The Volkswagen Transporter, known as the T6 generation from 2015 to 2016, represents a significant evolution in Volkswagen’s long-running commercial vehicle line. This iteration of the Transporter, specifically the Panel Van configuration with the 2.0 TDI 140 horsepower engine and L2H2 body style, was primarily aimed at the European market as a versatile workhorse for businesses and tradespeople. While not widely sold in the United States, the Transporter has a global reputation for reliability, practicality, and adaptability. The T6 built upon the success of its predecessors, offering improved fuel efficiency, enhanced safety features, and a more refined driving experience compared to earlier models.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) L2H2
The T6 Transporter Panel Van, equipped with the 2.0 TDI engine producing 140 horsepower, is a medium-sized van designed for commercial use. The “L2H2” designation refers to the vehicle’s body length and roof height – L2 indicating a longer wheelbase and H2 signifying a higher roof, maximizing cargo space. This particular model served as a popular choice for businesses requiring a robust and efficient vehicle for deliveries, mobile workshops, or general transportation of goods. Its front-wheel-drive configuration and manual transmission further emphasized its practicality and cost-effectiveness.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the T6 Panel Van 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) is a 1.968-liter, inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, identified by the EA189 / CAAC code, delivers 140 horsepower at 3500 rpm and a substantial 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system to optimize performance and fuel economy. Power per liter is rated at 71.1 hp/l. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.3 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.7 seconds. The van boasts a maximum speed of 167 km/h (103.77 mph). Fuel economy, measured using the NEDC standard, ranges from 6.9 to 7.6 liters per 100 kilometers (30.9 to 34.1 US mpg), with CO2 emissions between 182 and 199 g/km. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to reduce emissions and improve efficiency.
Design & Features
The Volkswagen Transporter T6 Panel Van is characterized by its functional and utilitarian design. The L2H2 body style provides a generous cargo volume of 7800 liters (275.45 cu. ft.), making it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications. The van typically accommodates 2-3 occupants and features 4-5 doors for easy access. Key dimensions include a length of 5304 mm (208.82 in), a width of 1904 mm (74.96 in), and a height of 2170 mm (85.43 in). The wheelbase measures 3400 mm (133.86 in). The T6 incorporated improved safety features compared to previous generations, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an independent coil spring, wishbone arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride even when fully loaded. The hydraulic power steering and a turning circle of 13.2 meters (43.31 ft) contribute to its maneuverability in urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Panel Van |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) L2H2 |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.8-9.3 l/100 km (26.7 – 25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.8-6.7 l/100 km (40.6 – 35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.9-7.6 l/100 km (34.1 – 30.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 182-199 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 | 167 km/h (103.77 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CAAC |
| 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 | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1767-2084 kg (3895.57 – 4594.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1033-1116 kg (2277.38 – 2460.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 7800 l (275.45 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| 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 | 2170 mm (85.43 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 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 |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
