehicle height under item 20, and the year of manufacture under item 6 (German registration).
Electric step – maximum comfort
The electric version extends automatically when the right-hand sliding door (passenger side) is opened and retracts again when it is closed – with an extension time of approx. 2 seconds.
- Anti-trap protection with automatic shut-off
- RGB status display in the driver's area
- Automatic, manual, and combined modes
- Camping mode for stationary operation
- Very low standby consumption
- Electronic end position detection
- ECE R10-compliant electronics
- Load capacity up to 250 kg
Mechanical step – robust & independent
The mechanical, door-integrated version works completely without an electrical connection. A sturdy actuating arm is mounted directly on the right-hand sliding door. The step extends automatically when the door is opened and retracts again when it is closed.
- No connection to the vehicle electrical system
- Extremely robust mechanics
- Low maintenance and durable
- Ideal for construction site and fleet vehicles
- Load capacity up to 250 kg
Electric or mechanical – a direct comparison
🔍 Comparison – electric vs. mechanical step (VW Crafter from 2017 RWD/AWD)
| Criterion |
Electric |
Mechanical (door-integrated) |
| Activation |
Motor via door signal |
Via door arm on the sliding door |
| Comfort |
Very high |
Robust & functional |
| Load capacity |
250 kg |
250 kg |
| Power consumption |
Very low quiescent current |
No power connection |
| Recommended for |
Service & comfort-oriented users |
Commercial & construction site use |
Conclusion: The ideal entry-level solution for your VW Crafter
Whether electric with comfort technology or mechanical with door combination – this automatic step for VW Crafters from 2017 onwards with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive offers a durable, safe, and practical retrofit solution for professional applications.
Frequently asked questions about the VW Crafter step (from 2017)
Which VW Crafter models is the step suitable for?
Suitable for VW Crafters from 2017 onwards with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
What is the maximum load capacity?
The step is designed for a load of up to 250 kg.
What are the dimensions of the step surface?
The step surface measures 975 x 248 x 45 mm.
On which side of the vehicle is it installed?
It is installed exclusively on the right-hand sliding door (passenger side).
Is the step available in electric and mechanical versions?
Yes, it is available either as an electric comfort version or as a mechanical, door-integrated version.