Volkswagen Caddy (2015 – 2021) Review

Volkswagen Caddy (2015 – 2021) At A Glance

4/5

+Impressive 2.0 TDI engine, excellent refinement,

-A thorough revamp rather than an all-new van, cargo area is still limited compared to the competition.

The new fourth generation Caddy may appear to be just a facelifted model at first glance, but Volkswagen has made some significant changes beyond the aesthetics. An all-new interior further bolsters the Caddy’s position of being one of the best in its class when it comes to quality and driver comfort.

Despite a familiar silhouette it is only the cargo area that has remained largely the same, mainly so that existing owners will be able to transfer any specific interior fit-outs with ease.

As with its predecessor the Volkswagen Caddy is available in standard and long wheelbase - called the Caddy Maxi - versions, both of which are available with a number of rear-door options. Most buyers will opt for the standard front-wheel drive model, though for those who venture into more remote locations the Caddy is also available with 4Motion all-wheel drive.

There is a choice of four diesel engines in the Caddy range, all 2.0 TDI units. Power outputs range from the entry-level 75PS through to 102PS and 122PS, right up to a range-topping 150PS version. Depending on power output the Caddy comes equipped with either a five or six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while there's an optional automatic DSG. The Caddy has also been sold with a broad range of 1.0, 1.2 and 1.4 TSI petrol engines.

All engines are Euro 6 compliant, thanks in part to AdBlue technology, and come equipped with Volkswagen’s BlueMotion systems to help reduce fuel consumption. According to official figures the 102PS van is the most efficient Caddy, returning an official 72.3mpg, while emissions are rated at just 99g/km.

In standard form the Caddy can carry a cargo load of up to 3.2 cubic metres while the Caddy Maxi can carry up to 4.2 cubic metres - both can accommodate a Euro pallet lengthways. That's the same as before which means the Caddy still lags behind the competition when it comes to outright carrying ability. The Transit Connect is easier to load and has a bigger payload.

In comparison to some of its rivals the Caddy does carry a price premium but it’s easy to see just where the Volkswagen rises above the rest when it comes to quality and refinement.

Driven: Volkswagen Caddy 1.4 TSI petrol

The petrol version of the Caddy is quiet, refined and packed with torque. It will also shift over 600kg, which makes it a great non-diesel alternative for those who only cover short distances on a daily basis.

Read our first drive here >>

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Ask Honest John

Is the Volkswagen TSI water pump on separate belt ?

"My 2018 VW Caddy 1-litre TSI is due for a 5 year cambelt change. I enquired at my main dealer, who said that VW have now changed the intervals to 60000, with the 5 year change being unnecessary, but it can be done at the owners request. They also told me that the water pump on my engine is on a separate belt, so does not need changing at the same time. l am confused, as I have been informed previously by VW and other sources, that the pump should be changed at the same time, as it is driven by the same cam belt. Please can you confirm this information for me, as I still want the belt changed, and also an idea how much this might cost?"
If your Caddy is fitted with an EA211 engine then it is correct to say that the water pump is driven off a separate belt at the opposite side of the engine to the cambelt, so it is not necessary to replace the water pump at the same time. There is no specific guidance on water pump replacement intervals, but you may wish to consider having the pump and auxiliary belt replaced at the same time for peace of mind. The cost will vary depending on whether you use a Volkswagen dealer or independent garage, but we would expect an independent to charge around £600.
Answered by David Ross

Volkswagen Caddy - cam belt or chain?

"I have my 2018 Volkswagen Caddy 1.0-litre TSI booked in for its service and MoT at a Leicester main dealer next month. A short while ago they phoned to say that the cam belt and water pump were due for change, and would I like them doing at the same time? I understand that the belt and pump should be done at five years. Who is right please? Also, could you confirm that the van's engine has a cam belt not a chain? "
The 1.0 TSI petrol Caddy van uses a cam belt. I'd suggest getting this done every five years or 60,000 miles (whichever comes first). The belt, tensioner, pulley and water pump all need to be changed at the same time.
Answered by Dan Powell

Can I return a van if there is fluid around the injectors?

"I bought a Volkswagen Caddy today and the van runs fine. It has 75000 miles but it has a small amount of fluid around each of the injectors. Is this normal on a 1.6 TDI and can I return it to a private car dealer after purchasing it?"
This reads like a leaking injector. It may be a problem within the seal or the pipe and will probably be a garage job. Someone will need to clean the fluid from the engine and then identify the cause of the leak.
Answered by Dan Powell

What are the implications of buying a Cat D van?

"I am looking at buying a Volkswagen Caddy van which has been categorised as a Cat D but looks in good condition. What are the insurance implications for such a vehicle?"
None, other than the car will be worth less money if it ever a total loss in the future. It would need to be approximately 20% less than retail now for it to be a worthwhile buy now.
Answered by Tim Kelly
More Questions

What does a Volkswagen Caddy (2015 – 2021) cost?