The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the T6 generation from 2015 to 2016, represents a significant evolution in Volkswagen’s long-running commercial vehicle lineage. Specifically, the Kombi Doka Plus 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) DSG L2H1 variant was a popular choice in European markets, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and modern features. This model catered to businesses and individuals needing a versatile van for both passenger and cargo transport. The “Kombi” designation indicates a passenger-carrying configuration, while “Doka” (Doppelkabine) signifies a double-cab layout, accommodating up to six occupants. The “L2H1” refers to the vehicle’s length and roof height – a long wheelbase and a standard roof – optimizing interior space. This article details the technical specifications and characteristics of this specific Transporter T6 configuration.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi Doka Plus: An Overview
The T6 Transporter built upon the success of its predecessors, offering improved fuel economy, enhanced safety features, and a more refined driving experience. While not officially sold in the United States, the Transporter series has a strong following among van enthusiasts and is often imported as a grey market vehicle. In Europe, it competed with models like the Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Vito, and Fiat Ducato, serving as a workhorse for tradespeople, delivery services, and families alike. The 2.0 TDI engine with 140 horsepower and a dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) was a common powertrain choice, balancing performance with fuel efficiency.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Transporter Kombi Doka Plus 2.0 TDI is a 1,968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated EA189 / CAAC. This engine produces 140 horsepower (Hp) at 3500 rpm and 340 Newton-meters (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The power-to-liter ratio is a respectable 71.1 Hp/l. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG), providing smooth and efficient gear changes. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.5 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.9 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 172 km/h (106.88 mph). Fuel economy, measured using the NEDC standard, ranges from 7.4 to 8.0 liters per 100 kilometers (31.8 to 29.4 US mpg, or 38.2 to 35.3 UK mpg). CO2 emissions fall between 195 and 211 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards. The engine incorporates a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance, and features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system for optimized combustion. Start & Stop technology and a particulate filter are included to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
Design & Features
The Transporter T6 Kombi Doka Plus is a van with 4-5 doors and seating for 5-6 passengers. Its body style is characterized by a functional and practical design, prioritizing interior space and usability. The L2H1 configuration provides a long wheelbase (3400 mm / 133.86 in.) and a standard roof height (1990 mm / 78.35 in.). The vehicle’s dimensions are 5304 mm (208.82 in.) in length and 1904 mm (74.96 in.) in width (2297 mm / 90.43 in. including mirrors). The interior is designed for versatility, with flexible seating arrangements and ample cargo space. The maximum trunk (boot) space is a substantial 4400 liters (155.38 cu. ft.). Key features include independent suspension on both the front (McPherson strut with coil spring and anti-roll bar) and rear (independent coil spring, Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer), ventilated disc brakes on all wheels, and ABS (Anti-lock braking system). The hydraulic power steering provides responsive handling. The vehicle’s approach, departure, and ramp-over angles are 21.2°, 16.2°, and 12.2° respectively, offering reasonable off-road capability for a van. A maximum roof load of 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) is permitted.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Kombi Doka Plus |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) DSG L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 9.2-9.5 l/100 km (25.6 – 24.8 US mpg, 30.7 – 29.7 UK mpg, 10.9 – 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.4-7.2 l/100 km (36.8 – 32.7 US mpg, 44.1 – 39.2 UK mpg, 15.6 – 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.4-8 l/100 km (31.8 – 29.4 US mpg, 38.2 – 35.3 UK mpg, 13.5 – 12.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 195-211 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.5 kg/Hp, 74 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 179.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CAAC |
| 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 | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1891-2254 kg (4168.94 – 4969.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3000-3200 kg (6613.87 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 946-1109 kg (2085.57 – 2444.93 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4400 l (155.38 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| 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, 308×29.5 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 294×22 mm |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6 Kombi Doka Plus 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) DSG L2H1 represented a well-rounded package for commercial and family use, offering a balance of practicality, efficiency, and modern features. Its robust diesel engine, versatile interior, and advanced technology made it a popular choice in the European van market.
