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 with 199 horsepower and a dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) in the L2H1 configuration, is a popular choice in the European market, serving as a versatile vehicle for both commercial and family use. While not officially sold in the United States in this specific configuration, the Transporter’s legacy is well-known through imported examples and its influence on the American van market.
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1: Overview
The T6.1 facelift was more than just cosmetic; it brought substantial changes to the vehicle’s technology and mechanicals. The Kombi body style offers a flexible interior layout, typically seating between four and nine passengers, making it suitable for passenger transport, tradespeople needing to carry both cargo and crew, or families requiring a spacious and adaptable vehicle. The L2H1 designation refers to the vehicle’s length (L2 – long wheelbase) and roof height (H1 – standard roof), providing a balance between interior space and maneuverability. The 2.0 TDI engine, coupled with the DSG transmission, delivers a blend of performance and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for a wide range of applications.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the T6.1 Kombi 2.0 TDI is a four-cylinder, inline diesel engine displacing 1,968 cubic centimeters (120.09 cubic inches). This engine, identified by the code EA288 / CXEC, produces 199 horsepower at 3,800-4,000 rpm and a substantial 450 Newton-meters (331.9 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,400 and 2,400 rpm. The bi-turbocharger setup, combined with an intercooler, contributes to both the engine’s power output and its responsiveness. Power per liter is rated at 101.1 hp/l. This engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG), which provides smooth and rapid gear changes. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to fuel efficiency. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.3 seconds and a maximum speed of 201 km/h (124.9 mph). The 0-60 mph time is calculated at 8.8 seconds. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6d TEMP-EVAP-ISC standards.
Design & Features
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Kombi is a van, typically offered with four or five doors. Its design emphasizes practicality and functionality, while the T6.1 facelift brought a more modern and refined aesthetic. Key features include a spacious and configurable interior, allowing for flexible seating arrangements and cargo capacity. The L2H1 configuration provides a generous 6,700 liters (236.61 cubic feet) of maximum trunk space. Safety features, standard for this generation, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control. The vehicle’s dimensions are as follows: length 5,304 mm (208.82 in), width 1,904 mm (74.96 in) – increasing to 2,297 mm (90.43 in) including mirrors – and height 1,990 mm (78.35 in). The wheelbase measures 3,400 mm (133.86 in). The vehicle’s kerb weight ranges from 1,981 to 2,274 kg (4,367.36 to 5,013.31 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 2,800 to 3,200 kg (6,172.94 to 7,054.79 lbs). Maximum load capacity is between 819 and 926 kg (1,805.59 and 2,041.48 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6.1, facelift 2019) Kombi |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (199 Hp) DSG L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 4-9 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1-8.4 l/100 km (33.1 – 28 US mpg, 39.8 – 33.6 UK mpg, 14.1 – 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5-6.8 l/100 km (42.8 – 34.6 US mpg, 51.4 – 41.5 UK mpg, 18.2 – 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1-7.4 l/100 km (38.6 – 31.8 US mpg, 46.3 – 38.2 UK mpg, 16.4 – 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 161-191 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 | 10 kg/Hp, 100.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227.2 Nm/tonne |
| 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 | 1981-2274 kg (4367.36 – 5013.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 819-926 kg (1805.59 – 2041.48 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 6700 l (236.61 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 | 5304 mm (208.82 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2297 mm (90.43 in.) |
| Height | 1990 mm (78.35 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 (turning diameter) | 13.2 m (43.31 ft.) |
| 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Kombi 2.0 TDI DSG L2H1 remains a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and efficient commercial or family vehicle, particularly in Europe. Its blend of practicality, performance, and technology ensures its continued relevance in a competitive market.
