As its most compact van, it’s been an integral model for businesses looking for something practical and useful, but without the greater footprint of a Transporter or Crafter. To separate it from the passenger-carrying ‘Caddy’, the firm is now calling it the ‘Cargo’. Let’s take a look at what it has to offer.
Design
The previous Caddy had been on sale for more than 15 years, so was certainly overdue a refresh. This latest van brings some real improvements in key areas, but not least its design.
It’s noticeably smarter to look at than its predecessor, with a much more modern appearance, particularly on high-spec examples that get colour-coded bumpers that feature a textured painted grille, as well as LED headlights. LED lights at the rear also help to provide further street cred, while alloy wheels of up to 18 inches in size are also available.
Interior
The latest Caddy had quite a makeover, borrowing much of the features from the latest Golf. That means, by van standards, that this Volkswagen has a particularly modern interior with plenty of technology on offer, which we’ll come onto.
Though the lack of physical buttons can take time to adjust to, the quality on offer is quite impressive by small van standards.
Engines
The engine choice on the Caddy remains fairly conventional, with no electrified versions yet available. However, with a good choice of petrol and diesel units, there should be something for most van drivers.
Starting with diesel, all models use a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit, available with outputs of either 101bhp or 120bhp. A six-speed manual transmission is supplied as standard on the former, while a seven-speed DSG is used on the more powerful engine. Volkswagen claims more than 50mpg across all diesels.
If you’d prefer petrol, it’s a 112bhp 1.5-litre engine that’s available, with manual and automatic gearbox options on offer, depending on which trim you go for. The petrol returns around a claimed 44mpg.
Space
You can choose the Caddy in two sizes, the standard SWB and the longer Maxi for those needing a bit more room.
Both are very useful, however, with the Caddy capable of transporting up to 700kg with ease, including 100kg loaded to the roof. The Maxi model is also able to accommodate two Euro pallets.
At the rear, the Caddy has two doors, while sliding side doors and optional LED interior lighting in the load compartment really help to improve the day-to-day usability of this van.
Tech
Volkswagen has fitted the Caddy with a lot of the technology you’ll also find on its cars. This includes the same 10-inch touchscreen as you get on cars like the Golf, while high-spec models get a full digital dial display.
If you delve into the options list, you’ll find traffic sign recognition, high-beam assist and voice control.
