The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the Transporter T6.1 following a significant facelift in 2019, is a versatile light commercial vehicle and passenger van produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. This generation, building upon the T6 platform, represents a refinement of a lineage stretching back to the iconic Type 2 “Bus.” The T6.1, particularly the Kombi Crew Van variant with the 2.0 TDI 150 horsepower engine and 4MOTION all-wheel drive, caters to a broad market, offering a balance of practicality, efficiency, and capability. While not directly sold in the United States in this specific configuration, the Transporter is a mainstay in European markets, serving as a workhorse for tradespeople, families, and adventure seekers alike. This article details the 2021-2022 model year, focusing on the 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L1H1 configuration.
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1: Overview and Market Position
The T6.1 generation of the Volkswagen Transporter introduced a modernized exterior and interior, along with updated technology and improved efficiency. The “Kombi Crew Van” body style specifically designates a configuration designed to carry both passengers and cargo, typically seating 5-6 occupants. The L1H1 designation refers to the vehicle’s wheelbase and roof height – L1 indicating a shorter wheelbase, and H1 denoting a standard roof. The 2.0 TDI engine, coupled with the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and a 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, provides a compelling combination of performance and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for those requiring a robust and adaptable vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Transporter T6.1 2.0 TDI is a 1,968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, identified by the Volkswagen internal code EA288MAR / DNAA, 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 enhanced power delivery and efficiency. The 7-speed DSG transmission provides smooth and rapid gear changes, optimizing performance and fuel consumption. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction in various conditions, distributing power between the front and rear axles as needed. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.5 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in 10.9 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 178 km/h (110.6 mph). Fuel economy figures, measured using the NEDC and WLTP standards, range from 6.8 to 7.6 l/100 km (34.6-30.9 US mpg, 41.5-37.2 UK mpg, 14.7-13.2 km/l) combined.
Design & Features
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Kombi Crew Van is a four or five-door van designed for versatility. Its robust construction and practical interior layout make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Key features include a spacious cabin capable of accommodating up to six passengers, a flexible seating arrangement, and a generous cargo area with a maximum capacity of 3,500 liters (123.6 cu. ft.). The vehicle incorporates modern safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and advanced driver-assistance systems (availability varies by market and trim level). The T6.1 facelift brought updated styling cues, including a revised front fascia, new headlights, and a more contemporary interior design. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4,904 mm (193.07 in) in length, 1,904 mm (74.96 in) in width, and 1,990 mm (78.35 in) in height. Ground clearance is 201 mm (7.91 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6.1, facelift 2019) Kombi Crew Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L1H1 |
| Start of production | 2021 year |
| End of production | 2022 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.6-8.4 l/100 km (30.9 – 28 US mpg, 37.2 – 33.6 UK mpg, 13.2 – 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.3-7 l/100 km (37.3 – 33.6 US mpg, 44.8 – 40.4 UK mpg, 15.9 – 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.8-7.6 l/100 km (34.6 – 30.9 US mpg, 41.5 – 37.2 UK mpg, 14.7 – 13.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 179-199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.3 kg/Hp, 69.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 158.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3250-3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288MAR / DNAA |
| 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 | 2150-2380 kg (4739.94 – 5247 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3000-3200 kg (6613.87 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 820-850 kg (1807.79 – 1873.93 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3500 l (123.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 22 l (5.81 US gal | 4.84 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 (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 308×29.5 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 294×22 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 continues to be a popular choice for commercial and personal use, offering a blend of practicality, reliability, and modern features. Its robust construction, efficient engine, and available all-wheel-drive system make it a capable and versatile vehicle for a wide range of tasks.
