The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the Transporter T6.1 following a significant facelift in 2019, is a light commercial vehicle produced by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. This iteration of the Transporter builds upon the T6 platform, offering updated styling, enhanced technology, and improved efficiency. The T6.1 generation, particularly the Kombi Crew Van variant with the 2.0 TDI engine, was primarily aimed at the European market, serving as a versatile vehicle for both commercial and family use. It occupies the mid-size van segment, competing with models like the Ford Transit Custom, Mercedes-Benz Vito, and Citroën Dispatch.
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1: Overview
The T6.1 represents a substantial refresh of the T6, rather than a complete redesign. The facelift included revisions to the exterior styling, interior appointments, and a significant upgrade to the vehicle’s technology, bringing it in line with contemporary automotive standards. The Kombi Crew Van configuration specifically caters to users needing both cargo space and passenger seating, typically accommodating 5-6 occupants. The 2.0 TDI engine, paired with a DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, was a popular choice for its balance of performance and fuel economy.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Transporter T6.1 2.0 TDI is a four-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine displacing 1,968 cubic centimeters (120.09 cubic inches). This engine produces 150 horsepower at 3,250-3,750 rpm and a substantial 340 Newton-meters (250.77 lb-ft) of torque available from 1,500 to 3,000 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel common rail fuel injection system and features an intercooler to enhance performance. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient gear changes. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.2 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 10.6 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 182 km/h (113.09 mph). Fuel economy figures, measured under the NEDC and WLTP standards, range from 6.1 to 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers (38.6 to 34.6 US mpg), depending on driving conditions. CO2 emissions fall between 162 and 178 grams per kilometer.
Design & Features
The Transporter T6.1 Kombi Crew Van is a four or five-door van characterized by its practical and functional design. The T6.1 facelift brought a more modern aesthetic, with a revised front fascia, updated headlights, and a redesigned grille. The interior was also significantly upgraded, featuring improved materials, a more ergonomic layout, and a greater emphasis on technology. Key features include a modern infotainment system with touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a range of driver-assistance systems. Safety features, crucial in a commercial vehicle, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and various stability control systems. The Kombi Crew Van configuration offers a flexible seating arrangement, allowing for the transport of both passengers and cargo. The vehicle boasts a generous cargo capacity of 3,500 liters (123.6 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded, making it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications. The T6.1 also incorporates features like a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to reduce emissions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6.1, facelift 2019) Kombi Crew Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) DSG L1H1 |
| 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) | 7-7.6 l/100 km (33.6 – 30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7-6.3 l/100 km (41.3 – 37.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1-6.8 l/100 km (38.6 – 34.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 162-178 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3250-3750 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXFA, CXHA |
| 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 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2007-2180 kg (4424.68 – 4806.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 793-1020 kg (1748.27 – 2248.72 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3500 l (123.6 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.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4904 mm (193.07 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2297 mm (90.43 in.) |
| Height | 1990 mm (78.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 906 mm (35.67 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 998 mm (39.29 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |



