The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the T6 generation from 2015 to 2018, represents a significant evolution in Volkswagen’s long-running commercial vehicle line. Specifically, the Kombi variant, equipped with the 2.0 TSI 204 horsepower engine, 4MOTION all-wheel drive, and a 7-speed DSG transmission in the L2H1 configuration, offered a versatile platform for both commercial and family use. While not directly sold in the United States during this generation, the Transporter remains a cornerstone of the European light commercial vehicle market, competing with models like the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Vito. The T6 Kombi aimed to balance practicality, efficiency, and a degree of passenger comfort not always found in traditional vans.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi 2.0 TSI: An Overview
The T6 generation of the Transporter built upon the success of its predecessors, offering improved fuel economy, enhanced safety features, and a more refined driving experience. The Kombi trim level specifically caters to those needing a flexible vehicle capable of carrying both passengers and cargo. The “L2H1” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length (L2 – long wheelbase) and roof height (H1 – standard roof), providing a practical balance between interior space and maneuverability. The 2.0 TSI engine, coupled with the 4MOTION system and DSG gearbox, delivers a compelling combination of performance and all-weather capability.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the T6 Kombi 2.0 TSI is Volkswagen’s EA888 series 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated CJKA, 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 with intercooler contribute to both power output and efficiency. Power is delivered to all four wheels via Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, which utilizes a Haldex clutch to engage the rear wheels when needed, providing enhanced traction in slippery conditions. The 7-speed DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) offers quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 198 km/h (123.03 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 9.8 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5.7 kg/Nm, indicating a responsive driving experience. Fuel economy, measured using the NEDC standard, ranges from 9.2 to 9.6 liters per 100 kilometers (24.5-25.6 US mpg) combined, with CO2 emissions between 212 and 218 g/km.
Design & Features
The T6 Kombi maintains the classic Transporter silhouette, characterized by its boxy shape and practical design. Available with 4-5 doors and seating for 4-9 passengers, the Kombi offers a versatile interior layout. The L2H1 configuration provides a generous cargo area behind the rear seats, with a maximum capacity of 6700 liters (236.61 cu. ft.). Key features include a robust chassis, independent suspension on both front and rear axles (McPherson struts at the front and a wishbone setup at the rear), and ventilated disc brakes on all wheels. Safety features, crucial for a vehicle often used for family transport, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle’s dimensions – 5304 mm (208.82 in) in length, 1904 mm (74.96 in) in width, and 1990 mm (78.35 in) in height – provide a good balance between interior space and maneuverability in urban environments. A standard fuel tank capacity of 80 liters (21.13 US gal) offers a reasonable driving range. The T6 also features a Start & Stop system to improve fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Kombi |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TSI (204 Hp) 4MOTION DSG L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 4-9 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.7-8.3 l/100 km (30.5 – 28.3 US mpg, 36.7 – 34 UK mpg, 13 – 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.2-9.6 l/100 km (25.6 – 24.5 US mpg, 30.7 – 29.4 UK mpg, 10.9 – 10.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 212-218 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 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 | 2005-2399 kg (4420.27 – 5288.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3000-3200 kg (6613.87 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 801-995 kg (1765.9 – 2193.6 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 6700 l (236.61 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 | 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 | 908 mm (35.75 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 993 mm (39.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 202 mm (7.95 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.2 m (43.31 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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 |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6 Kombi 2.0 TSI 4MOTION DSG L2H1 represents a well-rounded package for those seeking a versatile and capable van. Its blend of performance, practicality, and all-weather capability made it a popular choice in the European market.


