The Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi 2.0 TDI, producing 150 horsepower, represents a significant iteration in the long and storied history of Volkswagen’s commercial vehicle line. Introduced in 2015 and continuing through 2019, the T6 generation marked a substantial leap forward in terms of technology, safety, and refinement compared to its predecessors. The “Kombi” designation specifically refers to a multi-passenger variant, bridging the gap between a pure cargo van and a full passenger carrier. This model was primarily sold in Europe and other international markets, serving as a versatile vehicle for both commercial and family use, offering a practical and adaptable solution for a wide range of transportation needs. While not officially sold in the United States during this generation, the Transporter has a dedicated following among van enthusiasts and importers.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi: An Overview
The T6 Transporter Kombi aimed to balance the practicality expected of a commercial vehicle with the comfort and features desired by passengers. Positioned within the light commercial vehicle segment, it competed with models like the Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Vito, and Citroën Dispatch. The L1H1 designation indicates a short wheelbase and a standard roof height, contributing to its manageable size and ease of maneuverability in urban environments. The 2.0 TDI engine was a cornerstone of the T6 lineup, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and adequate performance for everyday tasks.
Engine & Performance
Powering the T6 Kombi 2.0 TDI is a 1,968 cc (120.09 cubic inches) inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, part of Volkswagen’s EA288 series, delivers 150 horsepower at 3,250-3,750 rpm and 340 Nm (250.77 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with intercooling and a diesel common rail fuel injection system to optimize performance and efficiency. The power-to-weight ratio is approximately 12 kg/hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.3 kg/Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.9 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.3 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 182 km/h (113.09 mph). Fuel economy, measured using the NEDC standard, ranges from 6.0 to 8.2 liters per 100 kilometers (39.2 to 28.7 US mpg), with CO2 emissions between 157 and 188 g/km. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.
Design & Features
The T6 Transporter Kombi features a functional and modern design. As a van, its primary focus is practicality, offering a spacious interior and versatile cargo/passenger configurations. The L1H1 variant provides a relatively compact footprint, making it suitable for navigating city streets. The Kombi configuration allows for seating between 4 and 9 occupants, with flexible seating arrangements to accommodate varying passenger and cargo needs. Key features include a robust chassis, independent suspension on both front and rear axles (McPherson strut front, wishbone rear), and disc brakes on all wheels. Safety features, typical for vehicles of this era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The interior is designed with durability and ease of cleaning in mind, utilizing hard-wearing materials. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4,904 mm (193.07 in), width 1,904 mm (74.96 in), and height 1,990 mm (78.35 in). The wheelbase measures 3,000 mm (118.11 in). The maximum load capacity is between 1,001 and 1,007 kg (2206.83 – 2220.05 lbs), and the maximum trunk space is a substantial 5,800 liters (204.83 cu. ft).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Kombi |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) L1H1 |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 4-9 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.2-8.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.3-6.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6-8.2 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 157-188 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3250-3750 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXFA, CXHA |
| 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 | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1793-2199 kg (3952.89 – 4847.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1001-1007 kg (2206.83 – 2220.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 5800 l (204.83 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 | 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 308×29.5 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 294×22 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |



