The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the T6 generation from 2015 to 2019, is a light commercial vehicle produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. This iteration of the Transporter continued the model’s long-standing reputation for practicality and versatility, serving as a popular choice for businesses and tradespeople across Europe and beyond. The 2.0 TDI (102 Hp) BlueMotion L1H1 Panel Van represents a specific configuration within the T6 range, focusing on fuel efficiency and utility. While not widely sold in the United States, the Transporter is a cornerstone of the European van market, competing with models like the Ford Transit and Mercedes-Benz Vito.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) BlueMotion: A Detailed Overview
The T6 Transporter built upon the foundations laid by its predecessors, offering a blend of functionality, reliability, and modern technology. The “BlueMotion” designation signifies Volkswagen’s efforts to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions through aerodynamic enhancements and optimized engine management. The “L1H1” code indicates a standard wheelbase and a low roof height, making it a practical size for urban environments and ease of access. This particular model, powered by a 2.0-liter TDI engine producing 102 horsepower, was designed to balance performance with efficiency, catering to a wide range of commercial applications.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Transporter T6 2.0 TDI BlueMotion is a 1,968 cc (120.09 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated the EA288 / CXGB. This engine delivers a maximum power output of 102 horsepower at 3,000-3,750 rpm and a torque of 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) between 1,500 and 2,750 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger with intercooler and a diesel common rail fuel injection system, contributing to its efficiency and responsiveness. Power per liter is rated at 51.8 hp/l. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The drivetrain is front-wheel drive, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a top speed of 100 km/h (62.14 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 16.9 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.9 kg/Nm. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter further enhances its environmental credentials, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Volkswagen Transporter T6 Panel Van is a traditional van body style, offering a practical and spacious cargo area. It typically accommodates 2-3 occupants and features 4-5 doors for easy access. The L1H1 configuration provides a generous cargo volume of 5,800 liters (204.83 cu. ft.). The vehicle’s design prioritizes functionality, with a focus on maximizing cargo space and ease of loading. 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, standard for the era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The van’s dimensions are 4,904 mm (193.07 in.) in length, 1,904 mm (74.96 in.) in width, and 1,950 mm (76.77 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 3,000 mm (118.11 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Panel Van |
| Type | 2.0 TDI (102 Hp) BlueMotion L1H1 |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.8-7.2 l/100 km (34.6 – 32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7-5.1 l/100 km (50 – 46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4-5.8 l/100 km (43.6 – 40.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 142-153 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 100 km/h (62.14 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 3000-3750 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA288 / CXGB |
| 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 | 1722 kg (3796.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2700 kg (5952.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 978 kg (2156.12 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 5800 l (204.83 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 (braked) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 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 | 1950 mm (76.77 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 178 mm (7.01 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6 2.0 TDI BlueMotion L1H1 Panel Van represents a practical and efficient solution for commercial transport needs. Its blend of fuel economy, cargo capacity, and reliability made it a popular choice in the European market, and a testament to Volkswagen’s engineering prowess in the light commercial vehicle segment.
