Test drive Volkswagen Caddy 2.0 TDI 122 CV DSG Outdoor: if you're after space, stick with the van

If you have a family, need a spacious vehicle, or want a car that offers some versatility between work and leisure, the Volkswagen Caddy is for you. MPVs have been disappearing, and only a few models remain on the market, almost all of them quite large. So, what option is left for those looking for space and practicality? A van, a van with everything a car has but with much more room.

In this test we are going to analyse the 5 strong points of the Volkswagen Caddy diesel with the 122 CV engine, dual-clutch automatic gearbox (DSG) and the most fun trim level (Outdoor), which comes as standard with everything you would find in a car, and more.

1. A van with a car’s skin

Some vans have made great progress over the years, even in terms of design. This is what has happened with the Volkswagen Caddy, which, in its latest update, has adopted an eye-catching design with the design hallmarks of the German brand.

The front could be that of any car or SUV from the German brand, featuring Full-LED lights and the typical straight design lines found on all Volkswagen models. At the rear there is a two-tone design that clearly separates the glass area from the rest of the tailgate, with modern, well-finished lines.

It even comes in two colours that move away from the typical colour range of a van, the standout being our test unit’s, called “Copper Bronze metallic“. The other, different colour is “Costa Azul metallic“.

Inside, the design and driving position remind us of a car, with a comfortable driving posture and all the usual elements found in a car, without skimping on equipment: digital instrumentation, a touchscreen for multimedia management, among others.

2. Big, with plenty of room and space everywhere

For lovers of spacious interiors, where the centre tunnel doesn’t wrap around the driver and there is generous room in every direction, the Caddy particularly stands out in this regard.

The sense of space is noticeable both in the front seats and the rear ones, with the backrest of the second row adjustable for recline. The second row has three independent seats, with legroom worthy of a saloon. It also has rear air vents and a panoramic roof that brings plenty of light into the cabin.

As is typical of a van, the cabin has various storage spaces for our belongings throughout the interior, from the top of the dashboard to the huge door pockets, where two 1.5-litre water bottles fit easily.

There are only two things that caught our attention. The first is that the materials are correct with good fit and finish, but they are all hard plastics to the touch (though that is entirely expected in this segment). The second is that the rear windows are fixed (some rivals opt for electric windows, as in a car).

3. Petrol or diesel, both with C label

Among the mechanical options available for the Caddy is the 1.5 TSI petrol engine with 116 CV and in diesel: the well-known 2.0 TDI in two power outputs, 102 CV and 122 CV (paired with the DSG7 automatic gearbox). It is a very familiar unit within the German group, and it does its job in all kinds of situations.

It is not sporty, but it can tackle an overtaking manoeuvre with confidence, while the automatic gearbox offers an extra dose of comfort. That said, I’m left with the feeling that a manual gearbox would let you squeeze a little more out of each of this engine’s horsepower.

The average consumption on motorway was 6.4 litres per 100 km, while on country roads the figure drops to 5.6 litres per 100 km. These figures are within what is expected for its size, weight and power.

4. Travelling in comfort

If we want to make a trip with five passengers, we won’t have any space problems, since in addition to travelling comfortably, we still have a huge boot that lets us carry the luggage of five adults without worrying about the size of the suitcases. And speaking of suitcases, a pram or a folded wheelchair also fits with room to spare.

The driver’s seat is ergonomic, something you notice after several hours at the wheel. Interior soundproofing is good, better than we might expect from a van, and the sunroof (which I mentioned earlier) adds to the brightness. Perhaps a blind for the roof would be welcome, although it does have a special filter to block the sun.

Finally, the two sliding side doors have an opening more than wide enough to get a grown-up in and out or to access a child car seat.

5. Fully equipped, driver assistance included. From 32,705 euros.

Standard equipment includes features such as dual-zone climate control, a 10-inch screen for operating the infotainment system, lane keeping assist, light sensor, rear camera, digital instrumentation and parking sensors, among others.

Our trim level adds LED front lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic roof, among other elements.

In any of the equipment levels, it comes with everything essential for everyday use. It doesn’t neglect the assistance systems, the parking sensors or the touchscreen for managing the multimedia system, which is good, though the sound from its 6 speakers could be better (but that is just my personal opinion).

Photos | Test team