The Volkswagen Transporter, specifically the T6 generation Panel Van 2.0 TSI (204 Hp) DSG L2H2, represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s long-running commercial vehicle lineage. Produced from 2015 to 2019, this variant caters to a diverse range of commercial and personal transport needs, particularly within the European market. While not widely sold in the United States due to import restrictions and differing market preferences for larger vans, the Transporter is a staple for businesses and tradespeople across Europe, known for its practicality, reliability, and increasingly, its car-like driving experience.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TSI: An Overview
The T6 Transporter built upon the success of its predecessors, offering improved fuel efficiency, enhanced safety features, and a more refined interior. The “L2H2” designation indicates a long wheelbase and high roof configuration, maximizing cargo space. The 2.0 TSI engine, coupled with the dual-clutch DSG transmission, provides a balance of performance and economy, making it suitable for both urban deliveries and longer highway journeys. This model is a key component of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ strategy to offer a versatile and modern van solution.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the T6 Panel Van 2.0 TSI lies a 1.984-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated EA888 / CJKA. This engine produces 204 horsepower at 4,200-6,000 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. The direct injection system and turbocharger contribute to both power output and fuel efficiency. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 9.1 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.3 kg/Nm. Paired with the 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission, the van achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 8.5 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 8.1 seconds. Its maximum speed is electronically limited to 196 km/h (121.79 mph). Fuel economy, measured using the NEDC standard, ranges from 8.9 to 9.9 liters per 100 kilometers (26.4 to 23.8 US mpg), with CO2 emissions between 203 and 224 g/km. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system further aids in reducing fuel consumption in urban environments.
Design & Features
The T6 Transporter Panel Van boasts a functional and practical design. Its body type is a traditional van, offering 4-5 doors and seating for 2-3 occupants. The L2H2 configuration provides a substantial cargo volume of 7,800 liters (275.45 cubic feet). The vehicle’s dimensions are 5,304 mm (208.82 in) in length, 1,904 mm (74.96 in) in width, and 2,170 mm (85.43 in) in height. A key design element is its focus on maximizing usable space while maintaining a relatively compact footprint for maneuverability in urban settings. The T6 incorporated advancements in safety technology for its time, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed for load-bearing capabilities. The kerb weight ranges from 1,849 to 2,166 kg (4,076.35 to 4,775.21 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 2,800 to 3,200 kg (6,172.94 to 7,054.79 lbs). It has a fuel tank capacity of 80 liters (21.13 US gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TSI (204 Hp) DSG L2H2 |
| Start of production | 2015 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) | 11.4-12.3 l/100 km (20.6 – 19.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.4-8.5 l/100 km (31.8 – 27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8.9-9.9 l/100 km (26.4 – 23.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 203-224 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 196 km/h (121.79 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1849-2166 kg (4076.35 – 4775.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 951-1034 kg (2096.6 – 2279.58 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 7800 l (275.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5304 mm (208.82 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Height | 2170 mm (85.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3400 mm (133.86 in.) |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6 2.0 TSI DSG L2H2 remains a popular choice for businesses and individuals requiring a versatile and reliable van. Its blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality ensures its continued relevance in the competitive commercial vehicle market.
