The Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi Doka Plus 2.0 TDI, produced from 2016 to 2019, represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s long-running and globally successful commercial vehicle line. This particular variant, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 84 horsepower, was primarily aimed at the European market, where it served as a versatile workhorse for tradespeople, businesses, and families needing a practical and adaptable vehicle. The “Kombi” designation indicates a passenger-carrying configuration, while “Doka Plus” signifies a double-cab chassis, offering seating for up to six occupants alongside a dedicated cargo area. The L2H1 specification denotes a long wheelbase and a low roof height, maximizing cargo volume while maintaining manageable dimensions.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi Doka Plus: An Overview
The T6 generation of the Transporter, launched in 2015, built upon the foundations laid by its predecessors, offering improved efficiency, technology, and safety features. While not officially sold in the United States, the Transporter has a strong following among van enthusiasts and is often imported as a grey market vehicle. The T6 represented a move towards more car-like refinement in the commercial van segment, offering a more comfortable driving experience and a wider range of customization options. The 2.0 TDI engine, in its 84 horsepower guise, was a common choice for operators prioritizing fuel economy and reliability over outright performance.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Transporter (T6) Kombi Doka Plus 2.0 TDI is Volkswagen’s EA288 series 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, designated CXGA, produces 84 horsepower at 2750-3750 rpm and 220 Nm (162.26 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1250 and 2500 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. Fuel is delivered via a diesel commonrail injection system, ensuring precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. The engine’s 15.5:1 compression ratio contributes to its thermal efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. Performance is modest, with a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 19.7 seconds and a top speed of 146 km/h (90.72 mph). However, the engine prioritizes fuel economy, achieving combined fuel consumption figures of 6.0-6.6 l/100 km (39.2-35.6 US mpg), and CO2 emissions of 156-173 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to further reduce emissions.
Design & Features
The Transporter (T6) Kombi Doka Plus features a traditional van body style with a boxy silhouette optimized for maximizing interior space. The L2H1 configuration provides a long wheelbase for increased cargo capacity and a low roof height for ease of access and reduced wind resistance. The double-cab layout offers seating for five to six passengers, with a dedicated cargo area behind the rear seats. The vehicle’s design emphasizes practicality and functionality, with features such as sliding side doors for easy loading and unloading, and a rear liftgate for access to the cargo area. Inside, the cabin is functional and durable, with hard-wearing materials and a focus on ergonomics. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver and passenger airbags. The T6 also benefited from improvements in ride quality and handling compared to previous generations, offering a more comfortable driving experience. 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 – make it relatively easy to maneuver in urban environments while still providing ample cargo space (4400 liters / 155.38 cu. ft. maximum).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Kombi Doka Plus |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (84 Hp) L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3-7.9 l/100 km (32.2 – 29.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-5.8 l/100 km (45.2 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6-6.6 l/100 km (39.2 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 156-173 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 19.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 19.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 18.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 146 km/h (90.72 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 22.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 84 Hp @ 2750-3750 rpm |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1250-2500 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXGA |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1876-2239 kg (4135.87 – 4936.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3000 kg (6613.87 lbs.) |
| Max load | 761-1124 kg (1677.72 – 2478 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4400 l (155.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Wheelbase | 3400 mm (133.86 in.) |
| Length | 5304 mm (208.82 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Height | 1990 mm (78.35 in.) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
The Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi Doka Plus 2.0 TDI, while not a performance vehicle, offered a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and versatility, making it a popular choice for commercial and family use in Europe. Its robust construction, reliable engine, and adaptable configuration ensured its continued relevance in a competitive market.
