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Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Life Estate (2008-2010) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 40 - 45 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

For its size, the Maxi Life offers decent economy and the 1.9 TDI version is capable of 45mpg while the more powerful 2.0 TDI is almost as good with an average of 44mpg. Do bear in mind that not every Volkswagen dealer may be able to service the Caddy Maxi Life, which may mean travelling further than your local dealer. However, labour rates should be competitive.

It also has a longer distance warranty than standard passenger cars – 100,000 miles rather than 60,000 miles – although it’s still for the same three year period.

The Caddy Maxi Life is only available with diesel engines that keep economy up and emissions low. The 1.9 TDI emits 164g/km CO2 as a manual and 185g/km as a DSG automatic. The larger 2.0-litre diesel puts out 169g/km of CO2. Both engines are capable of at least 40mpg.

After several years in service, the Caddy has built up an enviable record for reliability in rough and tumble conditions and the people carrier version should perform equally well.