The Volkswagen Transporter (T5) facelift, produced from 2009 to 2013, represented a significant refresh of the fifth-generation Transporter line. Within this generation, the “Kombi” designation denoted a passenger-oriented configuration, bridging the gap between a pure cargo van and a full-fledged multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). The 2.0 (116 hp) L1H1 variant, powered by the EA113 engine and paired with a five-speed manual transmission, occupied a mid-range position in the T5 lineup, offering a balance of affordability, practicality, and reasonable performance. The “L1H1” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length (L1 – short wheelbase) and roof height (H1 – standard roof). This specific configuration was popular in Europe as a versatile vehicle for families, tradespeople, and recreational users.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Kombi |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (116 Hp) L1H1 |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 4-9 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 13.6 l/100 km (20.8 UK mpg, 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.6 l/100 km (32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 10.4 l/100 km (27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 243 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 163 km/h (101.28 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.4 kg/Hp, 61 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 11.2 kg/Nm, 89.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2700-4700 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 2700-4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA113 / AXA |
| 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 | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1901-2029 kg (4190.99 – 4473.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600-2850 kg (5732.02 – 6283.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 699-821 kg (1541.03 – 1810 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 5800 l (204.83 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%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4892 mm (192.6 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2283 mm (89.88 in.) |
| Height | 1990 mm (78.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 896 mm (35.28 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 996 mm (39.21 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21° |
| Departure angle | 17° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 14° |
| Wading depth | 300 mm (11.81 in.) |
| 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 308×29.5 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 | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transporter variant is the 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder engine, identified by the EA113 engine code, specifically the AXA variant. This engine, a mainstay in Volkswagen Group vehicles of the era, utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system. The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design operates two valves per cylinder. The engine produces 116 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque between 2700 and 4700 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a relatively simple and robust drivetrain. The transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards fuel efficiency and everyday usability rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 116 hp 2.0-liter engine, coupled with the five-speed manual transmission, delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 16.5 seconds. In real-world driving, the engine felt strained when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel economy, meaning frequent downshifts were necessary to maintain momentum. Compared to the more powerful 1.9 TDI diesel or the higher-output gasoline variants, this engine offered a smoother, quieter driving experience but lacked the low-end torque and overall responsiveness of its siblings. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but traction could be limited in slippery conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Kombi trim level, even in this mid-range specification, offered a reasonable level of standard equipment. Typically, it included features such as power windows, central locking, an adjustable steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was usually a durable cloth material. Optional extras included air conditioning, upgraded audio systems, alloy wheels, and parking sensors. The L1H1 configuration provided a practical cargo area behind the rear seats, making it suitable for both passenger and light commercial use.
Chassis & Braking
The T5 Transporter utilized an independent suspension setup on both the front and rear axles. The front employed a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear featured a trailing arm setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, even when the vehicle was loaded. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, but lacked the sophistication of more modern systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0-liter (116 hp) Kombi variant was generally well-received as a practical and affordable option within the T5 range. Critics noted its reasonable fuel economy (around 22.6 US mpg combined) and its versatility. However, it was often criticized for its lack of power, particularly when compared to the diesel alternatives. The 1.9 TDI offered significantly better fuel economy and more torque, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing efficiency and towing capacity. The higher-output gasoline engines provided more performance but at the expense of fuel consumption. The 2.0-liter version appealed to buyers who prioritized a smoother, quieter driving experience and were less concerned with outright performance.
Legacy
The EA113 engine, while generally reliable, is known to have some potential issues, including oil consumption and occasional problems with the ignition coils. The five-speed manual transmission is considered durable and relatively maintenance-free. Today, the 2.0-liter (116 hp) T5 Kombi can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. Its simplicity and practicality continue to make it an appealing option for those seeking a versatile and reliable vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s potential oil consumption issues and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained.
