Five things that can be enjoyed in the all-new 2021 Volkswagen Caravelle

The new Volkswagen Caravelle is a top of the range, luxurious model above the Transporter. It features the latest infotainment and connectivity, boasts space, offers comfortability for all occupants on board and allows you to enjoy a smooth driving experience like no other. This was surely one of Women On Wheels‘ best tests yet!

Here are my thoughts on the 2.0-litre bi-turbo luxurious minibus:

It’s practical

The Caravelle has seven seats inside its cabin and is well-suited for big or small families who often hit the long road or enjoy a camping trip on weekends and need the extra space.

The seats are fixed to a railing system with the rear bench and middle seats able to slide forward and back, depending on the amount of legroom that’s needed or preferred. What makes this vehicle more spacious is the rear seat back can be folded down, creating a flat surface that can be used to load much longer and bigger items.

The middle row of individual seats can swivel and features a centred foldable table. You can either face the seat forward or behind for a great family gathering while social distancing, with electric sliding doors on the left and right for easy in and out access.

Good performance

The all-new 2.0-litre bi-turbodiesel on-road performance is outstanding. The diesel engine delivers a total of 146 kW with 450 Nm of torque mated to a 7-speed automatic dual-clutch (DSG) gearbox. Not bad for a Kombi I’d say!

It’s economical

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Caravelle’s urban fuel consumption is 10.0l/100km, extra urban is at a surprising 6.4l/100km. Its average fuel consumption lies at 8.2l/100km and emissions averaging at 214g/km.

What about the tech and safety? 

The all-new Volkswagen Caravelle features an Antilock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Traction control, Stability control, tyre pressure monitor deflation detection system, six airbags, lane departure warning, land change blind spot warning assist monitor, attention assist rest assist break alert, Automatic drive away locking, electric childproof safety lock switch, ISOfix child seat mountings and approach home sage lighting time delay park headlights.

Not only does the Caravelle have a multifunctional steering wheel, but it also boasts an onboard computer multi-information display. Navigation, Cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, Aux-in auxiliary input, USB port and a Powersocket 12V to charge your mobile on-the-go, or simply pump up a mattress at a camp.

What makes this Caravelle turn heads?

I instantly fell in love with this All-Wheel-Drive Volkswagen along with its two-toned colour. I even called it my personalised ‘surf joy on wheels’. The Daytime driving running lights along with the Xenon headlights, day or night, adds to the luxurious look of this Caravelle. The design is quite pleasing to the eye and caught the attention of many whilst driving through Muizenberg on a Sunday cruise.

With 17-inch alloy wheels and a ground clearance of 178mm, this Kombi is ready for any on-road or dirt-road adventure.

Model tested: Volkswagen Caravelle 2.0BiTDI Highline 4Motion

Price: R1,203 000

Warranty: 3-year/120 000km

Maintenance: 5-year/60 000km

Service: 15 000km service plan

Picture/s: Leigh-Ann Londt