Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caravelle |
| Generation | Caravelle (T6.1, facelift 2019) Long |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (199 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 4-9 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4-8.3 l/100 km (31.8 – 28.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6-6.4 l/100 km (42 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3-7.1 l/100 km (37.3 – 33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 165-187 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 201 km/h (124.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 199 Hp @ 3800-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1400-2400 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXEC |
| 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 | 2138-2374 kg (4713.48 – 5233.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3080-3200 kg (6790.24 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 826-942 kg (1821.02 – 2076.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 6700 l (236.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 13 l (3.43 US gal | 2.86 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 | 5304 mm (208.82 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2297 mm (90.43 in.) |
| Height | 1990 mm (78.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3400 mm (133.86 in.) |
| Front overhang | 906 mm (35.67 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 998 mm (39.29 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 202 mm (7.95 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.2 m (43.31 ft.) |
| 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 |
| Gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17; 235/55 R17; 255/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 8J x 18 |
The Volkswagen Caravelle T6.1, launched in 2019 following a comprehensive facelift of the T6, continued the tradition of offering a spacious and versatile passenger vehicle. The long wheelbase version, as featured here with the 2.0 TDI 199hp DSG powertrain, provided increased rear passenger space and cargo capacity, making it ideal for larger families or shuttle services. This particular engine and transmission combination aimed to deliver a balance between fuel efficiency, respectable performance, and the convenience of an automatic gearbox. The T6.1 generation benefitted from updated safety features, improved infotainment systems, and a more refined interior compared to its predecessor.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Caravelle variant lies the EA288 series 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, specifically the CXEC code. This engine utilizes a bi-turbocharger setup – a low-pressure turbocharger combined with a high-pressure turbocharger – to deliver a broad torque curve and minimize turbo lag. The engine employs a common rail direct injection system, operating at a high compression ratio of 15.5:1. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, further enhances breathing and efficiency. The 7-speed DSG (Dual Clutch Gearbox) provides quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The DSG’s programming is tuned to prioritize comfort and efficiency in typical driving conditions, with a sport mode available for more spirited acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 199 horsepower and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.0 TDI engine, coupled with the 7-speed DSG, resulted in a capable and comfortable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 8.8 seconds, and a top speed of 201 km/h (124.9 mph) is achievable. While not a sports van, the Caravelle offered sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers, even when fully loaded. The DSG transmission effectively masked any potential turbo lag, delivering a smooth and linear power delivery. Compared to lower-powered versions of the T6.1, this variant offered a noticeable improvement in responsiveness. However, it didn’t quite match the outright performance of the more expensive and less common petrol-powered options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Caravelle T6.1, in this configuration, typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic infotainment system. Higher trim levels added features like navigation, parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and leather upholstery. Interior appointments generally included durable cloth seating, although leather was an optional upgrade. The long wheelbase provided ample space for up to nine passengers, depending on the seating configuration chosen. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded sound system, and various driver assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Caravelle T6.1 utilized an independent suspension setup on both the front and rear axles. The front employed a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear featured an independent coil spring and wishbone arrangement with a transverse stabilizer. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, even on uneven surfaces. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 TDI 199hp DSG Caravelle T6.1 was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its versatility, spaciousness, and comfortable ride. The engine offered a good balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for both private and commercial users. Compared to the lower-powered diesel variants, this version provided a noticeable improvement in performance, while remaining more affordable than the petrol-powered options. Fuel economy figures typically ranged from 6.3 to 7.1 l/100 km (37.3 – 33.1 US mpg), depending on driving conditions.
Legacy
The EA288 engine, in its various iterations, has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant. While early versions of the engine were known for some issues with the dual-mass flywheel and diesel particulate filter (DPF), later revisions, including those found in the T6.1, addressed many of these concerns. The 7-speed DSG transmission is also generally reliable, provided it is serviced according to Volkswagen’s recommendations. Today, used Caravelle T6.1 models with this engine and transmission combination remain popular choices, offering a compelling combination of space, practicality, and reliability. Regular maintenance, including timely DPF regeneration and DSG fluid changes, is crucial to ensure the long-term health of this powertrain.
