The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the Transporter T6.1 following a significant facelift in 2019, is a versatile light commercial vehicle and passenger van. This generation represents an evolution of the T6, bringing updated styling, enhanced technology, and improved efficiency. The T6.1 continued Volkswagen’s long tradition of producing practical and reliable vans, popular in Europe as both work vehicles and family transport. While not widely sold in the United States due to the popularity of American-made vans and pickup trucks, the Transporter holds a significant position in the European market, offering a compelling blend of functionality, comfort, and driving dynamics. The Kombi variant, specifically the 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L2H3 model, caters to those needing a flexible vehicle capable of carrying passengers and cargo, with the added benefit of all-wheel drive for enhanced traction.
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1: Overview
The T6.1 generation of the Volkswagen Transporter, launched in 2019, was more than just a cosmetic update. It incorporated substantial mechanical revisions, aligning the vehicle with stricter Euro 6d emission standards. The “T6.1” designation signifies this significant upgrade over the preceding T6 model. The Kombi body style, as featured here, offers a flexible interior layout, typically accommodating between four and nine passengers, alongside a generous cargo area. The L2H3 designation refers to the vehicle’s length and height – ‘L2’ indicating a longer wheelbase and ‘H3’ denoting a higher roof, maximizing interior space. The 2.0 TDI engine, coupled with a 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and a 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, provides a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Transporter T6.1 Kombi 2.0 TDI is a 1,968 cc (120.09 cubic inches) inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, part of Volkswagen’s EA288 series, produces 150 horsepower at 3,250-3,750 rpm and 340 Nm (250.77 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to both power output and efficiency. Power is delivered to all four wheels via Volkswagen’s 4MOTION system, an intelligent all-wheel-drive setup that normally operates in front-wheel drive but seamlessly engages the rear wheels when traction is needed. The 7-speed DSG transmission provides smooth and rapid gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.5 seconds, while the vehicle reaches a maximum speed of 179 km/h (111.23 mph). Fuel economy figures, measured using the NEDC standard (and equivalent WLTP figures), range from 7.3 to 7.9 l/100 km (32.2 to 29.8 US mpg, or 38.7 to 35.8 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Kombi boasts a functional and practical design. Its van body style provides a large, versatile interior space. The L2H3 configuration maximizes cargo capacity, reaching up to 9,300 liters (328.43 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded. The Kombi variant offers flexible seating arrangements, typically accommodating between four and nine passengers. The exterior design features updated front-end styling compared to the T6, with a more prominent grille and revised headlights. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed for both passenger comfort and load-carrying capability. The interior is typically equipped with practical features such as durable upholstery, ample storage compartments, and a user-friendly dashboard layout. Modern examples often include infotainment systems with touchscreen displays, Bluetooth connectivity, and driver-assistance technologies. The vehicle’s dimensions – a length of 5,304 mm (208.82 inches), a width of 1,904 mm (74.96 inches), and a height of 2,477 mm (97.52 inches) – reflect its focus on maximizing interior space within a manageable footprint.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6.1, facelift 2019) Kombi |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L2H3 |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 4-9 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1-8.7 l/100 km (29-27 US mpg, 34.9-32.5 UK mpg, 12.3-11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8-7.5 l/100 km (34.6-31.4 US mpg, 41.5-37.7 UK mpg, 14.7-13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3-7.9 l/100 km (32.2-29.8 US mpg, 38.7-35.8 UK mpg, 13.7-12.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 192-207 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 71.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 162.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3250-3750 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| 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 | 2088-2399 kg (4603.25 – 5288.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3000-3200 kg (6613.87 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 801-912 kg (1765.9 – 2010.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 9300 l (328.43 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) |
| 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 | 5304 mm (208.82 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2297 mm (90.43 in.) |
| Height | 2477 mm (97.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3400 mm (133.86 in.) |
| Front overhang | 906 mm (35.67 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 998 mm (39.29 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 202 mm (7.95 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.2 m (43.31 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Kombi 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG L2H3 represents a well-rounded package for those seeking a practical, efficient, and capable van. Its blend of performance, space, and all-wheel-drive capability makes it a popular choice in its segment, particularly in European markets.
