LAUNCH VW CADDY
Cargo carrier Volkswagen’s fifth-generation Caddy van has been launched in the UK, offering increased load volume, lower emission drivelines, increased safety technology and an improved driver experience, says Dan Gilkes
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olkswagen has sold more than 3 million Caddy vans over the last four generations, so this new fifth model has a lot to live up to. Based on VW’s MQB platform, which also underpins the latest Golf, the new Caddy has access to a host of driver assistance and safety systems, plus much of the infotainment and dash layout already seen in the company’s cars. Indeed, the Caddy name now relates to just the people-carrying versions of the vehicle, while the vans are now called Caddy Cargo.
Load carrying capacity The standard van has a 73mm longer wheelbase, with an overall length up by 92mm. That leads to more load length, while new rear suspension has resulted in 60mm of increased width between 12 VANUSER • MAY 2021
the wheelarches. The rear door aperture has also been stretched by 51mm, for easier access to the 3.1m3 interior. That means that a Europallet can now be carried sideways in the cargo space. For the longer Caddy Cargo Maxi, which boasts a 3.7m3 load volume, there is a new sliding side door that is said to be the largest in the sector. This allows a Europallet to be loaded in the side of the van.
Powertrain There are three diesel engines, offering 75hp, 102hp and 122hp, along with a petrol engine delivering 114hp. Twin SCR catalytic converters on diesel models result in lower NOx emissions and all meet Euro 6d standards. There are no plans for electric versions of the Caddy Cargo, as VW will base its EV vans
