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Van Reviews » Volkswagen Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Van 1.9 & 2.0-litre TDI PDVerdict In a class of its own, the Caddy Maxi has it all – speed, comfort and a good load capacity The Caddy Maxi was launched as a new class of compact van, sitting between the existing Caddy and Transporter models. Its size, volume and payload exceed the Caddy and it is available in three variations – a panel van, a five-seat window van with a second row of seats and an MPV with seven seats in three rows. Offered with a choice of two powerful turbodiesel diesel engines – a 1.9 or 2.0-litre TDI producing 104 PS and a range topping 140 PS respectively. Each of the Pumpe Duse engines are offered with a five-speed manual or an advanced 6 speed DSG gearbox with DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). We were lucky enough to test drive both vans and found the 6 speed DSG gearbox a real treat. It was effortless to manouevre and the auto-transmission was smooth even at low speed. The brakes were highly responsive, almost too sharp at times making for a jerky approach at times. The turning circle was tight, making the van highly appealing to a city-based business. The steering was light and needed little effort to command, making for a thoroughly enjoyable ride. The rear parking sensors were indeed helpful, but were an unnecessary luxury due to the large, wing mirrors which enabled excellent vision to the rear. Stepping into the Caddy Maxi was like revisiting an old friend – the cabin is modelled on a Volkswagen Golf therefore comfort and style are key. Space for a clipboard on the dash, overhead storage, and deep door pockets add extra possibilities to a spacious cabin. We were particularly pleased to note the absence of a glove box replaced with an in-dash storage tray which presented more storage possibilities. The 4 drinks holders between the seats, electric windows as standard and the mirrors in the sun-visors were both reminiscent of the VW badge, as was the stylish, aluminium plated stereo system. The seats were very comfortable with easy to use seat adjusters maximising vision and control behind the wheel. The full height plastic bulkhead felt slightly hollow and would have been better in steel.
Access to your load is made easy by the twin side sliding doors which are standard and the rear doors which open to a maximum 180 degrees. The floor is light and springy and there are plenty of options for securing your load. We particularly liked the two handy side compartments for storing smaller objects. The payload has been increased by 80kg in comparison to the Caddy, and is highly competitive in relation to others vans on the market of a similar size.
Verdict Engines: 1.9 / 2.0 TDI
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