00-VW-T6_zr-09_15
We have already talked about T6 vans, so to speak, in theory (ZR, 2015, No. 6). And now I have flown to Stockholm for “practice”. Before getting behind the wheel, let me remind you that the common platform is shared by three technically similar models: the utilitarian Transporter van, the Caravelle family minivan and the comfortable Multivan minibus. Each of them has several possible layouts and configurations. In combination with two petrol engines (150 and 204 hp) and four turbodiesels (84, 102, 150 and 204 hp) you get a myriad of possible options.
World premiere of the Volkswagen T6: report and main differences from the T5
Shadows of Great Ancestors
The history of the most popular commercial vehicle in the Volkswagen line goes back 65 years. The first generation VW Transporter appeared in 1950 and was based on the units of the legendary “Beetle” (VW Kafer). From him, the first Transporter inherited the original layout: an air-cooled boxer 4-cylinder engine in the rear overhang. But the real revolution was the carriage layout - no one proposed such a rational use of internal volume at that time! The car was produced virtually unchanged until 1967, and in some markets until 1975.
In the photo: VW Transporter 1 and VW Kafer
In 1967, the second generation of the model appeared. Now this would be called a deep restyling. The new Transporter T2 featured a more comfortable cabin with a one-piece windshield, improved rear suspension and a more powerful engine, but retained the air cooling design. A sliding side door on the starboard side is standard.
In 1979, the T3 was presented to the public, but the T2 remained in service and, having gone through a lot of design changes, was produced in Brazil until the end of 2013! The T3 retained the layout of its predecessor, but radically changed the design - now the car became angular and in 1985 for the first time acquired an all-wheel drive version of Syncro. In Germany, the T3 was produced until 1990, when it was replaced by the fourth generation model. T3 production moved to South Africa, and the car was produced there until 2003.
Pictured: VW Transporter 2 and 3
The VW T4 was another revolution. The engine moved to the front overhang and stood transversely, naturally, the car received front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive versions began to be equipped with a fluid coupling. This model is well known and popular in Russia; it is still quite common on our roads.
In 2003, the T5 appeared, which was no longer revolutionary, but rather a thoroughly modified T4. Then the designers faced a problem: all previous generations had enjoyed overwhelming popularity and it was necessary to create a car that would maintain the reputation of the legend.
Ideologically, the machine remained the same. Like its predecessor T4, T5 has a front-wheel drive layout with a transverse engine. The most noticeable change in the interior is the gearshift knob, which has moved to the tide of the front panel and at the same time got rid of vibrations.
In 2009, the car underwent a deep restyling. In the wake of worldwide downsizing, the range of engines has completely changed; now all engines under the hood of the Transporter T5 have the same displacement - 2.0 liters in petrol and diesel versions; due to firmware and turbochargers, the power range is from 84 to 204 hp. For the first time, it was on these minibuses that the biturbo system appeared (diesel versions with a power of 180 hp, 420 Nm).
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The interior of the expensive versions of the Caravelle and Multivan is almost car-like in both design and equipment.
The interior of the expensive versions of the Caravelle and Multivan is almost car-like in both design and equipment.
Comfort mode is also not very relevant here, because the roads, despite the climate, are almost ideal, and speed bumps can still be felt and heard - the suspension makes a knock on the rebound. Perhaps this is a flaw in the pre-production copies presented in the test - we should take a production car in Russia and shake it over our potholes. And at the same time, try out the 4Motion all-wheel drive, because the Swedish “grader” proposed as an off-road vehicle turned out to be a little smoother than highways near Moscow.
IN THE WORKING WAY
The Cargo Transporter is completely different. As befits a van, it is much simpler: one-color, on stamped wheels, with inexpensive upholstery fabrics and simple interior plastic. Of course, by the standards of commercial vehicles, everything is decent: the steering wheel is covered in leather, there is cruise control, a color display, a navigation system and a rear view camera.
In terms of controls, the Transporter is expectedly closer to cargo vans: in particular, the clutch has a longer stroke and a more stretched grip point. The turbodiesel is also a two-liter engine, but it has half the power - 102 hp. But the engine wakes up noticeably earlier - around 1000 rpm, and the dynamics are quite tolerable (though I drove without ballast). But the transmission range is shorter and the gearbox is five-speed, so both noise and consumption increase at high speed.
All the details about the sixth generation Transporter, Caravelle and Multivan
May 30 10:00 2015 by AMSRUS
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The sixth generation of the T series includes the Transporter, Multivan, Caravelle models, as well as a car ideal for road trips - California. For all models, the developers have provided two wheelbase options and three roof height options; together with a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines, the number of vehicle modifications can reach 500.
Exterior and interior
Despite the fact that the new generation of the T series has a modern, interesting appearance, all models have retained classic style features.
From the front, T6 cars now look completely different, primarily due to the lowered front bumper, which gives the cars a more dynamic appearance. Transporter, Multivan and Caravelle are not very different from each other, but have small original “highlights”. For example, Transporter and Caravelle Trendline have a bumper made of dark solid plastic. The radiator grille can be matte or high-gloss black, with one or three chrome slats. The Multivan Highline has a fourth chrome strip added to the lower air intake.
Depending on the configuration, cars are supplied with standard, improved or LED headlights. The standard equipment of one of the top-end Multivan Highline trim levels includes new LED headlights.
The T Series rear design features a wide, lowered rear window and a low-mounted license plate recess. The rear view mirrors were also lowered. A horizontal stripe runs across the entire rear bumper, emphasizing the width and stability of the models.
The new T6 Series range will be available in 17 exterior colours, many of which are completely new to these vehicles.
In addition, the exclusive Multivan Generation SIX series is available in two-tone color schemes with Mojave Beige Metallic, Cherry Red, Bamboo Garden Green Metallic (base color Candy White) and Acapulco Blue Metallic (base color Reflex Silver).
Volkswagen offers exclusive color combinations for certain trim levels: for example, Fluorescent orange and Pure gray for cargo vans and the Caravelle Trendline model.
An additional option is a wide range of metallic paints, including the stylish black Deep with a pearlescent effect and the delicate white pearlescent Oryx.
The interior of all sixth-generation T-series cars is characterized by the manufacturer's utmost attention to detail and the use of only high-quality finishing materials.
The clearly defined instrument panel is divided horizontally into four levels, which house easy-to-read instruments. The feeling of symmetry and ideal order is also created by the harmony of horizontal and vertical elements of the interior, and in the dark - soft background lighting in the doors and foot areas.
There are three steering wheel options to choose from: plastic, leather and multifunctional leather. Fabric, eco-leather, Alcantara and genuine leather are used for seat upholstery.
Cars of the T6 series are distinguished by high functionality not only of the instrument panel, but also of the entire interior due to the presence of many storage compartments. Depending on the configuration, the car is equipped with a standard, hybrid or luxury dashboard. The hybrid instrument panel is new for this model line, complemented by a wide center console. Only the Multivan Trendline version is equipped with this panel.
Customers are also offered a wide choice in terms of model dimensions: two length options (4892 and 5292 mm), four height options (1970 mm, Multivan Highline models - 1950 mm, 2176 mm and 2476 mm) and three ground clearance options: standard (in Transporter models), reduced by 20 mm (in the Multivan model) and reduced by 40 mm (vehicles with the BlueMotion package and dynamic suspension). In addition, the use of Seikel suspension allows the ground clearance to be increased by 30 mm.
Thus, the cargo capacity of cars can be from 3.5 cubic meters. m to 9.3 cu.m. m. The load capacity of the models ranges from 502 to 1224 kg.
Engines
For the sixth T Series, Volkswagen has developed a completely new generation of diesel engines, the EA288. The priorities in their creation were strength and durability. Engine power is 62, 75, 110 and 150 kW. The 150 kW engine is based on two-stage variable turbocharging technology; the remaining options use a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry. The torque of the most powerful engine option in the line is 450 Nm at 1400 – 2400 rpm, which for the first time made it possible to achieve a maximum vehicle speed of more than 200 km/h.
The new generation of diesel engines have a distinctive layout: the intake and exhaust valves are not located next to each other, but follow each other, so they are controlled by both camshafts. This arrangement improves the preparation of the mixture and optimizes its combustion process: fuel consumption, as well as the level of harmful emissions, are reduced, despite the fact that the engines have more power. According to the manufacturer, average fuel economy was 1 liter per 100 km. The leaders in engine efficiency are those equipped with the BlueMotion package and motors with a power of 75 and 110 kW.
Gasoline engines for the T6 series are four-cylinder EA888 power units with a displacement of 2 liters with a power of 110 or 150 kW and a maximum torque of 280 and 350 Nm (at 1500 rpm). These engines were used in previous generation T-series cars; in the new model range they feature a lightweight design, increased ride comfort, reduced fuel consumption and higher performance characteristics.
All powertrains supplied with the T Series are equipped with an Engine-Start-Stop system.
The engines are paired with a five- or six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. 4MOTION all-wheel drive is also available, both manual and automatic.
Chassis
The chassis of the T series is one of its main advantages. Despite the high capacity and significant dimensions, these models are distinguished by good handling, dynamism and stability. The front suspension is independent MacPherson, the rear suspension is with a diagonal wishbone and separately installed springs and shock absorbers. In sixth-generation cars, the transverse links and anti-roll bar are not attached directly to the body, but to a subframe secured with silent blocks. This design effectively eliminates vibrations and improves ride comfort.
The chassis received an adaptive control system (DCC), which reduces roll during longitudinal and lateral acceleration of the vehicle and provides the ability to customize the driving style (comfortable, normal, sporty).
The ride height varies depending on the model. The lowest is for the Multivan (20 mm less than the standard value), as well as for trim levels with an optional sports suspension, which also features stiffer shock absorbers. The standard equipment of the Multivan Highline version includes dynamic suspension and Servotronic power steering, which improves directional stability, maneuverability and controllability of the vehicle.
T6 series vehicles are available with several wheel options. Caravelle Comfortline and Multivan Trendline are equipped with 16-inch Clayton steel wheels, supplied with the previous generation. Versions with more powerful engines, such as the Multivan Comfortline, received 17-inch Devonport alloy wheels. Optionally available with 18-inch Springfield alloy wheels. The exclusive Generation SIX series is available with 18-inch Disc alloy wheels.
Comfort and safety systems
Among the comfort and safety systems of the sixth generation T-series cars:
– Front Assist front distance control system, standard installed on Multivan Business, optionally offered for Transporter models; – customizable adaptive cruise control; – City Emergency Braking function, operating at speeds up to 30 km/h; – a new option – Light Assist headlight control assistant, which automatically turns the high beam headlights on and off; – Rest Assist driver warning system, which provides audio and visual signals when detecting deviations from normal driving style; – electronic voice amplification system, allowing the driver not to strain when talking with passengers; – optional Rear View camera; – parking assistant; – Hill Descent Assist (only available for vehicles with 4MOTION all-wheel drive); – stability control system (ESP); – electric windshield heating system with rain sensor; – rear view mirror with automatic dimming function.
Infomedia systems
For vehicles of the T6 series, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers the latest infomedia systems. All variants have hands-free hands-free calling systems and a 5.0-inch or 6.33-inch touchscreen display (except the basic version). Depending on the equipment, the vehicles may be equipped with a Comfort communication interface for mobile phones.
Infomedia systems are presented in four versions.
The first, basic one is Composition Audio with two speakers (four for Caravelle Comfortline and Multivan Trendline). The device includes a card reader for SD cards, a USB connector and an analog AUX-IN connector.
The second is Composition Color with four speakers (and an additional four speakers in the rear for Caravelle, Multivan, California). The system is complemented by a dual tuner and a dual diversity phased antenna for better radio signal reception, and there is a USB connector. DAB radio and Dynaudio sound system are also available as options.
The third is Composition Media with a 6.33-inch color capacitive touch display. Options include DAB radio, an auxiliary USB port, Dynaudio sound system and Driver Voice Enhancement.
The top version of the infomedia system is Discover Media, which is additionally equipped with navigator functions and has the option of offline storage of maps on a memory card, and can also be connected to a tablet computer.
Volkswagen Transporter
The sixth generation Transporter cargo van is available in three versions – Cargo Van, Flatbed Cargo Van and Kombi Van. All all-metal versions have a sliding door on the passenger side.
The cargo van is equipped with a rear liftgate as standard, and an option with double-hinged doors is available as an option. It is also possible to purchase the new Transporter with an additional sliding door on the driver's side as an option. As a standard, the cargo van is supplied without windows; optionally, one or more windows can be placed in the cargo compartment. The maximum loading width of the vehicle is 1692 mm, the cargo compartment area in the basic version is 4.3 square meters. m, volume – 5.8 cubic meters. m. There is also a version with an extended wheelbase.
The Kombi version, depending on the modification, can have up to nine seats arranged in three or four rows. The car's passenger seats can be removed without any special tools, and the three-seat rear seat is undivided and can be folded forward. An additional heater radiator can be installed in the rear of the cabin. The Kombi van is available in a variety of passenger or cargo configurations.
The special vehicle is a special version of the Kombi – the Transporter Kombi Doka Plus double-cab model, well suited for transporting both passengers and cargo. Its capacity is up to six people. The interior space of the model is divided into two parts: a cargo area, which can only be accessed from the rear, and a passenger area, which can be accessed through sliding side doors.
Volkswagen Multivan
In the interior of this car, depending on the configuration, special swivel seats are installed - one or two - in the second row. They are mounted on modified rails and can be installed face-to-face, opposite each other, or facing forward, providing more space and comfort. Any operations with the seats do not require their removal from the interior.
The car seats have special mounts for installing child seats; there is also a modification with built-in child seats.
The Multivan model is a real transformer, the configuration of which can be changed at the request of the owner: the design of the interior and the capacity of the luggage compartment change.
The basic version of the Multivan Trendline is a five-seater car with an updated interior, a modern air conditioning system, a Composition Color infomedia system, a sliding door with a built-in table that can be removed and used outside the car.
The seven-seater Multivan Comfortline is a more stylish and comfortable version of the model with semi-automatic climate control Climatronic, folding sunshades, cargo area curtain, built-in table, multifunction steering wheel, rain sensor, auto-dimming rearview mirror and a second door as an option.
The seven-seater Multivan Highline is one of two luxury trim levels of the model. The seats here are upholstered in Alcantara, sliding doors are located on both the passenger and driver's sides and are equipped with electric drives. Tri-zone Climatronic air conditioning is standard.
The Multivan Business package has a special level of comfort and is intended for business passengers. The interior is decorated with wooden mosaics and wood panels, the seats are upholstered in nappa leather. The single seats are electrically adjustable and heated. The bench seat has a special refrigerated niche built into it for drinks and snacks. This version of the car is equipped with a sliding multifunctional table and a Dynaudio audio system that provides high quality sound.
Volkswagen Caravelle
Volkswagen Caravelle is a full-size passenger minivan. The main difference from the Multivan modification is the arrangement of seats due to fixed combinations of their location: there are 21 of them. The maximum capacity of the model is nine passengers.
The Caravelle Comfortline package includes carpet throughout the entire floor area of the car, sun blinds, semi-automatic Climatic air conditioning, an additional heater for the rear, height-adjustable driver and front passenger seats with two armrests and lumbar support and the Composition Audio infomedia system.
The luxury Caravelle Highline is a premium minivan with three-zone Climatronic automatic air conditioning, leather upholstery, illuminated trims and a modern lighting system, as well as a Composition Color infomedia system and an electric liftgate as standard options.
T Series models are among the most popular cars in their segment around the world.
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09-VW-T6_zr-09_15
Transporter is almost Spartan: less electronics, cheaper materials, storage compartments without lids.
Transporter is almost Spartan: less electronics, cheaper materials, storage compartments without lids.
The cargo compartment is lined with plastic (various finishing options are available to order), the cargo securing brackets are neatly recessed into the floor, and there are grooves on the walls for installing a shelf. It's a pity, the rear lights make the doorway a little narrower, and the paint on the uncovered wheel arches will probably peel off quickly. But these are almost all the jambs that I noticed.
I check the sliding door lock, closing it with minimal force, and, to my surprise, the servo carefully retracts it flush with the side panel. This Transporter is not so simple!
HAPPY PROMOTION!
It takes years for someone to move up the career ladder, but I grew from a courier to a top manager in an instant - moving to the flagship Multivan Business.
The 150-horsepower 2.0 TSI petrol engine has good dynamics and ease of traction control, but it is heard more than a turbodiesel - at least for those sitting in the front seats. The seven-speed DSG robot shifts smoothly and on time.
Vehicle Specifications
The Multivan model minibus is equipped with 2 diesel engines of three models developing 102, 140 and 180 hp. With. from the TDI series. The car can also be equipped with TSI petrol power units with a capacity of 150 and 204 hp. With. The car has 4MOTION all-wheel drive with a mechanical differential lock and DSG automatic transmission. The adaptive three-mode DCC suspension provides a smooth ride on any road.
Diesel and gasoline engines installed on Caravelle are easy to start in any frost, thanks to the coolant heating system. The car has excellent technical characteristics:
- Fuel tank capacity - 80 l;
- Cruising range on one fill up to 1300 km;
- Acceleration to 100 km/h - 9.5 s.
The machine is equipped with a steep slope assist, which protects it from lateral turns and minimizes the risk of tipping over.
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You can choose the finish of the cargo area.
Plastic does not scratch, it is easy to wash. You can choose the finish of the cargo area. Plastic does not scratch, it is easy to wash.
I liked the Side Assist system lights in the mirrors, warning about the presence of traffic in the adjacent lane: noticeable, but not too bright. The mirrors, by the way, were moved lower on all versions of the T6 so as not to increase the blind spot behind the A-pillar.
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Transporter is traditionally presented in a wide range of modifications with several lengths and heights: cargo van, combi and chassis.
Transporter is traditionally presented in a wide range of modifications with several lengths and heights: cargo van, combi and chassis.
PLUS : The variety of versions is impressive MINUS: There are shortcomings that still need to be corrected
We are looking for utility and comfort in the new Volkswagen Transporter, Caravelle and Multivan
