The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the Bulli in some markets, is a mainstay of the commercial vehicle segment in Europe and beyond. The T6.1 generation, a significant facelift of the T6, arrived in 2019, bringing with it updated styling, enhanced technology, and improved efficiency. This article focuses on the 2021-2022 Volkswagen Transporter (T6.1) Kombi Crew Van, specifically the 2.0 TDI variant producing 204 horsepower, equipped with a 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and a 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox). While not officially sold in the United States in this specific configuration, the Transporter has a long history as a versatile workhorse and passenger carrier, and similar van models from other manufacturers are popular in the US market.
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1: Overview
The T6.1 represents a substantial update to the T6, rather than a complete ground-up redesign. It aimed to address criticisms of the T6’s interior and bring the vehicle more in line with contemporary Volkswagen design language and technology. The Kombi Crew Van configuration offers a blend of commercial practicality and passenger comfort, seating up to six occupants. The 2.0 TDI engine, coupled with the 4MOTION system, provides a balance of performance, fuel economy, and all-weather capability, making it a popular choice for businesses and families alike in European markets.
Engine & Performance
The heart of this Transporter is the 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine (EA288MAR / DMZA). This four-cylinder engine delivers 204 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 450 Nm (331.9 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1400 and 2250 rpm. The bi-turbo configuration, utilizing an intercooler, contributes to both responsiveness and efficiency. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, which intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear axles as needed. The 7-speed DSG automatic transmission provides smooth and rapid gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.1 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in 8.6 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 199 km/h (123.65 mph).
Design & Features
The T6.1 Transporter Kombi Crew Van is a practical and versatile vehicle, characterized by its van body style and available in both 4- and 5-door configurations. The facelift brought a more modern front fascia, with a redesigned grille and headlights. Inside, the T6.1 features a more car-like dashboard and improved materials, enhancing the overall driving experience. The Kombi Crew Van layout offers flexible seating arrangements, with the ability to fold or remove seats to maximize cargo space. Standard features typically include air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system, and various driver-assistance systems. Safety features, crucial in a modern commercial vehicle, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive suite of stability control systems. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4904 mm (193.07 in) in length, 1904 mm (74.96 in) in width, and 1990 mm (78.35 in) in height – provide a good balance between interior space and maneuverability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6.1, facelift 2019) Kombi Crew Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L1H1 |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1-8.4 l/100 km (29 – 28 US mpg, 34.9 – 33.6 UK mpg, 12.3 – 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6-6.9 l/100 km (35.6 – 34.1 US mpg, 42.8 – 40.9 UK mpg, 15.2 – 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2-7.5 l/100 km (32.7 – 31.4 US mpg, 39.2 – 37.7 UK mpg, 13.9 – 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 189-197 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 199 km/h (123.65 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 205.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1400-2250 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288MAR / DMZA |
| 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 | 2189-2380 kg (4825.92 – 5247 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3000-3200 kg (6613.87 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 811-820 kg (1787.95 – 1807.79 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 | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels driven by clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 340×32.5 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 294×22 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17; 235/55 R17; 255/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 8J x 18 |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Kombi Crew Van 2.0 TDI 4MOTION DSG L1H1 remains a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and capable commercial vehicle, particularly in markets where it is readily available. Its blend of practicality, performance, and technology makes it a popular choice for a wide range of applications.
