The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the Transporter T6.1 following a significant facelift in 2019, is a light commercial vehicle produced by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. This iteration builds upon the T6 generation, offering updated styling, enhanced technology, and improved efficiency. Primarily sold in Europe, Australia, and other international markets, the T6.1 caters to businesses and individuals requiring a versatile and reliable van for cargo transport, tradespeople, and even camper conversions. The model detailed here is the Panel Van variant, specifically equipped with the 2.0 TDI engine producing 110 horsepower, in the L2H1 configuration – denoting a long wheelbase and a lower roof height.
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1: Overview and Market Position
The Transporter has a long and storied history, originating in the iconic Type 2 “Bus” of the 1950s. The T6.1 represents the latest evolution of this lineage, continuing the tradition of providing a practical and adaptable vehicle. In markets where it’s offered, the Transporter competes with other popular vans such as the Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Vito, and Fiat Ducato. The T6.1’s appeal lies in its blend of durability, driving comfort, and a wide range of available configurations, making it suitable for diverse commercial applications. The L2H1 configuration provides a balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability, making it a popular choice for urban deliveries and service-based businesses.
Engine & Performance
The 2019-2021 Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 Panel Van 2.0 TDI (110 Hp) L2H1 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine, designated the EA288 / CXHC. This four-cylinder engine produces 110 horsepower at 3200-4250 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1250-3100 rpm. The engine features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a turbocharger with an intercooler, optimizing both power delivery and fuel efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 14.3 seconds and a maximum speed of 164 km/h (101.9 mph). The engine’s design incorporates a particulate filter and a Start & Stop system to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy. Fuel consumption is rated between 6.2-7.3 l/100 km (37.9 – 32.2 US mpg), depending on driving conditions.
Design & Features
The Transporter T6.1 Panel Van is a traditional van body style, characterized by its boxy shape and dedicated cargo area. The L2H1 configuration signifies a long wheelbase, providing increased cargo length, and a lower roof height, enhancing accessibility and reducing overall vehicle height. The van typically accommodates 2-3 occupants, with 4-5 doors for easy access. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials and a functional layout. Key features include a driver-focused cockpit with ergonomic controls, and a spacious cargo area with tie-down points for securing loads. Safety features, standard for the era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The T6.1 facelift brought updated exterior styling, including a revised front grille, headlights, and bumper, giving it a more modern appearance. The vehicle also benefits from improved insulation and soundproofing compared to earlier T6 models.
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6.1, facelift 2019) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (110 Hp) L2H1 |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.4-8 l/100 km (31.8 – 29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.6-6.9 l/100 km (42 – 34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 6.2-7.3 l/100 km (37.9 – 32.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 164-193 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 TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 3200-4250 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1250-3100 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXHC |
| 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) |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1801-2190 kg (3970.53 – 4828.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 999-1010 kg (2202.42 – 2226.67 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 6700 l (236.61 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) |
| 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.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Dimensions | |
| 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.) |
| Front overhang | 906 mm (35.67 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 998 mm (39.29 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 202 mm (7.95 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.2 m (43.31 ft.) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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, Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| 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 | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
