Volkswagen’s new T-Series model range includes vehicles aimed at commercial customers, i.e. the Transporter Pick-Up, Panel Van and Crew Bus and also two popular models aimed at private customers: the iconic Kombi and the more upmarket Caravelle.
Focusing on the Kombi and Caravelle, there hasn’t been a radical departure in the looks department as the fifth-generation (T-5) evolves into the sixth (T-6). Minor refinements to the exterior include changes to the lights and grille but more noteworthy are the significant changes to the interior.
There is a completely redesigned dashboard, new three-spoke steering wheel, extra storage areas and the centre console holds an advanced infotainment system.
The Caravelle features a different specification of dashboard with contrast and also black trims as well as chrome surrounds for the air vents and infotainment panel. A lockable glove compartment and higher grade seat fabrics.
The engine line-up of the T6 has been carried over from the T5. The 2.0 litre displacement turbocharged diesel engine delivers a power output that ranges from 75kW to 132kW.
Depending on power output, engines are coupled with a 5- or 6-six-speed manual gearbox or with a 7-seven-speed DSG (direct shift gearbox). In addition, the engine with 132kW power output is available with an option of 4MOTION all-wheel drive.
The T6 is available in 16 exterior colours, however, the two-tone finishes – such as the Candy White and Cherry Red combination picured above – are available exclusively with the Caravelle.
The Kombi can seat up to eight passengers and the bench seats can be removed without tools and the seat belts for the outer seats are then fitted to the respective side wall. These can also be folded forward.
The Caravelle has extremely versatile seating at the back with two rotatable individual seats installed in the front row of the back of the Caravelle. Theses can be snapped into their position, turned around or easily moved on rollers without having to be taken out. The back row reclining bench seat can be moved forward or backwards to create more leg room or boot space and then locked into the chosen position.
Kombi
2.0 TDI Kombi Trendline 75kW R481 800
2.0 TDI Kombi Trendline DSG 103kW R513 300
2.0 TDI Kombi Comfortline 103kW R566 400
2.0 TDI Kombi Comfortline DSG 103kW R583 900
2.0 TDI Kombi Comfortline LWB DSG 103kW R591 900
Caravelle
2.0 BiTDI Caravelle Comfortline DSG 132kW R738 300
2.0 BiTDI Caravelle Comfortline 4MOTION DSG 132kW R770 800
2.0 BiTDI Caravelle Highline DSG 132kW R816 300
2.0 BiTDI Caravelle Highline 4MOTION DSG 132kW R848 800