Volkswagen Caddy review (2010-2015)
PROS
- Drives like a small car
- Good build quality
- Fuel-efficient BlueMotion version
CONS
- High running costs
- Relatively small loadspace
- Quite expensive
Summary
The 2010 VW Caddy is heavily upgraded and facelifted version of the popular third generation Volkswagen Caddy (introduced in 2003), and VW has given this version of the Touran-based model a fresh new look.
There’s a new range of engines and it comes in two variants, the standard-length Caddy and the longer Caddy Maxi.
There are more optional extras than on the previous generation including six- and seven-speed DSG automatic transmission, 4Motion four-wheel drive, Bluetooth connectivity, adaptive cornering lights and roof rails.
It was the most reliable van in its class, accodring to the 2014 Van Reliability Survey.
The third generation Volkswagen Caddy was replaced by the fourth-generation Volkswagen Caddy in 2015.
The Read on for the full Volkswagen Caddy review to find out more or click here to read the history of the model.
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Four diesel engines were available on the Caddy range from launch; two 1.6-litre TDi engines and two 2.0 TDi engines, although the lower-powered 2.0-litre variant was later dropped.
The lower-powered 1.6-litre TDI has a power output of 75hp while the higher-powered version of the same engine has 102hp.
The lower-powered 2.0-litre TDI engine was available with 4Motion (VW’s four-wheel drive system) and had a power output of 109hp, while the higher-powered 2.0-litre engine has an output of 140hp.
The two 1.6-litre units are coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, with the 2.0-litre version benefitting from an extra gear.
VW’s smooth and precise automatic DSG transmissions are optional on the 102hp (seven-speed) and the 140hp (six-speed).
The Caddy has almost car-like handling and this will suit van drivers who need a practical, manoeuvrable vehicle for delivering goods in towns and city centres.
The suspension is borrowed from the Golf/Touran platform, so the Caddy deals with bends pretty well, even when laden. It’s quite nimble, lively even, and although there is a little body roll when cornering it does feel like a well set-up vehicle
The Caddy has a sturdy, but dull interior. The plastics are hard wearing and the dashboard itself resembles that of a VW car.
Road noise has been well suppressed and inside, it’s all very logical. The controls are well laid out and within easy reach of the driver.
The front seats offer good support are height, reach and rake adjustable - vital on long journeys - and there’s plenty of space for both passengers and driver. The steering wheel is also rake and reach adjustable.
Even the basic radio comes with an MP3 and auxiliary input, while the Trendline and Highline feature Bluetooth connectivity with multifunction display, rear parking sensors, trip computer, cruise control and extra storage compartments, including hidden ones under the seats.
The most cost-efficient Caddy is the fuel-seving BlueMotion version, powered by a 1.6 TDI engine with an output of 102hp.
Originally it claimed 55.4mpg average (to give a potential range of 735 miles on one tank of diesel). At the start of 2014 a new BlueMotion model was released with even better figures: 61.4mpg, and a theoretical range of 800 miles from a tankful of diesel.
On the maintenance front, servicing your van at a Volkswagen centre may prove to be more expensive than if you were servicing a Peugeot Partner or a Ford Transit Connect at one of their franchised dealers, but often the VW service experience is of a higher standard.
VW mechanicals are well proven and Volkswagen Caddy reliability should stand up well to the rigours of commercial use.
In May 2018, VW launched an MOT insurance scheme that's available for free to owners of qualifying vans and pickups that are 10 years old or younger.
Volkswagen Caddy safety and security kit levels are high.
Standard safety equipment includes:
- Electronic stability control
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Traction control
- Automatic hazard lights activation under emergency braking
- Driver and front passenger airbags
- Front side airbags
- Electronic differential lock
- Engine drag torque control
- Daytime running lights
- Thatcham immobiliser and alarm
