VOLKSWAGEN arguably invented the people-mover genre with its 1949 Type 2 T1 Kombi. For 2010 it has introduced a half-step change for the T5 van range with the significantly revised T5 GP range, thinning down the Caravelle model to one long-wheelbase nine-seat version with the new Euro 5 103kW TDI diesel engine and seven-speed DSG transmission. Has the new powertrain, facelifted front, lower price and raft of other minor changes made the Caravelle a better bus?

T5 Series
Released: August 2004
Ended: March 2010
Family Tree: CaravelleTHE second-generation front-engine VW van range built on the success of its 1992 T4 predecessor with a vastly improved interior, safety, refinement and driveability.The Caravelle sat below the luxury Multivan in the range of T5 people-mover models, and was available in short- and long-wheelbase bodies, front drive and all-wheel drive and with the choice of two diesel engines: the 96kW/340Nm or 128kW/400Nm 2.5-litre five-pot TDI that offered a six-speed auto as well as six-speed manual.
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