Reviews - Volkswagen

Overall Rating

A cross between the classic VW camper van and a passenger version of the Transporter, it's debatable whether to describe as an MPV but it sits firmly within the Volkswagen van range. Suitable for large families, group holidays and transporting workmen around.

• Strong diesel engine
• Versatile space
• Good re-sale value

• Un-inspiring looks
• More expensive than competitors
• A van trying to be an expensive MPV

A larger functional alternative between an MPV and a minibus the Caravelle's sheer size and bulk offers plenty of protection, and standard equipment includes ABS anti-lock brakes, twin front, side and head airbags, ASR traction control and an electronic differential lock; ESP and Brake Assist are options. All rear seats have three-point seatbelts, and the outer seats on the rear bench have ISOFIX child seat mounting points. Rear curtain airbags are a further option. Security measures include remote central locking with deadlocks, an alarm and immobiliser, child locks and an internal release for the rear tailgate. The high seating position gives excellent all-round vision, and the square-shaped body makes parking easier especially with the parking sensors. The driving position is comfortable but it does feel more like a van than a passenger car. Steering is heavy even with the power steering. There is a choice of three diesel engines: 1.9 TDI PD 104bhp, 2.5 TDI PD 130bhp and 2.5 TDI PD 174bhp. Plus one petrol: the 235bhp 3.2-litre V6 petrol unit in combination with 4MOTION four-wheel drive and Tiptronic semi-automatic transmission. A seven-seater cabin configuration is standard, the passenger seats slide, fold, rotate and swivel. The rear bench can be converted to a double bed, camper van style, and there is a good number of storage boxes, drawers, trays and cubby holes. There is always a degree of comfort that your VW will last and the sturdy body of the Caravelle gives confidence it will last the distance. So far in testing the diesel engines are strong and adequate of moving this heavy vehicle around. The 130 bhp feels quicker and VW state it will do 0-60mph in 15.3 seconds. All versions will cruise well and cope with hills. It's a large, weighty vehicle, and fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions reflect this. The 3.2 V6 returns 21.9mpg and 310g/km, the 174bhp diesel 31.7mpg and 240g/km, the 130bhp diesel 31mpg and 246g/km and the 104bhp model 36.7mpg and 208g/km. The Caravelle rides surprisingly well for a van-based design, with vibrations and noise successfully suppressed.

VW are generally priced at the top of their ranges but they do hold their value well for-resale. The Caravelle is classed as a van but sits on the edge of the MPV range although far more expensive than the average MPV. Strong, sturdy and durable but as a second hand buyer watch out for high mileage Caravelle's that have been used as taxi's.