Volkswagen Transporter Kombi T30

Facts, figures, likes and dislikes

Official MPG: 36.7mpg
Our average MPG – N/A
Our best MPG – N/A
We like: Easy to drive, spacious load area, all the standard kit, comfortable and refined performer, high quality
We don’t like: App Connect system not working, are those 18-inch wheels too big?

THE T6 Volkswagen Transporter has only been on sale for a couple of months, yet it already has won the coveted International Van of The Year award for 2016. More awards are sure to follow in 2016 and now a 2.0-litre 140 Kombi, in range-topping Highline trim has joined the Business Vans fleet.

KV15ZBP came straight from the press fleet and although we had a choice of specification and model, we had to take what we were given in terms of colour.

So, first thought when it was delivered just over a week ago was it was very blue, with blingy wheels! Further study of the spec list revealed both the Acapulco Metallic paint and those chromed 18-inch Springfield alloys have come from the options list costing £606 and £2,100 respectively.

So why are we running this T6 for the next couple of months? Well, we already know what a great van the last T5 was; in fact it’s the current recipient of our Best Crew Van. So it made sense to go for the latest version of the ‘Kombi’ Crew Van.

However, we reckon it’s going to be more interesting to see what it’s like to live with the bigger, 140ps engine and seven-speed DSG transmission of our long-termer on a daily basis.

The T6 was put into action straight away and we’ve already covered a few hundred miles together. Our initial thoughts are that the T6’s new dashboard is well designed, with plenty of stowage and all the switchgear is logically placed.

Highline is the top spec Transporter and a five-inch touchscreen infotainment is fitted as standard. So far we’re liking the DAB radio, which we missed on our last Volkswagen van long-termer – the Caddy. However, the App Connect system, which is supposed to include Apple Car Play isn’t working – which is annoying. It says it needs to be configured by a dealer. Anyway, we’ll be contacting the Volkswagen Press Office to see if they can come up with a solution.

On the move, the Transporter has so far impressed with its calm and refined drive – especially with the DSG transmission. The 140ps diesel engine is torquey and acceleration is sped up nicely when selecting the Sport mode of the gearbox.

The only slight bump on the horizon is those expensive, optional 18-inch wheels – which I’ve noticed one of which has been kerbed by a previous borrower in just 1,500 miles. So far they are giving a slightly chunky ride. It’s still early days and with lots of long trips planned with the family over Christmas – including the usual visits to relatives, I’m sure we’ll get used to and bond with this van.