Volkswagen T5 Caravelle (2010 - 2015)
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Executive SWB 2.0BiTDI 180PS Minibus
Looks like an airport taxi
I rejected my first Caravelle as it turned out to be a lemon and although wasnt happy to get a silver one as a replacement (as it looks like a minibus/airport taxi) I did get an upgrade to the Executive 180PS model.
Compared to the 140 SE I had before this is like night and day, the extra torque of the engine makes it considerably better to drive than the lower powered one, especially when fully loaded with kids, dogs and bikes. There is absolutely nothing like it for space and practicality. A great family wagon but also with the bed option I use it as a camper van. Shift all the seats about and you have the biggest load carrier you could imagine as well.
The level of equipment is perfect, the only extras I have are multi function steeering wheel, bluetooth and folding mirrors (I live along a single track road so this is a must or they'll get knocked off)
My only gripe about the driving experience is that this one is considerably more "bouncy" when unladen than my 140 - I have no idea why and this probelm disapears when it's full of people.
I've had a couple of minor issues with this one - a rattly DMF/clutch when changing gear and notchy steering which I also had with my last Caravelle. Neither of these are bad enough for me to take it to the dealer before it's scheduled service.
Costs are pretty good, 28MPG average, again as I live in the country at the top of a hill so local mileage is low MPG and the extra BHP means you drive faster on the mtorway and again get lower MPG. I dont think 28 is bad though, it's better than the 25 I got from my XC90 that I traded in against this. Tax is £280 which is ok for a vehicle of this size.
I'm not sure about servicing costs as I got a 4 year package thrown in with the van. I am a little concerned about repair costs post warranty period though as I dont think the van is as reliable as other VW's i've had.
Bridgwater VW were an excellent business to deal with. Despite issues with my previous Caravelle they ensured I was always happy. Having had a couple of Fords previously I was expecting considerably less customer service than I got.
