Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG

The Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long: A European Standard for Versatility and Refinement

The Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s celebrated Transporter series, a lineage of commercial and passenger vans spanning over seven decades. Launched in 2015 as part of the sixth generation (T6) of the iconic vehicle family, the Multivan variant is specifically tailored as a premium people mover, renowned for its flexible interior, robust engineering, and sophisticated driving dynamics. While the Volkswagen Transporter series has historically been a global phenomenon, the Multivan, particularly in this configuration, primarily served the European and select international markets, where it carved out a niche as a high-end family hauler, executive shuttle, and even a base for recreational campers. This particular model, the T6 Long 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG, produced from 2015 to 2019, distinguished itself with its extended wheelbase, powerful diesel engine, advanced all-wheel-drive system, and efficient automatic transmission, offering a compelling blend of space, performance, and utility.

Engine & Performance: The Power of the 2.0 TDI in the Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long

At the heart of this particular Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long variant lies a potent 2.0-liter TDI (Turbocharged Direct Injection) inline-four diesel engine, designated with the internal code CXEB. This powerplant generates a robust 204 horsepower at 4000 rpm, translating to an impressive 103.7 horsepower per liter. More critically for a vehicle of its size and intended use, the engine delivers a substantial 331.9 lb.-ft. (450 Nm) of torque across a broad and accessible rev range, from 1400 to 2400 rpm. This low-end torque is crucial for effortless acceleration, confident overtaking, and the ability to handle heavy loads or tow a trailer with ease. The engine’s advanced common rail fuel injection system and turbocharger with intercooler ensure efficient combustion and responsive power delivery, while meeting the stringent Euro 6 emission standards, thanks in part to a sophisticated particulate filter system.

Power is seamlessly transmitted to the road via a 7-speed automatic DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) transmission, known for its rapid and smooth gear changes, contributing significantly to both driving comfort and fuel efficiency. Further enhancing its capabilities is Volkswagen’s renowned 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. This intelligent all-wheel-drive system provides superior traction and stability, particularly beneficial in adverse weather conditions, on unpaved roads, or when towing. Despite its substantial size, the Multivan (T6) Long 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG exhibits respectable performance figures for a vehicle in its class, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9.6 seconds (0-100 km/h in 10.1 seconds) and reaching a top speed of 123.65 mph (199 km/h). Fuel economy is also commendable for an all-wheel-drive minivan of this power, with a combined cycle rating of 34.6 US mpg (6.8 l/100 km), demonstrating the efficiency benefits of modern diesel technology paired with an advanced drivetrain.

Design & Features: Practicality Meets Premium in the Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long

The Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long embodies the classic minivan body type, characterized by its practical five-door layout and expansive interior. This extended wheelbase version measures an impressive 208.82 inches (5304 mm) in length, offering significantly more cargo and passenger space compared to its standard-wheelbase sibling. With a width of 74.96 inches (1904 mm) and a height of 78.35 inches (1990 mm), it commands a substantial presence on the road. The interior is designed for maximum flexibility, offering seating configurations for 7 to 9 passengers. The modular seating system, often featuring swiveling captain’s chairs and a sliding rear bench, allows owners to reconfigure the cabin to prioritize passenger comfort, cargo volume, or a combination of both, making it exceptionally adaptable for families, businesses, or even as a versatile base for camping conversions.

Aesthetically, the T6 Multivan maintains the clean, functional design language characteristic of Volkswagen, with subtle refinements over its T5 predecessor. It features a contemporary front fascia, updated lighting signatures, and a well-appointed interior that belies its utilitarian origins. Key features include a robust suspension system with independent McPherson struts at the front and a double wishbone setup at the rear, providing a comfortable and stable ride. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The electric power steering system ensures ease of maneuverability despite the vehicle’s size, contributing to a refined driving experience. Various tire and wheel options were available, ranging from 16-inch to 18-inch rims, allowing for customization and specific performance characteristics.

Technical Specifications for the Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG

Legacy & Market Impact: The Enduring Appeal of the Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long

The Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long, and indeed the entire T-series, holds a revered position in the European automotive landscape. It is not merely a vehicle but a cultural icon, tracing its roots back to the original Volkswagen Type 2 “Bus” of the 1950s. The T6 Multivan continued this legacy, evolving into a sophisticated, premium-segment minivan that transcended its commercial vehicle origins. In its primary markets, it competed fiercely with rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, Ford Transit Custom (Tourneo Custom variant), and the Opel Vivaro/Renault Trafic-based passenger vans, often outshining them with its superior build quality, refined driving dynamics, and the aspirational appeal of the Volkswagen badge.

Its market impact stemmed from its unparalleled versatility. For large families, it offered spacious and comfortable travel, often equipped with amenities comparable to luxury sedans. For businesses, it served as an executive shuttle, capable of transporting clients in comfort and style. Its robust construction, combined with the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, made it a popular choice for adventurers and those living in regions with challenging climates, further solidifying its reputation as a go-anywhere, do-anything vehicle. The “Long” variant specifically appealed to those requiring maximum interior volume, whether for additional passengers, extensive luggage, or specialized conversions like the popular California camper van (though the Multivan is distinct from the dedicated California).

While the Volkswagen Multivan (T6) Long was never officially imported or widely sold in the United States, its influence is recognized by automotive enthusiasts and experts globally. The US market, with its preference for larger SUVs and traditional minivans like the Chrysler Pacifica or Honda Odyssey, did not align with the Multivan’s premium pricing and diesel-centric powertrains. However, its engineering prowess, the enduring appeal of the Transporter lineage, and its success in Europe underscore its significance as a benchmark for practical, versatile, and refined people movers. The T6 generation concluded production in 2019, making way for the T6.1 facelift and eventually the T7 Multivan, but the T6 Long 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG remains a testament to Volkswagen’s ability to combine robust utility with a premium driving experience.