Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG

The Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long: A European People Mover Masterpiece

The Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long, produced between 2015 and 2019, represents the sixth generation of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ iconic Transporter line, specifically tailored for passenger comfort and versatility. While the Transporter series, known in the United States as the EuroVan for a period, has a rich global history, the Multivan variant of the T6 generation was primarily targeted at European and other international markets, where its blend of space, refinement, and practicality made it a premium choice for families and businesses alike. This particular iteration, the Long wheelbase variant equipped with the 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG powertrain, stood out for its enhanced interior volume, advanced all-wheel-drive capability, and efficient turbodiesel engine paired with a sophisticated automatic transmission, cementing its reputation as a highly capable and luxurious minivan.

The T6 generation built upon the robust foundations of its predecessors, evolving the design and integrating modern technology while retaining the core utility and modularity that define the Multivan. As a minivan, it occupies a unique segment, offering more car-like driving dynamics and interior comfort than traditional commercial vans, yet providing significantly more configurable space than typical passenger cars or SUVs. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase, translating directly to increased cabin and cargo capacity, making it an ideal vehicle for long journeys with multiple passengers or substantial luggage.

Engineering Excellence: Powertrain and Performance of the Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long

At the heart of the Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG lies a highly efficient and robust turbodiesel engine. This 2.0-liter (1968 cm³ or 120.09 cubic inches) inline four-cylinder TDI unit, with engine codes CXFA or CXHA, is a testament to Volkswagen’s expertise in diesel technology. Featuring a common rail fuel injection system, turbocharger, and intercooler, it delivers a respectable 150 horsepower at a broad range of 3250-3750 rpm. More critically for a vehicle of its size and intended use, the engine produces a substantial 250.77 lb.-ft. (340 Nm) of torque, available from a low 1500 rpm all the way up to 3000 rpm. This wide torque band ensures strong pulling power and effortless acceleration, whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, even when fully loaded.

Power is efficiently managed by a 7-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission. This dual-clutch system is renowned for its rapid and smooth gear changes, contributing to both driving refinement and fuel efficiency. Complementing the powerful engine and advanced transmission is Volkswagen’s acclaimed 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. This intelligent drivetrain provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly beneficial in adverse weather conditions or on challenging terrain, significantly improving the vehicle’s versatility and safety profile for drivers outside the sun belt. The combination of a torquey diesel, a quick-shifting automatic, and all-wheel drive gives the Multivan (T6) Long a sophisticated and confident driving character.

In terms of performance, the Multivan (T6) Long 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG achieves a 0-60 mph acceleration in an estimated 12.8 seconds, with a top speed of 110.6 mph (178 km/h). While not a sports car, these figures are more than adequate for a large people mover. Fuel economy is a key strength for this diesel variant, boasting a combined rating of 36.2 US mpg (6.5 l/100 km). Urban consumption stands at 32.7 US mpg (7.2 l/100 km), and extra-urban driving yields an impressive 38.6 US mpg (6.1 l/100 km). With CO2 emissions of 170 g/km and compliance with Euro 6 emission standards, it demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility for its era, further aided by a standard particulate filter.

Design, Features, and Practicality

The design of the Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long is characterized by its timeless, functional aesthetic, instantly recognizable as part of the Transporter lineage. As a minivan, it features a five-door body type, with large sliding doors on both sides for easy access to the rear seating area. The “Long” variant stretches to an impressive 208.82 inches (5304 mm) in length, 74.96 inches (1904 mm) in width (90.43 inches or 2297 mm including mirrors), and 78.35 inches (1990 mm) in height. The extended 133.86-inch (3400 mm) wheelbase is crucial for providing generous interior space, accommodating 7 to 9 passengers depending on the configuration. The flexible seating arrangement, a hallmark of the Multivan, allows for seats to be slid, rotated, or removed entirely, transforming the cabin from a passenger shuttle to a spacious cargo hauler or even a mobile office.

Key features emphasize both comfort and safety. The vehicle comes equipped with electric power steering, making maneuverability easier despite its size, and a robust braking system comprising ventilated discs at the front and disc brakes at the rear, coupled with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for confident stopping power. The suspension setup, featuring independent McPherson struts at the front and a double-wishbone design at the rear, ensures a comfortable ride and stable handling. The ground clearance of 8.23 inches (209 mm) and respectable approach (21.7°), departure (16.7°), and ramp-over (12.7°) angles hint at its capability to handle varied road conditions, especially with the 4MOTION system. Tire options range from 215/65 R16 to 255/45 R18, mounted on corresponding wheel sizes, allowing for customization based on preference for ride comfort or handling.

With a substantial curb weight of 4960.4 lbs (2250 kg) and a maximum permissible weight of 6790.24 lbs (3080 kg), the Multivan (T6) Long is built to carry significant loads. It boasts a maximum payload capacity of 1829.84 lbs (830 kg). Furthermore, its towing capabilities are impressive, rated for a permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) of 5511.56 lbs (2500 kg) and without brakes of 1653.47 lbs (750 kg), highlighting its utility beyond just passenger transport. An 80-liter (21.13 US gallons) fuel tank provides a considerable driving range between refills, a practical advantage for a vehicle often used for long-distance travel.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact of the Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long

The Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long, particularly with the 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG configuration, carved out a significant niche in its primary European and international markets. It continued the illustrious heritage of the Volkswagen Transporter, a lineage stretching back to the iconic T1 “Bus” of the 1950s. Each generation has maintained a reputation for durability, practicality, and versatility, and the T6 was no exception, evolving to meet modern demands for comfort, safety, and efficiency.

In the European market, the Multivan (T6) Long positioned itself as a premium people mover, often chosen by large families, executive shuttle services, and adventure enthusiasts who required substantial space and all-weather capability. Its modular interior, high-quality materials, and refined driving experience set it apart from more basic commercial vans converted for passenger use. The “Long” wheelbase variant was particularly appealing for those needing maximum interior volume, offering more legroom for all passengers and greater luggage capacity, making it perfect for long-distance family vacations or professional transport services.

Competitors in its segment included the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, another premium European minivan that offered similar levels of luxury and refinement, albeit often at a higher price point. Other rivals, such as the Ford Transit Custom (especially its Tourneo Custom passenger variants) and various larger MPVs from brands like Renault or Peugeot, vied for market share, but the Multivan consistently held its own due to its strong brand appeal, robust engineering, and excellent resale values. The combination of the efficient TDI engine, the smooth DSG transmission, and the confidence-inspiring 4MOTION all-wheel drive provided a compelling package that few competitors could match in terms of combined attributes.

The Multivan (T6) Long’s impact was not just economic but also cultural. It continued the tradition of being a versatile “lifestyle vehicle,” capable of adapting from a daily commuter to a weekend camper or a dependable workhorse. Its reliability and longevity ensured a strong secondary market, further solidifying its reputation. The T6 generation, in particular, marked a period where the Multivan successfully blended its utilitarian roots with increasingly sophisticated passenger car amenities and technologies, maintaining its iconic status while adapting to contemporary automotive expectations. While never officially sold in the United States in this configuration, its influence on global minivan design and its legacy as a benchmark for multi-purpose vehicles are undeniable.