The Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi 2.0 TDI, producing 150 horsepower, represents a significant iteration in the long and storied history of Volkswagen’s commercial vehicle line. 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 is a mainstay in European and other international markets, renowned for its practicality, reliability, and adaptability. The T6 Kombi, in particular, bridges the gap between a pure commercial vehicle and a family-oriented people mover, offering a flexible seating arrangement and increased comfort features.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi: An Overview
The T6 generation marked a substantial evolution for the Transporter, building upon the success of its predecessors. It introduced a more modern design, improved safety features, and a range of efficient engines. The Kombi variant, as described here, is characterized by its flexible seating configuration, typically accommodating between four and nine passengers. The “L2H3” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length (L2 – long wheelbase) and roof height (H3 – high roof), maximizing interior space and cargo capacity. This model primarily served the European market, where it competed with vehicles like the Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Vito, and Citroën Dispatch.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the T6 Kombi 2.0 TDI is a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine, designated EA288 / CXFA or CXHA. This engine delivers 150 horsepower at 3250-3750 rpm and a robust 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3000 rpm. This power output, combined with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Gearbox (DSG) automatic transmission, provides a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.3 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in around 11.7 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 169 km/h (105.01 mph). Fuel economy, measured using the NEDC standard, ranges from 5.8 to 7.0 liters per 100 kilometers (40.6 to 33.6 US mpg), with CO2 emissions between 151 and 182 g/km. The engine incorporates a diesel particulate filter and a Start & Stop system to minimize emissions and improve fuel consumption.
Design & Features
The T6 Kombi features a functional and contemporary design. Its van body style provides a large, versatile interior space. The L2H3 configuration maximizes this space, making it ideal for carrying passengers and cargo simultaneously. Key features of the Kombi variant include a flexible seating arrangement with individual seats that can be folded, removed, or rotated to create different configurations. The interior is typically equipped with practical features such as multiple storage compartments, comfortable seating, and a user-friendly dashboard. Safety features, crucial in modern vehicles, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed for stability and handling. The high roof allows for comfortable standing room for most adults, enhancing its appeal for camper conversions. The vehicle’s dimensions – 5304 mm (208.82 in) in length, 1904 mm (74.96 in) in width, and 2477 mm (97.52 in) in height – contribute to its spaciousness and practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Kombi |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) DSG L2H3 |
| 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, 43.5 – 37.2 UK mpg, 15.4 – 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.4-6.6 l/100 km (43.6 – 35.6 US mpg, 52.3 – 42.8 UK mpg, 18.5 – 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.8-7 l/100 km (40.6 – 33.6 US mpg, 48.7 – 40.4 UK mpg, 17.2 – 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 151-182 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 169 km/h (105.01 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp, 79.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 180.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3250-3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.2 Hp/l |
| 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 | 1879-2274 kg (4142.49 – 5013.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 921-926 kg (2030.46 – 2041.48 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 9300 l (328.43 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 | 5304 mm (208.82 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2297 mm (90.43 in.) |
| Height | 2477 mm (97.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3400 mm (133.86 in.) |
| Front overhang | 908 mm (35.75 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 993 mm (39.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 202 mm (7.95 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.2 m (43.31 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 |
| 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 | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
The Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Kombi 2.0 TDI DSG L2H3 remains a popular choice for businesses and families alike, offering a compelling combination of practicality, efficiency, and versatility. Its robust construction, comfortable interior, and advanced features ensure its continued relevance in the competitive commercial vehicle segment.
