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VW improves van drivers' lot

  • New Caddy van and people carrier range
  • Stability control standard, Bluetooth optional
  • On sale in November, priced from £12,000 (est)

Written by Parkers Published: 26 July 2010 Updated: 1 February 2017

Volkswagen is to launch its new Caddy van with a raft of hi-tech features borrowed from its car range, with Bluetooth telephony, ESP stability control and an energy saving stop/start system available.

Due to go on sale in November, the new Caddy range borrows the family face styling from the Polo and Golf models, with narrower, slanted headlights mounted around a back grille.

New rear light units and the availability of roof rails complete the exterior changes, while inside are new instruments, steering wheel design and new look stereo/sat-nav systems.

To boost safety, Bluetooth hands-free telephony is available, while ESP stability control will be standard on all models. Daytime running lights and the automatic activation of the hazard warning lights under heavy braking complete the safety equipment list.

Under the bonnet are a range of TDI diesel engines, plus the availability of BlueMotion Technology versions which use a 1.6-litre TDI with stop/start technology and an energy recuperation device.

As a result, these models offer CO2 emissions of 129g/km and combined economy of 57mpg - beating the current BlueMotion Caddy's 49mpg average.

As well as the Caddy van, Volkswagen will offer a seven-seat Caddy Maxi MPV model, plus a five-seater Caddy Maxi Kombi.

Pricing will be announced next month, but expect the van to start at around £12,000.