The Volkswagen Transporter, a name synonymous with versatility and reliability in the commercial vehicle segment, saw its sixth generation, the T6, continue this storied legacy. Produced from 2016 to 2019, the Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L1H2 represented a significant evolution in Volkswagen’s light commercial vehicle offerings, particularly for European and international markets where such vans are indispensable for businesses and trades. While not a direct retail product in the United States in the same form, the Transporter series has historically influenced commercial vehicle design globally. This specific variant, with its potent 2.0-liter TDI engine, advanced 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, and efficient DSG automatic transmission, combined the practicality of a panel van with performance and capability often unexpected in its class. Its L1H2 designation signifies a standard wheelbase (L1) paired with a high roof (H2), optimizing cargo volume for a wide array of professional applications.
The Robust Powertrain: Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L1H2
At the heart of this formidable commercial vehicle lies Volkswagen’s acclaimed EA288 / CXEB 2.0-liter TDI engine, a testament to modern diesel engineering. This inline four-cylinder unit, with a displacement of 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.), is configured transversally at the front. What truly sets this engine apart is its BiTurbo aspiration system, combined with an intercooler, which allows it to deliver an impressive 204 horsepower at 4000 rpm. This power output, equating to a robust 103.7 Hp per liter, is remarkable for a vehicle designed primarily for utility. More crucial for a commercial van, however, is the torque, and the 2.0 TDI delivers a substantial 450 Nm (331.9 lb.-ft.) across a broad and usable rev range, specifically from 1400 to 2400 rpm. This low-end torque is pivotal for hauling heavy loads, navigating urban environments, and maintaining momentum on inclines without constant gear changes.
The engine employs a sophisticated Diesel Commonrail fuel injection system and a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimal combustion efficiency. With a compression ratio of 15.5:1, it is engineered for maximum energy extraction from diesel fuel. Furthermore, this powertrain integrates modern environmental technologies, including a Start & Stop System and a Particulate filter, enabling it to meet stringent Euro 6 emission standards. The engine oil capacity is 7.4 liters (7.82 US qt), designed for extended service intervals typical of commercial fleet operations.
Power delivery to the road is handled by a sophisticated 7-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission. This dual-clutch system provides rapid, seamless gear changes, contributing to both driving comfort and fuel efficiency. Coupled with the advanced 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, the Transporter (T6) Panel Van offers exceptional traction and stability. The drivetrain architecture is intelligent: the internal combustion engine primarily drives the front wheels, with the rear wheels engaging through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch only when additional traction is required. This adaptive system optimizes fuel consumption under normal driving conditions while providing superior grip on challenging surfaces, making the van suitable for diverse terrains and weather conditions, a critical advantage for professionals whose work takes them off paved roads or through inclement weather.
Performance and Efficiency Metrics
Despite its commercial designation, the Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L1H2 demonstrates surprising performance figures. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 8.7 seconds, with 0-100 km/h achieved in 9.2 seconds, and reach a maximum speed of 119.92 mph (193 km/h). These figures underscore its ability to keep pace with traffic and even out accelerate many passenger cars, which is beneficial for time-sensitive deliveries or long-haul journeys. The weight-to-power ratio stands at 9.3 kg/Hp (107.1 Hp/tonne), and the weight-to-torque ratio is 4.2 kg/Nm (236.3 Nm/tonne), indicating a well-balanced power-to-weight characteristic for a vehicle of its class.
Fuel efficiency is a critical consideration for commercial operators, and the T6 Panel Van with this powertrain offers competitive figures. Based on the NEDC cycle, combined fuel consumption ranges from 6.5-6.9 l/100 km, translating to approximately 36.2 – 34.1 US mpg. Urban consumption is rated at 7.5-7.9 l/100 km (31.4 – 29.8 US mpg), while extra-urban driving yields 5.9-6.3 l/100 km (39.9 – 37.3 US mpg). CO2 emissions are between 169-180 g/km, aligning with its Euro 6 compliance. A generous 70-liter (18.49 US gal) fuel tank ensures a substantial driving range, reducing downtime for refueling, further complemented by a 13-liter (3.43 US gal) AdBlue tank for emission control.
Design and Features: Practicality Meets Modernity
The Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L1H2 stands as a highly capable and meticulously engineered commercial vehicle, embodying Volkswagen’s commitment to durability, performance, and efficiency for the professional user.
Technical Specifications: Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L1H2
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L1H2 |
| Start of Production | 2016 year |
| End of Production | 2019 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body Type | Van |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban, NEDC) | 7.5-7.9 l/100 km (31.4 – 29.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban, NEDC) | 5.9-6.3 l/100 km (39.9 – 37.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined, NEDC) | 6.5-6.9 l/100 km (36.2 – 34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 Emissions (NEDC) | 169-180 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission Standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp (107.1 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm (236.3 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per Liter | 103.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1400-2400 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXEB |
| 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) |
| Engine Systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 1904-2221 kg (4197.6 – 4896.47 lbs.) |
| Max. Weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max Load | 896-979 kg (1975.34 – 2158.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Maximum | 6700 l (236.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal) |
| AdBlue Tank | 13 l (3.43 US 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 | 2177 mm (85.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Front Overhang | 908 mm (35.75 in.) |
| Rear Overhang | 993 mm (39.09 in.) |
| Ride Height (Ground Clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 in.) |
| Minimum Turning Circle (Turning Diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Approach Angle | 21.2° |
| Departure Angle | 16.2° |
| Ramp-over (Brakeover) Angle | 13.7° |
| Climb Angle | 37° |
| Wading Depth | 300 mm (11.81 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels permanently, rear wheels driven via 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, 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 |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires Size | 215/60 R17; 215/65 R17; 235/55 R17; 255/45 R18 |
