Volkswagen T6 Transporter Review 2024
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Volkswagen T6 Transporter At A Glance
Even more refined and car-like to drive, most economical 11PS 2.0 TDI is also the best, large range of body configurations, lots of standard equipment.
Expensive to buy new or used, not an all-new Transporter rather a revamp of the T5, lacking legroom up front which hampers the driving position.
The Volkswagen T6 Transporter is a peach: an extremely fuel efficient, high quality and refined stuff-lugger, with a notable reduction in cabin noise compared to its predecessor, the T5. If you are looking for a comfortable and premium medium size van then look no further.
If you were to place the old Transporter T5 and a T6 side-by-side, you’d see the modernisation. That’s not least because of the T6’s distinctive LED daytime running lights - one bit of technology of many that’s lifted from Volkswagen’s passenger car range.
You do also get the largest range of body styles offered by any single van moniker, says Volkswagen, comprising a couple of wheelbases, three roof heights, four gross vehicle weights, and panel van, Kombi, Shuttle, Caravelle and California configurations.
The engine range is derived from those found in your everyday Golf with the mainstay a Euro 6 compliant 2.0-litre TDI returning around 40mpg - a big improvement on the old model. In 2017, in response to the wave of anti-diesel sentiment, a 2.0-litre TSI petrol was added to the range for a limited period of time.
The Transporter was updated in 2019 and rebranded T6.1 to give a nod to its upgraded connectivity and safety tech. A new electro-mechanical power steering system was also introduced, improving on-road performance.
The cabin is comfortable and fitted with three seats as standard on all panel van versions. The Transporter is packed with car-like assistance and safety systems too, with adaptive cruise control, automatic city braking and post-collision braking. A driver monitoring system is also fitted as standard, with audio and visual signals triggered when the driver's behaviour indicates fatigue.
However, the T6 doesn’t simply shine because Volkswagen has thrown the entire passenger car stock cupboard at it – it shines because it’s taken a strong base and made it even stronger. One or two obvious giveaways aside, this is as car-like a van experience as you could hope for.
Driven: Volkswagen Transporter 6.1 facelift
Long Term Test - Transporter 2.0 TSI PetrolIs the Volkswagen 2.0 TSI petrol panel van a realistic alternative to diesel? Honest John Vans tested one for three months to see if it could cut it as a daily driver. |
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Driving the Volkswagen T6 Transporter
The T6 is one of the best vans to drive. Its handling characteristic is of calm refinement, with a notable lack of engine, wind and road noise, especially at lower speeds.
It does, of course, get gruff when any of the diesel engines are pushed, but that's rarely required thanks to plenty of low down torque. The ride quality serves up typical Volkswagen smoothness without ever suffering from that over-soft bounciness that plagues some vans, especially around town.
Taller drivers may find a lack of legroom in the front because the seats don’t go back far enough, which assists in making the driving position quite ‘short-legged’ and perhaps tiring over longer journeys.
This is not a problem exclusive to the Transporter though and elsewhere the T6 feels as car-like as you could hope for. The steering is wonderfully light and the pedals are set up a charm, making this an extremely easy van to drove smoothly.
The T6 was launched in 2015 with a range of Euro 5 engines that powered the outgoing T5, though they were phased out in 2016 in favour of cleaner Euro 6 units. The Euro 5 2.0-litre TDI engines feature 84PS, 102PS, 140PS and a twin turbo 180PS, but they’re shown up for both refinement and economy by the Euro 6 units that are offered with 84PS, 102PS, 150PS and 204PS.
The Transporter was given a major update in 2019 and rebranded T6.1, with electro-mechanical power steering added and the 2.0 TDI engine output revised to 90PS, 110PS, 150PS and 204PS. The 110PS will be fine for most drivers, while the 150PS will suit van operators who need to tow or carry heavy loads on a day-to-day basis.
Much like the old Volkswagen PD diesel engines, the 2.0 TDI maximises its punch in a quite narrow but easily accessible power band. That makes it feel stronger than it actually is. It's a perfect companion for a heavy-laden van bustling about town.
The T6.1 benefits from touchscreen infotainment as standard, while high spec Sportline models get 8-inch navigation as standard, with the option of a digital instrument display. The Transporter also has lots of active safety tech fitted as standard, which means the van will automatically correct its steering when faced with heavy cross winds, keep the van in its lane on the motorway or apply the brakes if it thinks a front impact is imminent.
Volkswagen T6 Transporter interior
If you’re looking for outright space above all else, the Transporter T6 hasn’t cured the T5’s fundamental space deficit compared to key competitors like the Ford Transit Custom and Vauxhall Vivaro.
It’s all exactly as was - there’s been no change in load length, compartment volume or maximum payload. That means space for three Euro pallets, a 2500kg trailer weight, up to 1270kg payload, a 9.3 cubic metres maximum load compartment volume and a max 2.97 metre load compartment length.
And as before, your choice for the panel van is two wheelbases, two roof heights and two seating combinations, while the Kombi does without the roof options. The panel van is fitted with three seats as standard, while the five-seat Kombi has two seats in the front and three across the second row.
The unchanged dimensions, both interior and exterior, mean that existing T5 owners’ fixtures and fittings will be easily transferable. That’s money saved, which especially for small business users will be good news.
The sliding side door remains, and buyers can specify rear barn doors that open to 250 degrees unlatched. They open to reveal a low, wide loading lip with a fully lined floor featuring six anchorage points (or eight in the long wheelbase version), while a pair of dome lights provide interior illumination, plus one for the step.
Both rear barn doors have an inner release handle, as does, of course, the sliding side door, which at just over 40 inches is wide opening – though not quite enough to accommodate a Euro pallet.
Including all the engine and gearbox choices there’s a typically labyrinthine selection of Transporter possibilities, though mercifully there are only three trim levels: Startline. Highline and Sportline.
Startline comes packed with standard kit, including Bluetooth phone preparation, a 6.5-inch touchscreen media and infotainment display, a USB connection for playing all your favourite hits, remote central locking and a suite of safety systems including lane change assist with side scanning, a driver alert system, and hill hold assist. Sportline adds a performance bodykit, spoiler and leather seats, along with touchscreen navigation.
Volkswagen T6 Transporter models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4892–5292 mm |
| Width | 1904–2283 mm |
| Height | 1900–2476 mm |
| Load Volume | 5.8–6.7 m3 |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1661–2262 kg |
| Payload | 658–1340 kg |
| Warranty | 5 years / 100000 miles |
| Servicing | Variable |
Chassis Cab LWB
| Version | List Price | MPG | |
|---|---|---|---|
| T30 LWB 2.0 TDI 140 Startline BlueMotion Technology | £20,400 | 37.2 mpg | Details |
| T30 LWB 2.0TDI 140 Startline BlueMotion Technology DSG | £21,980 | 35.3 mpg | Details |
Chassis Crew Cab LWB
| Version | List Price | MPG | |
|---|---|---|---|
| T30 LWB 2.0 TDI 140 Startline BlueMotion Technology | £22,400 | 38.7 mpg | Details |
| T30 LWB 2.0TDI 140 Startline BlueMotion Technology DSG | £23,980 | 36.7 mpg | Details |
Crew Panel Van LWB Low Roof
Crew Panel Van SWB Low Roof
Kombi Van LWB High Roof
| Version | List Price | MPG | |
|---|---|---|---|
| T32 LWB 2.0 TDI 102 Trendline BlueMotion Technology | £24,060 | 38.2 mpg | Details |
| T32 LWB 2.0 TDI 140 TL BlueMotion Technology 4Motion | £28,200 | 34.9 mpg | Details |
| T32 LWB 2.0 TDI 140 TL BlueMotion Technology DSG | £27,540 | 35.3 mpg | Details |
| T32 LWB 2.0 TDI 140 Trendline BlueMotion Technology | £25,960 | 37.2 mpg | Details |
Kombi Van LWB Med Roof
Kombi Van SWB Low Roof
Kombi Van SWB Med Roof
Minibus LWB
| Version | List Price | MPG | |
|---|---|---|---|
| LWB Shuttle S 2.0TDI 102 BMT | £24,925 | - | Details |
| LWB Shuttle S 2.0TDI 150 BMT | £26,560 | - | Details |
| LWB Shuttle S 2.0TDI 150 DSG Auto | £28,140 | - | Details |
| LWB Shuttle SE 2.0TDI 102 BMT | £26,525 | - | Details |
| LWB Shuttle SE 2.0TDI 150 BMT | £28,160 | - | Details |
| LWB Shuttle SE 2.0TDI 150 BMT DSG Auto | £29,740 | - | Details |
| LWB Shuttle SE 2.0TDI 204 BMT | £30,240 | - | Details |
| LWB Shuttle SE 2.0TDI 204 BMT DSG Auto | £31,820 | - | Details |
| T30 LWB 2.0 TDI 102 S BlueMotion Technology | £24,925 | 47.1 mpg | Details |
| T30 LWB 2.0 TDI 102 SE BlueMotion Technology | £26,525 | 47.1 mpg | Details |
| T30 LWB 2.0 TDI 150 S BlueMotion Technology | £26,560 | 46.3 mpg | Details |
| T30 LWB 2.0 TDI 150 S DSG BlueMotion Technology | £28,140 | 47.1 mpg | Details |
| T30 LWB 2.0 TDI 150 SE BlueMotion Technology | £28,160 | 46.3 mpg | Details |
| T30 SWB 2.0 TDI 102 S BlueMotion Technology | £24,215 | 47.1 mpg | Details |
| T32 LWB 2.0 TDI 150 SE DSG BlueMotion Technology | £29,740 | 47.1 mpg | Details |
Minibus SWB
Panel Van LWB High Roof
Panel Van LWB Low Roof
Panel Van LWB Med Roof
Panel Van SWB Low Roof
Panel Van SWB Med Roof
Window Van LWB High Roof
Window Van LWB Low Roof
Window Van SWB Low Roof
Window Van SWB Med Roof
Model History
- June 2015: Volkswagen Transporter prices announced
- June 2015: Transporter Kombi Sportline launched
- October 2016: Transporter BlueMotion introduced
- March 2017: Special edition of Transporter T6 Multivan launched to celebrate 70 years of the Volkswagen 'Bulli'
- July 2017: 2.0-litre TSI petrol engines added to Transporter T6 range
- September 2017: Transport Edition launched
- September 2019: Volkswagen Transporter 6.1 launched
June 2015
Volkswagen Transporter prices announced
Prices for the Transporter T6 panel van start from £17,745 (excluding VAT and other OTR charges).
The T6 Transporter panel van and Kombi range consists of three trim levels, all of which enjoy significant equipment boosts over the outgoing model.
Startline models are priced from £17,745 (panel van, excluding VAT) and introduce a host of new standard features including BlueMotion Technology, DAB+ digital radio, 5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth phone connectivity and USB connection. Standard equipment also includes Volkswagen’s acclaimed Automatic Post Collision Braking system, which automatically applies the brakes after a collision, reducing the risk of a secondary impact.
Trendline models start from £19,755 (panel van, excluding VAT) and build on the generous standard specification of the Startline. In addition to new Simora cloth upholstery and a multi-function display, Trendline models benefit from new wheel trims, a full-height steel bulkhead (panel van), body-coloured bumpers and rear parking sensors. A Comfort pack consisting of foldable grab handles on A-pillars, additional storage compartments, dimmable cabin lights and additional noise suppression is also fitted as standard.
Highline models top the T6 Transporter range and are priced from £21,315. Among the many new features introduced to the sixth-generation version are a new leather multifunction steering wheel, heated windscreen, automatic driving light control, daytime running lights and 16-inch Clayton alloy wheels (17” Richmond alloys on T32 and/or 180PS engine). Highline models also come with front fog lights with cornering function and a Thatcham Category 1-approved alarm as standard.
In keeping with Transporter tradition, the T6 model offers a range of body options and gross vehicle weights to suit the needs of all operators and drivers. In addition to three roof height options; standard (1,410 mm), medium (1,635 mm) and high (1,940 mm), the new Transporter is available with four gross vehicle weights (ranging from 2,600 kg to 3,200 kg) along with short and long wheelbase options.
Prices for Kombi models start from £19,840 for the entry-level 2.0 TDI 84PS Startline model.
From launch, the Transporter engine range consists of four 2.0-litre TDI Euro5 engines with outputs of 84 PS, 102 PS, 140 PS and 180 PS (Highline only) and a 2.0-litre TDI Euro 6 unit that develops 102 PS. The 2.0-litre 102PS panel van SWB can return 47.9mpg on the combined cycle (a 10.2mpg improvement) and emits 153 g/km of CO2 (a reduction of 45g/km).
All 84PS and 102PS engines are fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox as standard, with 140PS and 180PS units equipped with either a six-speed transmission as standard or a seven-speed DSG automatic.
June 2015
Transporter Kombi Sportline launched
The range-topping Sportline sits above the Highline trim in the Transporter line-up and feature a number of upgrades, with LED headlights, 18-inch bi-colour alloy wheels and lowered sports suspension. The performance-focused appearance is complete with front and rear spoilers, flanked by chrome styling bars.
Inside, the Transporter kombi Sportline gets embossed leather seats, automatic air conditioning, touchscreen navigation and Bluetooth smartphone connectivity, which will allow the driver to access their phone via the infotainment display. Front and rear parking sensors are also fitted as standard, along with wing mirror mounted puddle lights and LED taillights. The Transporter kombi Sportline only has one engine choice - a bi-turbo 2.0-litre diesel - with 180PS.
October 2016
Transporter BlueMotion introduced
The most frugal edition of the T6 short wheelbase panel van has a 2.0-litre TDI 102PS diesel engine and is capable of returning 51.4 mpg on the combined cycle (a seven per cent improvement) and CO2 emissions reduced to 145 g/km.
In order to achieve these improvements, the new BlueMotion Transporter adds aerodynamically improved wheel spoilers and lowered suspension, modified gear ratios, low friction tyres, cruise control and a speed limiter (to 62 mph) to the standard BlueMotion Technology modifications which come as standard on all T6 models. These include Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems.
March 2017
Special edition of Transporter T6 Multivan launched to celebrate 70 years of the Volkswagen 'Bulli'
Based on the Multivan Comfortline it's a mix of different elements from the Multivan Highline and the California, for example, the chrome trim and wood-look floor. Also optionally available in fresh two-tone paintwork of Candy White and Metallic Kurkuma Yellow.
Identifying features: the 'Bulli' badges and anniversary sticker on the rear window underline the relationship with its cult classic predecessor. The '70 Years of the Bulli' special edition also features chrome trim including diverse chrome strips and chrome-look mirror housings. In addition to that, the passenger compartment has tinted windows, the tread plates feature 'Bulli' lettering and stainless steel inserts and the loading edge covers of the rear hatch are also stainless steel. Matt black decals around the B-pillars round off the overall look. In addition to the standard 17-inch 'Davenport' wheels, also available as options are the popular 18-inch 'Disc' wheels in the classic look with white rims or alternatively in classic silver.
The new 'Bulli' Multivan has deluxe lighting inside, modified 'Visitamo' seat covers, which in turn are coordinated with the look of the 'Dark Wood' floor covering. It also has a multifunction leather steering wheel, a 'Premium' multifunction display and an instrument panel framed in decorative 'Black Glossy' trim otherwise available only in the Highline version. The 'Bulli' has electrically adjustable, heated, fold-in exterior mirrors and also includes ParkPilot for front and rear as standard.
July 2017
2.0-litre TSI petrol engines added to Transporter T6 range
Buyers can choose between two 2.0-litre (1984 cc) TSI units that develop 150PS and 204PS. The latter is equipped with a seven-speed DSG gearbox as standard and available for front- or four-wheel drive, while the former comes with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive only.
Maximum torque is 280Nm from 1500 to 3750rpm for the 150PS version, and 350Nm from 1500 to 4000 rpm for the 204PS. The units are available for order now, and can be specified across the Transporter range, including in California, Caravelle Executive, window van, Shuttle, motor home, kombi and panel van variants.
September 2017
Transport Edition launched
Based on the Highline model, the new Edition features 17-inch Cascavel black diamond surfaced alloy wheels on 150 PS models, and 18-inch Springfield black alloy wheels on 204 PS models. Other design additions include high-gloss black roof and mirror housings, unique Edition decals and blacked-out LED tail lights.
Inside, the Transporter Edition gains Volkswagen’s feature-packed Discover Media Navigation system with App-Connect, while driver aids include front and rear parking sensors with rear-view camera, LED headlights and power latching on the nearside sliding door. Customers can choose from a palette of five colours; Candy White, Grape Yellow, Cherry Red, and Indium Grey or Onyx White (at additional cost). Edition models are available in short wheelbase, low roof form only.
Both panel van and kombi versions can be specified with either a 2.0-litre TDI 150 PS or a 2.0-litre TDI 204 PS engine. Both are equipped with a six-speed manual transmission as standard and are available with a seven-speed DSG gearbox as an option.
Transporter Edition panel van prices start at £28,990 (RRP basic ex VAT), while kombi prices start from £30,620.
September 2019
Volkswagen Transporter 6.1 launched
The hydraulic power steering of the T6 has given way to an electromechanical system in the T6.1 which enables active intervention into steering control. This opens up access to new assistance systems, which include Cross Wind Assist – a standard system in all T6.1 models. When there are cross winds, it automatically stabilises in case of strong wind gusts.
Also on-board thanks to electromechanical power steering: the Lane Assist lane-keeping system. It detects road lane markings by camera and automatically keeps the T6.1 in its lane. From now on, Park Assist will simplify parking and reversing from parking spaces. When it is activated, the system automatically guides the vehicle in and out; all the driver needs to do is operate the accelerator and brake pedals.
To ensure that everything goes right in manual manoeuvring, the side protection system from the Crafter was adapted for use in the T6.1. It utilises distributed ultrasonic sensors around the vehicle to reduce the risk of collision damage. Meanwhile, Rear Traffic Alert protects against accidents while reversing; the system warns the driver of vehicles approaching at a 90-degree angle behind the car. If the driver does not react, the system actively intervenes with braking.
Depending on the engine, the maximum trailer weight can range up to 2500 kg. Now, Trailer Assist, familiar from the Crafter, makes it easier to manoeuvre with a trailer. It takes care of all the complicated rethinking when a driver manoeuvres in reverse with a trailer, i.e., having to turn the steering wheel to the left to get the trailer to turn right. The driver simply sets the desired reversing angle for the trailer using the rotary knob of the electric exterior mirror adjuster – which becomes a joystick – together with a display in the cockpit. Then the T6.1 takes over steering. Trailer Assist represents a fusion of Park Assist, electromechanical power steering and the Rear View reversing camera (which detects the articulation angle of the trailer draw bar). The range of new systems is supplemented by road sign display via the front camera.
The dash panel of the T6.1 has been redesigned. The optional 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit of the T6.1 sets new standards. The driver can choose between different screen configurations. They are switched by pressing the View button on the multifunction steering wheel. Configuration 1: a rev counter and speedometer are displayed interactively in the round instruments. An individually selectable content level is shown in the middle of the screen – such as the phone book of the smartphone. With the top infotainment system, the navigation map can also be opened in the middle between the two instrument dials. Configuration 2: available here is a digital view without dials that offers various information fields. Also integrated centrally here is a user-selectable display – e.g. the media library. The conventional analogue instruments were also redesigned; they feature a multifunction display located in the middle.
Another highlight in the T6.1 are the new navigation systems of the MIB3: the Discover Media (8.0-inch) and the Discover Pro (9.2-inch). The graphic layouts of these touchscreen systems have been redesigned. Functions can be individually configured, like the apps on a smartphone, from a home screen that can be personalised. The display of the Discover Pro also features a full glass overlay. The infotainment programme is rounded out by MIB2 systems: the Composition Audio (with line display, standard from base model) and the Composition Colour (6.5-inch touchscreen, standard from Caravelle Highline, Multivan Comfortline and California Coast).
The most important new equipment feature of all infotainment systems is an integrated SIM card (eSIM). It is included as standard from the Composition Colour and is available as an option for the Composition Audio. The eSIM opens up a new range of online-based functions and services. An example is the eCall function. When an accident occurs, this system automatically sends the vehicle’s location to an emergency response centre and establishes a voice connection. If no response is received from the car, emergency services are informed. In addition, the eSIM represents the interface to "Volkswagen We" – a new world of online services. The 8.0-inch and 9.2-inch systems of the MIB3 also offer features such as internet radio and music streaming services.
Another important interface is being perfected by MIB3: App Connect. Using this function, smartphone apps like Google Maps, the Media Library or Spotify can be used directly via the infotainment system’s display. Until now, a cable connection was needed between the smartphone and the vehicle. For iPhone users, this cable is now "history" in conjunction with the 8.0-inch and 9.2-inch systems. Once an iPhone has been coupled, it will automatically connect with the infotainment system via Bluetooth and the wireless Apple CarPlay. Compatible smartphones of all brands can now also be charged wirelessly – via an inductive charging station in the new dash panel.
New detailed solutions make the work day perfect
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has developed completely new features specially tailored for everyday work. They include a 230-volt electric socket at the driver's seat and a lockable compartment in the double bench seat on the passenger side. In addition, a loading option was newly designed for especially long cargo items; it can now be pushed under the double bench seat on the passenger side (under-seat loading function). This increases the maximum cargo compartment length from 2450 mm to 2800 mm or from 2900 mm to 3300 mm (extended wheelbase).
The Transporter is also equipped with a separate cargo compartment closure as standard (for vehicles with a bulkhead). This allows the cargo compartment to be closed off so that it is separate from the cab. Possibility 1: only the cargo compartment is closed off ("Postal delivery mode") Possibility 2: only the cab is closed off ("Service shop mode"). Another option that will follow is a "Courier package" in which vehicle parts subject to very high stress such as the alternator, battery and driveshafts have an even more robust design.
Power outputs of Euro-6d-TEMP engines range from 90 to 199PS. The engine programme has been reconfigured as well. The front-wheel drive T6.1 will be offered with highly efficient 2.0-litre turbodiesel engines (2.0 TDI) at the market launch. They all fulfil the Euro-6d-TEMP-EVAP emissions standard. The new base engine has a power output of 90PS, which delivers more power than before (previously 84PS). At the next output level, the 2.0 TDI now develops 110PS; it replaces previous engines with 102PS and 114PS. The 2.0 TDI carried over from the previous model are the 150PS and a 2.0 TDI Biturbo with 199PS. The 150-PS TDI can be ordered with a dual clutch gearbox (DSG) and 4MOTION all-wheel drive (manual or DSG) as optional equipment. The 199PS top version is equipped with DSG as standard (optionally with 4MOTION).
