Best Local Delivery Van – Volkswagen Caddy 1.6TDI Highline 102PS C20

THE Volkswagen Caddy has built up an awesome reputation for build quality, reliability and excellent residual values – it’s hardly surprising that the judges chose this van to win the sector.

It has a smart, distinctive curvy shape that creates a great impression for image conscious businesses wanting to get noticed and create a professional appearance in their area.

And beauty isn’t just skin deep. Once aboard, the Caddy offers wonderfully supportive seats and ride and handling qualities that feel as if it’s on rails.

For maximum value and style, there are three trim levels, starting with the Startline for the budget conscious.  Trendline and Highline trim levels add further specification and value, including convenient items such as reversing sensors, Bluetooth, body-coloured bumpers, alloy wheels, air conditioning and electric windows.

It may be small, but the Caddy has a practical load volume of 3.2 cu m with payloads from 650kg to 682kg, and can take loads up to 1.78m.  There is also a choice of 1.6-litre or 2.0-litre TDI engines, including efficient BlueMotion models, with practical features for delivery drivers, such as start/stop, energy recuperation and hill hold assist. Power outputs range from 75bhp up to 140bhp, with excellent fuel economy ranging from 44.8 to 55.4 mpg on the combined cycle.

Urban driving environments can be busy and therefore sometimes dangerous, but the Caddy helps its drivers with the option of smooth DSG (semi-automatic) transmission, plus standard class-leading safety features, such as ESP to keep the vehicle under control in slippery conditions, and daytime running lights for maximum visibility at all times.

One of our judges summed the Caddy up thus: ” The van that thinks it’s a car. Good driving position, safety, comfort and fuel efficiency make this a valuable, efficient solution for those businesses that need a van but don’t really want one.”