The Volkswagen Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Panel Van: A European Commercial Icon
The Volkswagen Transporter, specifically the T5 generation that received a significant facelift in 2009, stands as a cornerstone in the European light commercial vehicle (LCV) market. The variant under review, the Volkswagen Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Panel Van 2.0 TDI BMT (140 Hp) L1H1, represents a highly practical and efficient workhorse produced between 2012 and 2015. While not directly sold in the United States in this panel van configuration, the Transporter lineage is globally recognized as a benchmark for commercial vans, known for its robustness, versatility, and car-like driving dynamics. This particular model, with its L1H1 designation, signifies a short wheelbase and standard roof height, making it an agile and capable vehicle for urban deliveries and various trade applications across Europe and other international markets. Its diesel powertrain, coupled with Volkswagen’s BlueMotion Technology (BMT), emphasized fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, crucial factors for businesses operating in regions with stringent environmental regulations and high fuel costs.
Engine and Performance: The 2.0 TDI BMT Powertrain in the Volkswagen Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Panel Van
At the heart of this Volkswagen Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Panel Van is a sophisticated 2.0-liter (1968 cm3 or 120.09 cu. in.) inline-four turbo-diesel engine, designated EA189 / CAAC. This engine, part of Volkswagen’s TDI (Turbocharged Direct Injection) family, is renowned for its blend of power, torque, and fuel efficiency. It delivers a robust 140 horsepower at 3500 rpm, providing ample power for hauling cargo or navigating challenging terrain. More importantly for a commercial vehicle, it produces a substantial 250.77 lb.-ft. of torque, available across a broad rev range from 1750 to 2500 rpm. This wide torque band ensures strong pulling power from low engine speeds, minimizing the need for frequent gear changes, especially when fully loaded.
The engine incorporates a common rail fuel injection system and a turbocharger with an intercooler, optimizing combustion and boosting power output efficiently. Its DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder further enhances performance and efficiency. The inclusion of BlueMotion Technology (BMT) signifies Volkswagen’s commitment to eco-friendliness, featuring a Start & Stop System and a particulate filter to meet Euro 5 emission standards. This technology contributes to impressive fuel economy figures for a vehicle of its size: a combined (NEDC) rating of 34.1 – 32.7 US mpg (6.9-7.2 l/100 km).
Power is channeled to the front wheels via a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual transmission, offering precise control and allowing the driver to optimize performance for varying load and road conditions. The Transporter’s acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a respectable 11.6 seconds, with a top speed of 107.5 mph (173 km/h), demonstrating that even as a commercial vehicle, it is capable of maintaining pace on highways. Its weight-to-power ratio of 12.3 kg/Hp (81.3 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 5.1 kg/Nm (197.4 Nm/tonne) underscore its efficient power delivery relative to its curb weight, which ranges from 3796.36 to 4713.48 lbs. (1722-2138 kg).
Design and Features: Practicality and Utility
The Volkswagen Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Panel Van is designed first and foremost for utility. Its panel van body type, with 4-5 doors and 2-3 seats, prioritizes cargo capacity and ease of access. The L1H1 designation indicates a short wheelbase (118.11 inches or 3000 mm) and standard roof, offering a good balance between maneuverability in urban environments and substantial cargo volume. With a length of 192.6 inches (4892 mm) and a width of 74.96 inches (1904 mm), it’s compact enough for city driving yet spacious enough for significant loads. The maximum trunk (boot) space is an impressive 204.83 cu. ft. (5800 liters), making it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications, from courier services to construction trades.
The robust construction is evident in its maximum payload capacity, ranging from 2341.31 to 2376.58 lbs. (1062-1078 kg), and a maximum gross weight of 6172.94 to 7054.79 lbs. (2800-3200 kg). The vehicle is also capable of towing, with a permitted trailer load of 5511.56 lbs. (2500 kg) with brakes, highlighting its versatility.
For driver comfort and safety, the T5 facelift features an independent McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, complemented by an independent coil spring rear suspension with transverse stabilizers and trailing arms. This setup provides a car-like ride quality and stable handling, reducing driver fatigue during long working hours. Safety is further enhanced by ventilated disc brakes on both front (308×29.5 mm) and rear (294×22 mm) axles, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The hydraulic rack and pinion power steering ensures precise control and ease of maneuvering, especially in tight spots. The 215/65 R16 tires on 6.5J x 16 wheel rims provide a good balance of load-carrying capability and ride comfort. Features like the Start & Stop System and a particulate filter not only improve fuel economy and reduce emissions but also reflect a modern approach to commercial vehicle design.
Technical Specifications for the Volkswagen Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Panel Van 2.0 TDI BMT (140 Hp) L1H1
| Category | Specification | US Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| General Information | ||
| Brand | Volkswagen | |
| Model | Transporter | |
| Generation | Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Panel Van | |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI BMT (140 Hp) L1H1 | |
| Start of Production | 2012 year | |
| End of Production | 2015 year | |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine | |
| Body type | Van | |
| Seats | 2-3 | |
| Doors | 4-5 | |
| Performance Specifications | ||
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.8-9.1 l/100 km | 26.7 – 25.8 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.8-6.1 l/100 km | 40.6 – 38.6 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.9-7.2 l/100 km | 34.1 – 32.7 US mpg |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 182-189 g/km | |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.6 sec | |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h | 107.5 mph |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 | |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp | 81.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm | 197.4 Nm/tonne |
| Engine Specifications | ||
| Power | 140 Hp @ 3500 rpm | |
| Power per liter | 71.1 Hp/l | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm | 250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse | |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CAAC | |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 | 2.0 l / 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 | 16.5:1 | |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 | |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail | |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler | |
| Valvetrain | DOHC | |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l | 7.4 US qt |
| Coolant | 11 l | 11.62 US qt |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter | |
| Space, Volume and Weights | ||
| Kerb Weight | 1722-2138 kg | 3796.36 – 4713.48 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg | 6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs. |
| Max load | 1062-1078 kg | 2341.31 – 2376.58 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 5800 l | 204.83 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l | 21.13 US 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. |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length | 4892 mm | 192.6 in. |
| Width | 1904 mm | 74.96 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2283 mm | 89.88 in. |
| Height | 1990 mm | 78.35 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm | 118.11 in. |
| Front overhang | 896 mm | 35.28 in. |
| Rear overhang | 996 mm | 39.21 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm | 7.91 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m | 39.04 ft. |
| Approach angle | 21° | |
| Departure angle | 17° | |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 14° | |
| Wading depth | 300 mm | 11.81 in. |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specifications | ||
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. | |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive | |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission | |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar | |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm | |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 308×29.5 mm | |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 294×22 mm | |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) | |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion | |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering | |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 | |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 | |
Legacy and Market Impact of the Volkswagen Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Panel Van
The Volkswagen Transporter series holds a legendary status in the automotive world, tracing its roots back to the iconic Type 2 “Bus.” The T5 generation, and particularly its facelifted version from 2009, continued this heritage, solidifying its position as a dominant force in the European and global light commercial vehicle markets. The Volkswagen Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Panel Van 2.0 TDI BMT (140 Hp) L1H1, produced from 2012 to 2015, was a significant contributor to this legacy, offering a compelling package of reliability, efficiency, and practical utility.
In its primary markets, this Transporter was highly regarded for its robust build quality and impressive durability, making it a favorite among small businesses, fleet operators, and tradespeople. Its car-like driving dynamics, superior comfort compared to many rivals, and strong resale values were key selling points. The 2.0 TDI BMT engine, in particular, was praised for its balance of power and exceptional fuel economy, an essential consideration for commercial users who track operating costs meticulously. The BlueMotion Technology package, with its Start & Stop system and particulate filter, also addressed the growing demand for more environmentally friendly commercial vehicles, aligning with European emission standards.
The Transporter faced stiff competition from rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz Vito, Ford Transit Custom, Renault Trafic, and Opel Vivaro (Vauxhall Vivaro in the UK). However, the Transporter consistently stood out due to its perceived premium quality, refined driving experience, and the extensive network of Volkswagen commercial vehicle service centers. Its modular design allowed for a vast array of configurations, from basic panel vans to passenger-carrying kombi models and high-end Caravelle/Multivan variants, catering to a diverse customer base.
Despite its specific panel van configuration not being a common sight in the American market, the T5 Transporter’s influence on global commercial vehicle design and engineering is undeniable. It set high standards for efficiency, driver ergonomics, and load-carrying capability within its segment. The T5 facelift, with its updated styling, improved engines, and enhanced features, ensured the Transporter remained at the forefront of the LCV market until its eventual replacement by the T6 generation. Its reputation for being a dependable workhorse continues to make used T5s a popular choice, cementing its status as a true automotive icon in the commercial sector.
