The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the T6 generation from 2015 to 2019, represents a significant evolution in Volkswagen’s long-running commercial vehicle lineage. This iteration of the Transporter, available in various configurations including the Panel Van, Kombi, and Caravelle, served as a workhorse for businesses and a versatile platform for camper conversions across Europe and other markets. While not directly sold in the United States during this generation, the Transporter’s influence on the van market is global, and it’s a popular import for enthusiasts. The 2.0 TSI (204 Hp) DSG L1H1 variant, detailed here, combines a turbocharged gasoline engine with a dual-clutch transmission, offering a balance of performance and efficiency for commercial and personal use.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TSI: An Overview
The T6 Transporter built upon the success of its predecessors, offering improved refinement, technology, and safety features. The “L1H1” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length and roof height – a standard wheelbase and a lower roof, making it a practical choice for urban environments and applications where outright cargo volume isn’t the primary concern. The 2.0 TSI engine was a key offering, providing a more powerful alternative to the diesel engines prevalent in Europe, and appealing to customers seeking a gasoline-powered option.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Transporter 2.0 TSI L1H1 lies the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, producing 204 horsepower at 4,200-6,000 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. This engine, identified by the code CJKA, utilizes direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to deliver responsive performance. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), known for its quick and smooth gear changes. This combination allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.4 seconds and a maximum speed of 202 km/h (125.52 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 8.8 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.1 kg/Nm, contributing to its lively driving experience. Fuel economy, measured using the NEDC standard, ranges from 8.9 to 9.7 l/100 km (26.4 to 24.2 US mpg) combined, with urban consumption between 11.4 and 12.3 l/100 km (20.6 to 19.1 US mpg) and extra-urban figures of 7.4 to 8.2 l/100 km (31.8 to 28.7 US mpg). CO2 emissions fall within the range of 203-220 g/km.
Design & Features
The T6 Transporter Panel Van maintains the classic van silhouette, characterized by its boxy shape and practical design. The L1H1 configuration offers a length of 4,904 mm (193.07 in), a width of 1,904 mm (74.96 in), and a height of 1,990 mm (78.35 in). The van typically accommodates 2-3 occupants and features 4-5 doors for easy access. A key feature of the T6 was its improved interior, offering a more car-like driving experience compared to earlier generations. The dashboard layout is functional and ergonomic, with a focus on usability. Safety features, crucial in a modern commercial vehicle, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed for load-carrying. The T6 also incorporated a Start & Stop system to improve fuel efficiency. The cargo area provides a maximum volume of 5,800 liters (204.83 cu. ft.), making it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications. The vehicle boasts a kerb weight ranging from 1,793 to 2,110 kg (3,952.89 to 4,651.75 lbs) and a maximum permissible weight of 2,800 to 3,200 kg (6,172.94 to 7,054.79 lbs), allowing for a substantial payload of 1,007 to 1,090 kg (2,220.05 to 2,403.04 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TSI (204 Hp) DSG L1H1 |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 11.4-12.3 l/100 km (20.6 – 19.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.4-8.2 l/100 km (31.8 – 28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8.9-9.7 l/100 km (26.4 – 24.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 203-220 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 4200-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CJKA |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1793-2110 kg (3952.89 – 4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1007-1090 kg (2220.05 – 2403.04 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 5800 l (204.83 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 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 | 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.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6 2.0 TSI L1H1 represents a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and modern technology, making it a popular choice for commercial users and conversion enthusiasts alike.
