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 variant offered a versatile blend of commercial practicality and passenger comfort. The 2.0 (116 hp) L2H2 configuration, powered by the EA113 engine, occupied a middle ground in the T5 lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and usability. The “L2H2” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length (L2 – long wheelbase) and roof height (H2 – high roof), providing ample cargo and passenger space. This variant was primarily sold in European markets, where the Transporter consistently ranked among the best-selling light commercial vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T5, facelift 2009) Kombi |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (116 Hp) L2H2 |
| 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 (17.3 US mpg, 20.8 UK mpg, 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg, 27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 243 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 158 km/h (98.18 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 | 1901-2160 kg (4190.99 – 4761.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2850 kg (6283.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 690-949 kg (1521.19 – 2092.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 7800 l (275.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| 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 | 5292 mm (208.35 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2283 mm (89.88 in.) |
| Height | 2176 mm (85.67 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3400 mm (133.86 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) | 13.2 m (43.31 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21° |
| Departure angle | 17° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 12° |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Transporter T5, particularly the facelifted models from 2009 onwards, solidified the vehicle’s reputation as a robust and adaptable light commercial vehicle. The Kombi variant, designed to bridge the gap between a pure cargo van and a passenger vehicle, offered increased flexibility with its multi-seat configuration and enhanced interior trim. The 2.0-liter, 116 horsepower engine paired with a manual transmission was a popular choice, offering a reasonable balance of performance and economy. This configuration was positioned as a mid-range option, sitting below the more powerful diesel variants (like the 140hp or 180hp TDI) and above the base-level, lower-powered gasoline engines.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transporter variant is the EA113 engine, specifically the AXA code. This 1.984-liter inline-four cylinder engine utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration and multi-port fuel injection. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. While not known for outright performance, the EA113 is a relatively simple and durable engine. The 5-speed manual transmission provides a straightforward driving experience. Gear ratios are tuned for economy rather than acceleration, with a relatively tall final drive. This setup prioritizes fuel efficiency and reduces engine noise at highway speeds, but it does impact responsiveness during overtaking maneuvers.
Driving Characteristics
The 116 hp 2.0-liter engine in the T5 Kombi delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 15.8 seconds, and top speed is limited to 98.18 mph. The engine feels strained when fully loaded or climbing steep hills. The manual transmission helps to extract the most from the available power, allowing the driver to select the optimal gear for the situation. Compared to the more powerful TDI diesel versions, this gasoline engine feels significantly less responsive. However, it offers a smoother and quieter driving experience, with less engine vibration. The tall gear ratios contribute to a relaxed cruising experience on the highway, but require downshifts for quicker acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Kombi trim level typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with durable plastic trim throughout the cabin. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems, alloy wheels, parking sensors, and a driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support. The L2H2 body configuration provided a generous cargo area behind the rear seats, making it suitable for both commercial and family use. The Kombi also featured a flexible seating arrangement, with the option to fold or remove rear seats to maximize cargo space.
Chassis & Braking
The T5 Kombi utilizes an independent suspension setup at both the front and rear. The front suspension employs McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension features a trailing arm configuration with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, even when the vehicle is loaded. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) enhances safety by preventing wheel lockup during emergency braking.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0-liter gasoline-powered T5 Kombi received mixed reviews. Critics praised its practicality and versatility, but noted its lack of outright performance compared to the diesel alternatives. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, and reliability was generally good, although the EA113 engine is known to be susceptible to oil consumption issues over time. Compared to the TDI models, the gasoline version offered a lower purchase price but higher running costs due to its lower fuel efficiency and potentially higher maintenance requirements. The TDI variants were favored by those who prioritized fuel economy and torque, while the gasoline version appealed to buyers who preferred a smoother, quieter driving experience and a lower initial investment.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Transporter T5, including the 2.0 (116 hp) L2H2 Kombi variant, remains a popular choice in the used vehicle market. Its reputation for reliability and practicality has ensured continued demand. While the EA113 engine may require occasional maintenance to address oil consumption issues, it is generally a durable and long-lasting unit. Today, these vehicles are often sought after by small businesses, tradespeople, and families who require a versatile and dependable vehicle. The T5’s enduring popularity is a testament to its well-rounded design and robust engineering.
