Sector: Small Van  Engines: 151–178hp Payloads: 582–735kg Cargo Volume: 3.2m3 or 4.2m3

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”, seems to have been Volkswagen’s guide in re-working its successful small van. It uses much of its familiar predecessor, in production from 2003 – 2015. The shape is reassuringly similar, while the interior has been subtly re-worked to incorporate some revised options like Volkswagen’s latest infotainment systems, while leaving the clear instrument layout and familiar control layout largely untouched.

The changes were designed to accommodate revised Euro 6 powertrains. Unlike the EU car sector, the Euro 6 emissions limits did not come into force for all newly registered vehicles on 1 September 2015. Light CV buyers have a further year before the limits apply to all new registrations. That gives many buyers a choice to either adopt the Euro-6 technology now or wait until the law takes the choice away in September 2016.

This leaves the Caddy with a choice of both Euro 5 and Euro 6 engines for the time being. Diesel is likely to be the dominant choice and the engines are familiar from Volkswagen’s passenger car ranges, even if the power outputs vary. Both 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre TDI engines are available although the 1.6-litre variants will disappear when Euro 6 becomes mandatory and Volkswagen will rely solely on the 2.0-litre engine to deliver either 102hp or 150hp with the option of BlueMotion low emission variants with the 102hp engine. For now the Euro 5 1.6-litre engine is also available with either 75hp or 102hp and the Euro 5 2.0-litre TDI offers 140hp.

Buyers can also specify spark ignition engines, depending on market, with the options of 1.0-litre 102hp, 1.2-litre 84hp or 1.4-litre 125hp turbocharged TSI petrol engines. The TGI natural gas engine is also available in some markets based on the 1.4-litre engine.

Standard equipment includes the Volkswagen multi-collision brake system to brake the vehicle after a collision if the driver is no longer able to do so. Other options include light or high-beam assist and park assist for the first time, while adaptive cruise control, front assist and city emergency braking are all on the options list too. Three trim levels are available – Startline, Trendline and Highline.

The 3.2m3 and 4.2m3 load volumes of the Caddy and Caddy Maxi vans are unchanged, while payload ranges from 582 to 735kg. Combi, Window van and passenger carrying Life variants provide a wide range of options.

The driving experience is very similar to the outgoing model, but since it was one of the best small vans to drive, that is not a problem at all. The Caddy remains a solidly engineered van with fine road manners and a comfortable cab. As before, the DSG automated manual transmission remains an option, making life particularly easy for stop/start and town driving. As in the cars fitted with the gearbox, it delivers seamless gear shifting and a relaxed driving style.

The Caddy load area remains a practical one too offering a competitive load space and payload. There may be newer rivals, but the Caddy remains a very appealing choice.

Verdict:

VW has delivered a subtly revised Caddy range that incorporates many new features. It remains one of the best vans in its class despite stiff competition.