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 generation, the T6.1, is a direct evolution of the T6, bringing updated styling, enhanced technology, and improved efficiency. The Kombi variant, specifically the 2.0 TDI model with 199 horsepower and a dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) in the L1H1 configuration, is a popular choice for businesses and families requiring a versatile and practical vehicle. While the Transporter is a global model, its role is particularly prominent in Europe, where it serves as a workhorse for tradespeople, a base for camper conversions, and a family vehicle. This article details the specifications and characteristics of the 2019-2021 Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Kombi 2.0 TDI (199 Hp) DSG L1H1.
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1: Overview
The T6.1 generation of the Volkswagen Transporter was introduced in 2019 as a comprehensive update to the T6. The facelift included revised exterior styling, a modernized interior with improved technology, and enhancements to the vehicle’s safety features. The Kombi designation indicates a passenger-carrying version, offering seating for between four and nine occupants, making it suitable for both commercial and personal use. The ‘2.0 TDI’ signifies the engine type – a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine – while ‘DSG’ denotes the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. ‘L1H1’ refers to the vehicle’s body configuration, indicating a standard wheelbase and a low roof height.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Transporter T6.1 Kombi 2.0 TDI (199 Hp) is a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine, identified by the EA288 / CXEC engine code. This engine utilizes a bi-turbocharger system with an intercooler, delivering a maximum power output of 199 horsepower at 3800-4000 rpm and a substantial 450 Newton-meters (331.9 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1400 and 2400 rpm. This broad torque band provides strong pulling power and responsive acceleration. The engine features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 15.5:1. The power-to-weight ratio is 9.7 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.3 kg/Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.3 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in 8.8 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 201 km/h (124.9 mph). Fuel economy figures, measured using the NEDC and WLTP standards, range from 6.1 to 7.1 liters per 100 kilometers (38.6 to 33.1 US mpg), with CO2 emissions between 160 and 186 grams per kilometer.
Design & Features
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Kombi is a front-engine, front-wheel-drive van with a body-on-frame construction. It is available with 4 or 5 doors. The L1H1 configuration provides a practical balance between interior space and maneuverability. The vehicle’s design emphasizes functionality and durability, with a robust exterior and a spacious interior. Key features include a comfortable cabin, a versatile seating arrangement, and a large cargo area with a maximum capacity of 5800 liters (204.83 cubic feet). Modern safety features, standard for this generation, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. The T6.1 also incorporates a Start & Stop system to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, along with a particulate filter to minimize harmful exhaust particles. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4904 mm (193.07 in) in length, 1904 mm (74.96 in) in width, and 1990 mm (78.35 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 3000 mm (118.11 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6.1, facelift 2019) Kombi |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (199 Hp) DSG L1H1 |
| Start of production | 2019 year |
| End of production | 2021 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 4-9 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.1-8.2 l/100 km (33.1 – 28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.5-6.4 l/100 km (42.8 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.1-7.1 l/100 km (38.6 – 33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 160-186 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 199 Hp @ 3800-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1400-2400 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXEC |
| 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 | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1924-2274 kg (4241.69 – 5013.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 876-926 kg (1931.25 – 2041.48 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 5800 l (204.83 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 |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Kombi 2.0 TDI (199 Hp) DSG L1H1 continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a versatile, efficient, and reliable commercial or passenger vehicle. Its blend of practicality, performance, and modern technology ensures its continued relevance in a competitive market.
