The Volkswagen Transporter (T6) generation, produced from 2016 to 2019, represents a significant evolution in Volkswagen’s venerable commercial vehicle lineup, building upon a legacy that stretches back decades. As a cornerstone of the European light commercial vehicle (LCV) market, the Transporter has consistently set benchmarks for versatility, reliability, and robust engineering. The specific variant, the Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L2H1, exemplifies the pinnacle of performance and capability within its class. This particular configuration combines a potent diesel engine with advanced all-wheel-drive technology and a sophisticated automatic transmission, making it an ideal choice for businesses requiring superior traction, efficiency, and load-carrying capacity across diverse operational environments. Its role as a workhorse is undeniable, providing a platform for countless modifications and specialized applications, from courier services to mobile workshops.
Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L2H1
At the core of this robust panel van lies a formidable 2.0-liter TDI (Turbocharged Direct Injection) engine, a testament to Volkswagen’s engineering prowess in diesel powertrain development. This inline four-cylinder unit, with an engine displacement of 1968 cm³ (120.09 cu. in.), delivers an impressive 204 horsepower at 4000 rpm. Its advanced design incorporates a bi-turbocharger system and an intercooler, ensuring optimal air intake and combustion efficiency across a wide range of engine speeds. This setup is crucial for a commercial vehicle, providing not only peak power for highway cruising but also substantial low-end torque for heavy loads and challenging terrain.
The torque output is particularly noteworthy, with a maximum of 450 Nm (331.9 lb.-ft.) available across a broad rev range from 1400 to 2400 rpm. This flat torque curve translates into excellent responsiveness and pulling power, allowing the Transporter to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 8.6 seconds, and reach a maximum speed of 123.65 mph. These figures are remarkable for a commercial panel van, highlighting its ability to keep pace with traffic and maintain efficiency even when fully loaded. Power is managed by a sophisticated 7-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission, which offers seamless gear changes and contributes significantly to both performance and fuel economy. The DSG’s rapid shifts ensure that the engine remains in its optimal power band, minimizing energy loss and maximizing driver comfort.
Further enhancing its capability is Volkswagen’s renowned 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. This intelligent drivetrain architecture primarily powers the front wheels, with the rear wheels engaging automatically via an electrically or mechanically operated clutch when additional traction is required. This system provides superior grip and stability in adverse weather conditions, on slippery surfaces, or when navigating unpaved roads, making the Transporter an incredibly versatile tool for businesses operating in varied environments. Despite its potent performance and all-wheel-drive capability, the 2.0 TDI engine is designed for efficiency, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. Fuel consumption figures are competitive for its class: 36.2 – 33.1 US mpg combined, with urban figures ranging from 31.4 – 29.8 US mpg and extra-urban figures from 39.9 – 35.6 US mpg. This balance of power, traction, and efficiency underscores the thoughtful engineering behind the Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L2H1, making it a highly desirable asset for commercial fleets.
Design and Features: Practicality Meets Modernity
The design of the Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L2H1 is inherently functional, prioritizing utility and durability, yet it carries the understated elegance typical of Volkswagen’s design language. As a panel van, its primary purpose is cargo transport, reflected in its robust body type and spacious interior. This particular variant, designated L2H1, signifies a long wheelbase (3400 mm or 133.86 in.) and a standard roof height (1990 mm or 78.35 in.), offering an optimal balance between maneuverability and cargo volume. The overall length of 5304 mm (208.82 in.) and width of 1904 mm (74.96 in.) (2297 mm or 90.43 in. including mirrors) contribute to a substantial road presence and impressive cargo capacity.
Inside, the Transporter Panel Van is designed with the working professional in mind. It typically accommodates 2-3 seats, configured for comfort and practicality during long working hours. The cabin emphasizes ergonomics, with controls placed intuitively and ample storage solutions for documents and personal items. While not a luxury vehicle, the interior materials are hard-wearing and easy to clean, essential for a commercial vehicle’s demanding life cycle. The focus is on creating a functional workspace, with modern conveniences integrated seamlessly.
The cargo area is the heart of the panel van, offering a generous maximum volume of 6700 liters (236.61 cu. ft.). This expansive space, combined with a maximum payload capacity ranging from 1849.68 to 2032.66 lbs. (839-922 kg), allows for the transport of substantial goods and equipment. The robust construction is complemented by practical features such as multiple doors (4-5 depending on configuration) for easy loading and unloading. Furthermore, the Transporter is highly capable as a towing vehicle, with a permitted trailer load of 5511.56 lbs. (2500 kg) with brakes, and a towbar download capacity of 220.46 lbs. (100 kg), extending its utility for various business needs.
Underpinning its capability are a well-engineered chassis and suspension system. The front features an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear employs an independent coil spring and wishbone arrangement with a transverse stabilizer. This configuration provides a comfortable ride for a commercial vehicle, alongside stable handling, even when fully loaded. Braking is handled by ventilated discs both front (340×32.5 mm) and rear (294×22 mm), supported by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety and control. Hydraulic steering rack and pinion ensures precise control, crucial for maneuvering in tight urban environments or on challenging job sites. The vehicle is also equipped with modern engine systems like Start & Stop technology to improve fuel efficiency in traffic, and a particulate filter to reduce emissions, aligning with contemporary environmental standards. The option of various tire sizes, from 215/60 R17 to 255/45 R18, on corresponding wheel rims (7J x 17 to 8J x 18), allows for customization based on specific load requirements or driving conditions, further solidifying its versatile and practical design.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L2H1 |
| 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 (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 31.4 – 29.8 US mpg (7.5-7.9 l/100 km) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 39.9 – 35.6 US mpg (5.9-6.6 l/100 km) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 36.2 – 33.1 US mpg (6.5-7.1 l/100 km) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 169-185 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 123.65 mph (199 km/h) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 104 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per liter | 103.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2400 rpm (450 Nm @ 1400-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXEB |
| Engine displacement | 120.09 cu. in. (1968 cm³) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.19 in. (81 mm) |
| Piston Stroke | 3.76 in. (95.5 mm) |
| 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 | 7.82 US qt (7.4 l) |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System, Particulate filter |
| Kerb Weight | 4323.26 – 5022.13 lbs. (1961-2278 kg) |
| Max. weight | 6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs. (2800-3200 kg) |
| Max load | 1849.68 – 2032.66 lbs. (839-922 kg) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 236.61 cu. ft. (6700 l) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 18.49 US gal (70 l) |
| AdBlue tank | 3.43 US gal (13 l) |
| Max. roof load | 220.46 lbs. (100 kg) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5511.56 lbs. (2500 kg) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 1653.47 lbs. (750 kg) |
| Permitted towbar download | 220.46 lbs. (100 kg) |
| Length | 208.82 in. (5304 mm) |
| Width | 74.96 in. (1904 mm) |
| Width including mirrors | 90.43 in. (2297 mm) |
| Height | 78.35 in. (1990 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 133.86 in. (3400 mm) |
| Front overhang | 35.75 in. (908 mm) |
| Rear overhang | 39.09 in. (993 mm) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 7.95 in. (202 mm) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 43.31 ft. (13.2 m) |
| Approach angle | 21.2° |
| Departure angle | 16.2° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 12.2° |
| 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, type 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 8J x 18 |



