Why you should consider the Volkswagen Caddy
The Volkswagen Caddy has been around for a number of years now. Most commonly used in the commercial sector, those in the private sector looking for a spacious, well-built, and easy to live with MPV should consider the latest Caddy, and here is why.
Design
Yes, it looks like a van, that’s because it is a van. This new model however does feature some styling elements in the form of an attractive front bumper, stylistic headlights, chrome detailing, and elegant rim designs. The Caddy looks good but it is only once you get inside that you can truly appreciate the benefits that this vehicle has to offer.
Interior
Step inside and you are greeted by a familiar Volkswagen dashboard design as seen on others in the stable. The infotainment system has been pulled from others such as the Polo Vivo GT and it features Apple Car Play which is a big plus in our books. Ergonomically the facia is well designed and even though you sit somewhat upright the buttons and other controls are easy to get to.
The interior offers a host of storage compartments that have been cleverly designed to hide clutter and provide for extra space. While on the subject of space the Caddy offers loads of it. The two rear sliding doors make it easy to get in and out of in tight parking spaces. Once inside, rear passengers will benefit from ample head and legroom. If one wants flexible space for five, or even seven, nothing comes close in offering as much cargo space as the Caddy and its closest competitor, the Opel Combo Life. The Caddy offers 750l of luggage space.
Under the bonnet
One will find a three-cylinder 1.0 TSI petrol motor. Before you raise an eye-brow it is worth noting that this particular unit has made it into a number of VW models and it remains one of our favourite 3-pot motors. The new engine makes 75kW and 175Nm and it’s a nicely refined, matted to a slick five-speed manual gearbox. Our Caddy returned an impressive economy — 5,9l/100km. These figures combined with what is a relatively comfortable driving experience make the Caddy ideal for long road trips.
Verdict
It’s effortless to drive and nimble around town despite its dimensions and it retains the practicality value that no-one can object to. It is a quality product and one that should be considered if you are looking for a value for money proposition that offers a good ride quality and loads of space. Don’t forget that it also has a very good badge on the front after all.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the Volkswagen Caddy cost in South Africa?
The Volkswagen Caddy starts from around R485,000 for the base 1.0 TSI manual variant, making it a competitive option in the MPV space when you consider the massive amount of space you get for your money.
Q: Is the Volkswagen Caddy worth buying?
The Caddy is absolutely worth buying if you need maximum space and practicality, especially with its 750-litre boot capacity, sliding rear doors, and that brilliant 1.0 TSI engine that punches well above its weight.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Volkswagen Caddy 1.0 TSI?
The 1.0 TSI three-cylinder engine delivers impressive fuel consumption of around 5.8 litres per 100km, which is excellent for such a spacious vehicle that can haul seven people and their luggage.
Q: What are the main competitors to the Volkswagen Caddy?
The Caddy's closest rival is the Opel Combo Life, but few other vehicles can match the combination of space, build quality, and practicality that the Caddy offers at this price point.
Q: Does the Volkswagen Caddy have good safety features?
The Caddy comes with essential safety features including multiple airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control, plus the benefit of Volkswagen's solid build quality that the brand is known for.
Should You Buy It?
The best spacious MPV under R500,000 in SA is definitely the Volkswagen Caddy 1.0 TSI at R485,000. If you need a vehicle that can comfortably seat seven people, swallow 750 litres of luggage, and still return decent fuel economy, the Caddy is a no-brainer. That 1.0 TSI engine is a gem, the sliding doors are brilliant for tight parking spaces, and you get proper Volkswagen build quality. Sure, it looks like a van because it is one, but that's exactly why it works so well as a family hauler. The only reason not to buy one is if you care more about looking flash than being practical, and frankly, that's your loss.
