The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the Bulli in some markets, is a mainstay of the commercial vehicle segment in Europe and beyond. The T6.1 generation, a significant facelift of the T6, arrived in 2019, bringing updated styling, enhanced technology, and improved efficiency. This article focuses on the 2021-2022 Volkswagen Transporter (T6.1) Kombi Crew Van 2.0 TDI (110 Hp) L2H1, a versatile vehicle designed for both commercial and family use. The “Kombi” designation signifies a crew van configuration, offering seating for up to six occupants alongside a substantial cargo area. The L2H1 indicates a long wheelbase and a lower roof height, optimizing space and practicality.
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1: Overview
The T6.1 represents a refinement of the successful T6 platform, rather than a complete redesign. Volkswagen focused on addressing customer feedback and bringing the Transporter in line with contemporary standards for connectivity, safety, and driver assistance. While not officially sold in the United States, the Transporter enjoys immense popularity in Europe, Australia, and other regions as a workhorse vehicle, camper van base, and family transport. The 2.0 TDI engine option, producing 110 horsepower, provides a balance of fuel economy and adequate performance for everyday tasks.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Transporter T6.1 2.0 TDI is a 1,968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, identified by the EA288MAR / DNAB code, delivers 110 horsepower at 3,100-4,250 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,350-3,100 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger with intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to its efficiency and responsiveness. Power is sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 14.3 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 13.6 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 164 km/h (101.9 mph). Fuel economy figures, measured using the NEDC/WLTP equivalent standards, range from 6.2 to 7.1 l/100 km (37.9 – 33.1 US mpg, 45.6 – 39.8 UK mpg), depending on driving conditions. The engine meets Euro 6d-ISC-FCM emission standards, incorporating a particulate filter and a Start & Stop system to minimize environmental impact.
Design & Features
The Transporter T6.1 maintains the iconic boxy silhouette that has defined the model for decades. The L2H1 configuration offers a practical balance between interior space and maneuverability. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 5,304 mm (208.82 in), width 1,904 mm (74.96 in) including mirrors 2,297 mm (90.43 in), and height 1,990 mm (78.35 in). The wheelbase measures 3,400 mm (133.86 in). The Kombi Crew Van layout provides seating for five to six passengers, with a flexible seating arrangement and a generous cargo area behind the rear seats. The interior features a functional design with durable materials. The T6.1 facelift brought improvements to the dashboard layout, infotainment system, and driver assistance features. While specific features vary depending on trim level and optional extras, common features include ABS, power steering, and a range of safety systems. The vehicle offers a maximum load capacity of 947-956 kg (2087.78 – 2107.62 lbs) and a maximum roof load of 100 kg (220.46 lbs). The trunk space, with the rear seats in place, is substantial at 4,400 liters (155.38 cu. ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6.1, facelift 2019) Kombi Crew Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (110 Hp) L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7-8.1 l/100 km (30.5 – 29 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3-6.4 l/100 km (44.4 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2-7.1 l/100 km (37.9 – 33.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 163-186 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 164 km/h (101.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 3100-4250 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1350-3100 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288MAR / DNAB |
| 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 | 2053-2244 kg (4526.09 – 4947.17 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3000-3200 kg (6613.87 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 947-956 kg (2087.78 – 2107.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4400 l (155.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 22 l (5.81 US gal | 4.84 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 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.) |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 continues to be a popular choice for businesses and families alike, offering a blend of practicality, reliability, and modern features. Its enduring appeal lies in its versatility and ability to adapt to a wide range of needs, making it a true icon of the commercial vehicle segment.
