The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the T6 generation from 2016 to 2019, is a light commercial vehicle produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. This iteration of the Transporter, a mainstay in the European van market, continued the model’s legacy as a versatile platform for both commercial and private use. The 2.0 TDI (114 Hp) L2H2 Panel Van configuration represents a popular choice within the range, balancing fuel efficiency with practical cargo capacity. While not officially sold in the United States, the Transporter is a significant vehicle in Europe, serving as a base for camper conversions, delivery vehicles, and general-purpose transportation.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (114 Hp) L2H2
The T6 Transporter built upon the foundations laid by its predecessors, offering improved refinement, technology, and safety features. The “L2H2” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length and roof height – ‘L2’ indicating a longer wheelbase and ‘H2’ denoting a higher roof, maximizing interior space. The 2.0 TDI engine, a common diesel powerplant in Europe, provided a balance between power and economy, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. This model year saw continued refinement of the Euro 6 emissions standards, focusing on reducing particulate matter and NOx emissions.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Transporter 2.0 TDI (114 Hp) L2H2 is a 1.968-liter, inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, part of Volkswagen’s EA288 series, produces 114 horsepower at 3200-4000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1400-3200 rpm. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with intercooler and a diesel common rail fuel injection system, contributing to its efficiency and responsiveness. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 14.9 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 14.2 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 158 km/h (98.18 mph). Fuel economy, measured using the NEDC standard, ranges from 6.1 to 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers (38.6 to 34.6 US mpg), with CO2 emissions between 159 and 178 g/km. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to minimize environmental impact.
Design & Features
The T6 Transporter Panel Van features a functional and practical design, prioritizing cargo space and usability. The L2H2 configuration offers a substantial 7800 liters (275.45 cu. ft.) of cargo volume. The van typically accommodates 2-3 passengers, with a 4-5 door configuration. Key dimensions include a length of 5304 mm (208.82 in), a width of 1904 mm (74.96 in), and a height of 2170 mm (85.43 in). The wheelbase measures 3400 mm (133.86 in). The vehicle’s construction focuses on durability and load-carrying capacity, with a kerb weight ranging from 1779 to 2096 kg (3922.02 – 4620.89 lbs) and a maximum permissible weight of 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs). Safety features, standard for the period, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver/passenger airbags. The T6 also benefited from improved noise insulation and ride comfort compared to earlier generations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (114 Hp) L2H2 |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 7.2-7.8 l/100 km (32.7 – 30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.5-6.3 l/100 km (42.8 – 37.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.1-6.8 l/100 km (38.6 – 34.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 159-178 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 158 km/h (98.18 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 114 Hp @ 3200-4000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1400-3200 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXHB, CXGC |
| 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 | 1779-2096 kg (3922.02 – 4620.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1021-1104 kg (2250.92 – 2433.9 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 7800 l (275.45 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 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 | 2170 mm (85.43 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6, particularly the 2.0 TDI (114 Hp) L2H2 Panel Van, remains a popular choice for businesses and individuals requiring a reliable and efficient commercial vehicle in Europe. Its blend of practicality, fuel economy, and durability ensures its continued relevance in the light commercial vehicle segment.
