The Volkswagen Transporter, specifically the T6 generation Panel Van 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) DSG L1H2, represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s long-running commercial vehicle lineage. Produced from 2016 to 2019, this variant caters primarily to the European market as a versatile and practical van for businesses and tradespeople. While not widely sold in the United States in this specific configuration, the Transporter family has a global presence, and the T6 builds upon the reputation for reliability and functionality established by its predecessors. The “L1H2” designation refers to the van’s body length and roof height, indicating a medium-length wheelbase and a medium-height roof, offering a balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6) Panel Van: An Overview
The T6 Transporter marked a substantial evolution from the T5, incorporating updated technology, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety features. It continued to serve as a cornerstone of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, offering a wide range of configurations to suit diverse commercial needs. The 2.0 TDI engine, paired with the DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission, was a popular choice, providing a good compromise between power, economy, and driving comfort. This model is designed for commercial use, prioritizing practicality and load-carrying capacity over outright performance or luxury.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the T6 Panel Van 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) DSG L1H2 is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, identified by the engine code EA288 / CXFA or CXHA. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 3250-3750 rpm and 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3000 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler work in tandem to optimize power delivery and efficiency. The engine features a diesel common rail fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter demonstrates Volkswagen’s commitment to reducing emissions and improving fuel economy, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.3 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.7 seconds. The van has a maximum speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). Fuel economy figures, measured using the NEDC cycle, range from 5.8 to 6.5 l/100 km (40.6 to 36.2 US mpg, or 48.7 to 43.5 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The T6 Transporter Panel Van is a traditional, body-on-frame van, offering a robust and durable construction. It features a four or five-door configuration and can accommodate two to three occupants. The L1H2 variant boasts a substantial cargo volume of 6700 liters (236.61 cu. ft.), making it ideal for transporting goods. Key dimensions include a length of 4904 mm (193.07 in.), a width of 1904 mm (74.96 in.), and a height of 2177 mm (85.71 in.). The van’s design prioritizes functionality, with a focus on maximizing cargo space and ease of loading. The front suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent coil spring and wishbone arrangement with a transverse stabilizer. Braking is handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, assisted by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The vehicle’s drivetrain is front-wheel drive, powered by the seven-speed DSG automatic transmission. Practical features include a 70-liter (18.49 US gal) fuel tank and a 13-liter (3.43 US gal) AdBlue tank for selective catalytic reduction (SCR) emissions control.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Transporter |
| Generation | Transporter (T6) Panel Van |
| Type | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) DSG L1H2 |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Van |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6-7.1 l/100 km (35.6 – 33.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4-6.1 l/100 km (43.6 – 38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8-6.5 l/100 km (40.6 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 153-169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0-62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3250-3750 rpm |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1772-2089 kg (3906.59 – 4605.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2800-3200 kg (6172.94 – 7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1028-1111 kg (2266.35 – 2449.34 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) |
| Length | 4904 mm (193.07 in.) |
| Width | 1904 mm (74.96 in.) |
| Height | 2177 mm (85.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission DSG |
The Volkswagen Transporter T6 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) DSG L1H2 remains a popular choice in Europe for its blend of practicality, efficiency, and reliability. While not a common sight on American roads, it exemplifies Volkswagen’s commitment to producing versatile commercial vehicles that meet the demands of a diverse range of businesses and trades.
