AIMS: VW Caddy goes 4Motion

VOLKSWAGEN used today’s Melbourne motor show opening to release 4Motion versions of its popular Caddy, which becomes the first commercial van in Australia to be available with all-wheel drive.

VW’s 4Motion AWD system commands a $3500 price premium on the top-shelf long-wheelbase Caddy Maxi Van TDI320 at $36,490 plus on-road costs with a six-speed DSG automatic transmission.

The same AWD advantages are now also available for Volkswagen’s flagship Caddy Maxi Life TDI320 Comfortline long-wheelbase seven-seat people-mover, which is priced $4500 higher than the front-drive version at $45,490 plus ORCs with a six-speed DSG auto.

The combination of VW’s fourth-generation Haldex clutch-operated 4Motion system and a DSG auto was first seen in the Volkswagen Commercial range in the facelifted T5 Transporter and people-mover range.

As with the existing Caddy TDI320 models, both AWD versions will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel that produces 103kW of power and 320Nm of torque between 1500 and 2500rpm.

Fuel consumption is listed at 6.7 litres per 100km for the Caddy Maxi Van and 6.8L/100km for the Caddy Maxi Life, with CO2 emissions stated at a respective 177 grams per kilometre and 179g/km.

Both models will also feature dual sliding rear doors, ESP electronic stability control and hill start assist as standard.

In line with the facelifted Caddy Maxi released here in December, both models will wear a completely redesigned front-end that combines the grille and headlights into a single visual unit.

Both models also gain other recent upgrades including new instruments, a sportier three-spoke steering wheel, new-look climate controls, aheight-adjustable front centre armrest and the addition of under-seat front storage drawers.

The Caddy Maxi Life 4Motion adds a RCD310 AM/FM/CD sound system, Climatronic dual-zone air-conditioning, trip computer, cruise control, leather-clad steering wheel with multi-function controls and a ‘Light & Sight’ package comprising dusk-sensing headlights with ‘coming home’ function, rain-sensing wipers, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

Exterior additions for the people-mover version also include 100kg-rated roof rails, painted bumpers, 16-inch alloy wheels, H7 headlights, tinted rear side windows and a chrome trim package including grille and foglight surrounds.

Like their front-drive siblings, the Caddy Maxi Van 4Motion measures 1.836 metres long, while the Caddy Max Life 4Motion is 1.886 metres long and features removable second and third-row seats that liberate 3880 litres of cargo space.