The Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi 2.0 TDI, producing 150 horsepower, represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s long-running commercial vehicle lineage. Produced from 2015 to 2019, the T6 generation continued the Transporter’s role as a versatile panel van, passenger carrier (Kombi variant), and platform for camper conversions. While not officially sold in the United States in this specific configuration, the Transporter has a substantial following among enthusiasts who import models or recognize its European ubiquity. The T6 Kombi, in particular, offered a balance between commercial practicality and passenger comfort, serving as a popular choice for families, tradespeople, and recreational users across Europe and other markets.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi: An Overview
The T6 generation marked a substantial evolution for the Transporter, building upon the success of its predecessors. The Kombi variant specifically caters to those needing a vehicle capable of carrying both passengers and cargo. The “L1H2” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length (L1 – short wheelbase) and roof height (H2 – high roof), providing a generous interior space. This model year featured advancements in safety technology, fuel efficiency, and overall refinement compared to earlier generations, solidifying its position as a leading light commercial vehicle in its segment.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Transporter (T6) Kombi 2.0 TDI is a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine, designated EA288 / CXFA or CXHA. This inline-four cylinder engine delivers 150 horsepower at 3250-3750 rpm and a robust 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3000 rpm. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a sophisticated 7-speed Dual Clutch Gearbox (DSG) automatic transmission. This combination provides a good balance of performance and fuel economy. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.1 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in around 11.5 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). Fuel consumption, measured using the NEDC standard, ranges from 5.8 to 6.9 liters per 100 kilometers (40.6 to 34.1 US mpg), with CO2 emissions between 151 and 179 g/km. The engine incorporates a turbocharger and intercooler for enhanced performance, and features both a particulate filter and a Start & Stop system to minimize emissions.
Design & Features
The Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi L1H2 is a van body style, typically offering seating for 4 to 9 passengers. It features 4 or 5 doors for easy access. The high roof provides ample headroom and cargo space, with a maximum trunk volume of 6700 liters (236.61 cubic feet). The vehicle’s design emphasizes practicality and functionality, with a focus on maximizing interior space. Key features include a robust chassis, independent suspension on both front and rear axles (McPherson strut front, wishbone rear), and ventilated disc brakes on all wheels. Safety features, crucial for a modern commercial vehicle, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The T6 also benefits from improved sound insulation and interior materials compared to previous generations, enhancing driver and passenger comfort. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4904 mm (193.07 in), width 1904 mm (74.96 in), and height 2177 mm (85.71 in). A 70-liter (18.49 US gal) fuel tank and a 13-liter (3.43 US gal) AdBlue tank provide extended range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Kombi |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) DSG L1H2 |
| Start of production | 2015 year |
| End of production | 2019 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 4-9 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6.5-7.6 l/100 km (36.2 – 30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.4-6.4 l/100 km (43.6 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.8-6.9 l/100 km (40.6 – 34.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 151-179 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 187.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3250-3750 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXFA, CXHA |
| 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 | 1817-2199 kg (4005.8 – 4847.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 983-1001 kg (2167.14 – 2206.83 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%) | 2500 kg (5511.56 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4904 mm (193.07 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2297 mm (90.43 in.) |
| Height | 2177 mm (85.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 908 mm (35.75 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 993 mm (39.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
The Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) DSG L1H2 remains a popular choice for those seeking a practical, versatile, and relatively efficient commercial vehicle. Its blend of performance, space, and features makes it well-suited for a variety of applications, from family transport to small business operations.
