The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the T6.1 following a significant facelift in 2019, represents the latest iteration of a commercial vehicle lineage stretching back to the original Type 2 of the 1950s. This particular version, the Kombi Crew Van 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L2H1, is a popular choice in the European market, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and all-weather capability. While not widely sold in the United States, the Transporter series has a devoted following among van enthusiasts and those seeking a versatile vehicle for both work and leisure. The T6.1 update brought styling revisions, upgraded technology, and improved efficiency to the already successful T6 platform.
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1: Overview
The T6.1 generation of the Volkswagen Transporter builds upon the foundation laid by the T6, introducing a more modern aesthetic and enhanced features. The “Kombi Crew Van” designation indicates a configuration designed to carry both passengers and cargo, typically seating five to six occupants. The “2.0 TDI (150 Hp)” signifies the engine – a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel producing 150 horsepower. “4MOTION” denotes Volkswagen’s all-wheel-drive system, providing improved traction, and “DSG” refers to the dual-clutch automatic transmission. The “L2H1” code specifies the vehicle’s body length (L2 – long wheelbase) and roof height (H1 – standard roof).
Engine & Performance
Powering the Transporter T6.1 Kombi Crew Van is a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated EA288 / CXFA or CXHA. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 3250-3750 rpm and 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3000 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to both power output and efficiency. The engine’s 15.5:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, optimizing combustion. Power is delivered to all four wheels via Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and a seven-speed dual-clutch (DSG) automatic transmission. This combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 178 km/h (110.6 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 7.2-7.8 l/100 km (32.7 – 30.2 US mpg) combined, with CO2 emissions ranging from 189-206 g/km, meeting Euro 6d TEMP-EVAP-ISC emission standards. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter further contributes to reducing emissions.
Design & Features
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 is a front-engine, front-wheel-drive (with all-wheel drive capability) van characterized by its practical and functional design. The body style is a traditional van, offering four or five doors and seating for five to six passengers. The L2H1 configuration provides a generous cargo area, with a maximum capacity of 4400 liters (155.38 cu. ft.). The vehicle’s dimensions are 5304 mm (208.82 in.) in length, 1904 mm (74.96 in.) in width, and 1990 mm (78.35 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 3400 mm (133.86 in.). Key features include a robust suspension system – independent McPherson struts at the front and independent coil springs with a wishbone setup at the rear – providing a comfortable ride even when fully loaded. The braking system utilizes ventilated discs on all four wheels (308×29.5 mm front, 294×22 mm rear) and is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The electric power steering provides precise control, and the vehicle boasts a turning circle of 13.2 meters (43.31 ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6.1, facelift 2019) Kombi Crew Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2-8.5 l/100 km (28.7 – 27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6-7.4 l/100 km (35.6 – 31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2-7.8 l/100 km (32.7 – 30.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 189-206 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3250-3750 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2190-2380 kg (4828.12 – 5247 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3000-3200 kg (6613.87 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 810-820 kg (1785.74 – 1807.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4400 l (155.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 13 l (3.43 US gal | 2.86 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5304 mm (208.82 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2297 mm (90.43 in.) |
| Height | 1990 mm (78.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3400 mm (133.86 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.2 m (43.31 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission DSG |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Kombi Crew Van 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG L2H1 remains a highly capable and versatile vehicle, particularly well-suited for those requiring a blend of passenger and cargo carrying capacity, along with the added security of all-wheel drive. Its efficient diesel engine and modern features make it a practical choice for a wide range of applications.
