Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Volkswagen Caravelle (T4, facelift 1996) Long 2.5 TDI (102 Hp)
Overall Rating
Volkswagen Caravelle:
Volkswagen Caravelle is the nameplate of a van based on the Volkswagen Transporter. For information about the Caravelle, refer to the regular Transporter articles:....(Read more on Wikipedia)
(T4, facelift 1996) Long Overview:
Volkswagen Caravelle ((T4, facelift 1996) Long). With 250 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.9 l/100km). With a weight of 1830 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 157 km/h. A large vehicle designed for transporting goods or groups of people. With seating for 6, it’s perfect for larger families.
2.5 TDI (102 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Offers strong low-end torque, making it capable for hauling and highway cruising. Adequate power for its size and purpose.
Fuel Economy
Excellent fuel efficiency for a large van of its era, especially on longer journeys, thanks to the robust TDI technology.
Community Verdict
This rating is based on comments found on Reddit, scanned using artificial intelligence, and may not accurately reflect reality.
3 / 5
Based on AI analysis of 4 discussions
Read What Owners Say
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional versatility and spacious interior for passengers or cargo.
- • Robust and reliable build quality, leading to long lifespan.
- • Wide range of engine options, including efficient TDI diesels.
- • Good ride comfort for a van, especially in Caravelle trim.
- • Strong aftermarket support and community.
Cons:
- • Older petrol engines can be very thirsty.
- • Some lower-powered diesel engines feel underpowered when fully loaded.
- • Lack of modern safety features (no Euro NCAP rating).
- • Rust can be an issue on older, neglected models.
- • Interior plastics can feel dated compared to modern vehicles.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation((T4) Long: 1993 - 1995).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Volkswagen |
| Model: | Caravelle |
| Generation: | (T4, facelift 1996) Long |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.5 TDI (102 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1996 |
| End of production: | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Van |
| Seats: | 6-9 |
| Doors: | 4-5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 102 Hp @ 3500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 41.5 Hp/l [134mm more] |
| Torque: | 250 Nm @ 1900-2300 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | ACV More details about the engine ACV |
| Engine displacement: | 2459 |
| Number of cylinders: | 5 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5.5 l |
| Coolant: | 9 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 81 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 95.5 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 19.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 9.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC): | 7.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC): | 9.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC): | 6.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 7.9 l/100 km |
| Maximum speed: | 157 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 17.9 kg/Hp, 55.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.3 kg/Nm, 136.6 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1830 |
| Max. weight: | 2730 |
| Max. roof load: | 100 kg |
| Max load: | 900 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 6300 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 2000 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 80 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 700 kg |
| Permitted towbar download: | 100 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Wading depth: | 350 mm |
| Length: | 5189 mm mm [134mm more] |
| Width: | 1840 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1940 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 3320 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Width including mirrors: | 2175 mm |
| Front track: | 1589 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1554 mm |
| Front overhang: | 968 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 901 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 180 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 12.9 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Trailing arm |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Volkswagen Caravelle!