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Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles said it is introducing the fourth generation of the hugely popular Caddy in South Africa.
A showcase for Volkswagen’s innovation and passion for perfection, the Caddy has become the default choice for private buyers and fleet operators around the world.
The second best-selling model in Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ range after the Transporter, the Caddy combines space efficiency with sleek Volkswagen design and affordable running costs. Around 1.5 million units (23 400 sold in South Africa) of the third generation model were sold worldwide during its eleven years of production.
With a host of new state-of-the-art technologies as well as comfort, convenience and safety features, the new Caddy is set to continue the success of its predecessors.
Wearing a striking new look that incorporates the very latest Volkswagen design language, the new Caddy is available in commercial and passenger-carrying variants, offering customers great flexibility and configuration options to suit every need, taste and budget.
According to a statement obtained by AUTO REPORT AFRICA, the new Caddy will be available in four derivatives. Panel Van and Crew Bus will appeal to commercial customers. Trendline and Alltrack, which replaces Cross Caddy, are aimed at private customers.
The Panel Van, Crew Bus and Trendline are offered with the options of short or long (Maxi) wheelbases. In the Panel Van derivative, the Maxi version adds 469 mm to the short wheelbase’s already generous 1,781 mm load compartment and a load capacity of 4.2m3 (SWB 3.2m3).
The new Caddy is offered with an option of three engines – one 1.6 MPI petrol and two 2.0 TDIs. The 1.6-litre engine with 81kW is only available with Panel Van and Crew Bus derivatives. Whilst the 2.0 TDI engines with power output ranging from 81kW to 103kW are offered with Crew Bus, Trendline and Alltrack derivatives.
The 1.6-litre with 81kW and 2.0 TDI with 81kW are available in combination with a five-speed manual transmission. The 2.0 TDI with 103kW is only available with the 6-speed DSG transmission.
The fourth-generation Caddy also sets a new benchmark in the class for its array of safety and convenience systems. All models are equipped with Volkswagen’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking system that reduces the risk or severity of a secondary collision by controlling the speed and path of the vehicle after the first impact.
The new Caddy also features a host of new systems designed to make life easier on board. It is offered with the optional Park Distance Control with rear-view reversing camera to help reduce the risk of damage when manoeuvring and Driver Alert (Fatigue Detection) systems.
The Caddy’s new exterior builds on the strengths of its award-winning predecessor and introduces an even cleaner, crisper and more modern appearance. With particular attention paid to the front and rear, the fourth-generation Caddy delivers a sophisticated look that gives it powerful road presence. Among the many new styling features introduced on the new Caddy is a new unglazed tailgate that neatly integrates a roof spoiler and high-level third brake light. The roof spoiler is not available with the optional rear wing doors.
In the cabin, the Caddy introduces a completely new look with a redesigned dashboard, centre console and switchgear. Also new is the most advanced range of infotainment systems ever offered on the Caddy. The Crew Bus is equipped with Composition Audio radio with LCD screen as standard. Meanwhile, the Trendline is fitted with Composition Colour radio touchscreen system as standard. Customer are able to upgrade to an even higher specification Composition Media system with USB interface, AUX In jack, cellphone interface and 4-speakers.
The fourth-generation Caddy is built at Volkswagen’s production facility in Poznan, Poland. More than two million Caddy models have been built at this plant since the first model rolled off the line in 2003.
Design And Practicality
- New exterior and completely redesigned interior
- Range includes Panel Van, Crew Bus, Trendline and Alltrack derivatives
- Payload ratings from 741 kg to 815 kg for Panel Van
The Caddy has always matched form with function – combining traditional Volkswagen design qualities with new technology and trademark practicality. The fourth generation model builds on this rich heritage, adding a cleaner, sharper look, and a raft of new equipment that has been integrated to make life easier and safer for drivers and passengers. As with the previous-generation model, the new Caddy is available with a wide range of variants: Panel Van, Crew Bus, Trendline and Alltrack (name changed from Cross Caddy).
Caddy Panel Van
The new Caddy Panel Van is available with two wheelbase options: 2,682 mm for the standard short wheelbase (SWB) model and 3,006 mm for the long-wheelbase Maxi version. The SWB Caddy Panel Van has a load capacity of 3.2 m3, while the Maxi has 4.2 m3. Access to the load compartment is via two asymmetrically split rear doors and a sliding side door. The rear doors have a height aperture of 1,137 mm with the load compartment itself offering 1,244 mm of vertical space. To maximise ease of access, both rear doors open to 90 degrees with the door latches engaged and 180 degrees when disengaged.
The standard side sliding door provides an opening width of 0.7m on the left-hand side of the new Caddy, allowing for easy kerbside loading. For customers wanting the ultimate in load convenience, a second off-side sliding door is available as an option. As with previous models, the new Caddy takes attention to detail to a new level. For example, the sliding doors run on a roller integrated into the roof spars – a feature that allows owners to pack out the load bay without having to leave space for the mechanism as it slides open.
Easy loading is a feature that Caddy owners have come to expect over the years, and the fourth-generation model continues this tradition. The load sill is just 577 mm from the ground (Maxi 588 mm). Maximum load width is 1,556 mm. The cargo floor itself is completely level, can easily accommodate a standard (1200 x 800 mm) euro pallet through the rear doors, and is equipped with six load lashing rings as standard (eight for Maxi variants). To protect the outer skin of the bodywork, the Caddy is equipped with internal panelling up to the window line. The standard front bulkhead is contoured to provide the driver with the maximum possible seat travel, and features a solid lower section and a rigid, impact-resistant grille at the top.
Payload ratings for the new Caddy panel van range from 741 kg to 815 kg, with Gross Vehicle Weights from 2,047 kg to 2,350 kg.
Caddy Crew Bus
For commercial vehicle drivers who need to combine passenger and load carrying, the new Caddy Crew Bus allows owners to carry up to five passengers (including the driver) while still offering up to 1.6 m3 of load space. The Crew Bus features a rear seat (comprising a two seater bench and a single seat) that can be removed to generate a 4.1 m3 load area – almost identical in capacity to that of the Caddy Maxi Panel Van. An optional seven-seater package is available for customers who want the ultimate in passenger/load flexibility. This features an additional two-seater rear bench with a fold-down backrest.
In terms of design, the Crew Bus is fitted with rear side windows, panelled rear sides and rear wing doors as standard.
Caddy Trendline
Combining exceptional levels of space with the flexibility, comfort and equipment of an MPV, the new Caddy Trendline delivers on every level. The Caddy Trendline offers the best of both worlds for drivers who demand car-like quality and compact van-like value and load carrying ability.
Key to the Caddy Trendline’s flexibility is its seating layout. Available in standard short wheel base and long wheelbase Maxi forms, both variants are equipped with five seats as standard, with the option of a third row that raises the seating capacity to seven (including the driver).
The two rear rows of seats can be folded, double folded or removed to leave a loading space of up to 3,030 litres (3.03 m3). The Caddy Maxi Trendline, with its extra 470 mm length, offers an additional 340 litres, bringing the total loading area up to 3,880 litres (3.37 m3).
Designed as a passenger car, the Caddy Maxi Trendline incorporates a host of additional features and wider range of standard and optional equipment. It is also differentiated in the cabin by a new ‘Trendline’ dashboard that features driver, passenger and curtain airbags as standard.
Caddy Alltrack
The Alltrack differentiates itself from the other Caddy derivatives with its rugged yet stylish looks. Its black trim panels on the wheel arches, black side sills and the lower edges of the bumpers give it a robust appearance. They contrast the parts painted in the body colour, such as the bumpers, protective side strips and door handles. The black underbody protection is set off by additional silver accents.
Other visual highlights of the Caddy Alltrack include features like the three chrome fins in a radiator grille, the silver exterior mirror housings, dark coloured taillights, Alltrack logos on the front grille and at the rear and silver roof rails.
Inside the Alltrack is fitted with an exclusive 7Summits fabric seat trim covers with folding tables on the front seatbacks and manual lumbar support for driver and passenger seats. It also has leather finishes on the multi-function steering, handbrake lever, gear lever boot. Other visual interior features are chrome package (rotary light switch, mirror adjustment / power window switches, and handbrake lever button), aluminium-look pedals, Alltrack floor mats with Muscat-colour stitching and Carbon Square Dark cockpit decor.
The Caddy Alltrack comes standard with convenience and comfort features such as Hill Hold function, cruise control, Light and Sight package (with automatically dimming rear-view mirror, daytime running lights with automatic switching, ‘coming home’ and ‘leaving home’ functions, and intermittent wiper function with rain sensor), a and the Composition ‘Media’ radio with 5-inch touchscreen, cellphone interface, USB and AUX-IN ports.
Sophisticated new look
Clarity, precision and balance have always marked the Caddy out from the crowd. The fourth-generation model takes Volkswagen’s passion for detail and form to a new level with a bold new design that delivers both inside and out.
The front end has a more defined look with greater visual separation of surfaces. The headlamps, radiator grille and bumper have been redesigned to form a distinctive horizontal band across the front of the vehicle, while the rising V shape that stretches from the grille edges to the base of the window gives the front of the Caddy a more striking appearance. Caddy Trendline features body-coloured bumpers, chrome detailing on the grille and smaller body-coloured door mirrors.
The new design extends to the sides where new accent lines provide a visual link between the nose and the passenger area. As before, the exterior sides of the Panel Van load cube feature a smooth, unbroken surface that provides the perfect canvas for signwriting and decals.
At the rear, the new Caddy Panel Van comes with the option of an unglazed tailgate for the first time. Neatly integrating a roof spoiler and high-level brake light, the new tailgate features the same crisp lines and defined surfacing as the rest of the vehicle. The glazed tailgate offered on Trendline derivative has also been redesigned and features a smooth edge-to-edge glass panel that creates a sharper, neater look. Also new are the rear multi-chamber light clusters that have a more angular appearance than the units they replace.
Personalisation has become an important element of the compact MPV over recent years, and Volkswagen continues to lead the way here with a new range of alloy wheels and exterior paint colours. The new Caddy is offered with optional ‘Caloundra’ 15-inch, ‘Bendigo and Fortaleza’ 16-inch wheels, while the colour palette extends to 13 different shades, including 9 metallic finishes, six of which are new for this generation.
Inside, the new Caddy takes comfort, convenience and refinement to a new level. The new dashboard layout mirrors the themes introduced on the exterior with distinctive horizontal bands and an emphasis on clean, uncluttered lines. Material quality has been significantly enhanced throughout, while the introduction of improved noise suppression means that Caddy drivers will experience the most car-like experience to date.
The centre console houses the ventilation controls along with the new range of infotainment systems. Further reinforcing the link with Volkswagen’s passenger car range is the availability of a new three-spoke multi-function steering wheel on the Trendline as an option. Complete with leather trim and a sporty flat bottom design, this provides additional convenience for the driver and gives the interior an even more sophisticated look.
Cabin storage remains a key Caddy strength with numerous bins, cubbies and lockable compartments integrated as standard. The door panels can hold bottles of up to 1.5-litres in capacity, while the roof shelf can accommodate A4 folders – keeping important documents safe and secure on the move while also easily accessible.
The new Caddy’s driving position offers exceptional levels of comfort. The steering column adjusts for reach (+30/-20 millimetres) and height (+/-20 millimetres) while Trendline and Alltrack are equipped with height adjustable driver and passenger seats as standard.
Technology On Board
- New driver assistance systems deliver safer, more comfortable drive
- Automatic Post-Collision Braking system fitted to all models in the new range
- New infotainment systems with the new-generation audio systems
Driver assistance systems
The new Caddy is equipped with a number of new, sector-first safety systems – all of which are activated in critical situations as a preventative measure. These are offered alongside a new range of innovative driver assistance systems designed to provide convenience and even greater levels of occupant protection.
Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System automatically brakes the Caddy when it is involved in an accident in order to reduce the risk or severity of a secondary collision. This innovative system is fitted across the new Caddy range.
Triggering of the system is based on detection of a primary collision by the airbag sensors. Vehicle braking is limited by the ESC control unit to a maximum deceleration rate of 0.6g. This ensures that the driver can take over handling of the car even in case of automatic braking.
The driver can ‘override’ the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System at any time; for example, if the system recognises that the driver is accelerating, it is disabled. The system is also deactivated if the driver initiates hard braking at an even higher rate of deceleration. Essentially, the system applies the brakes until a vehicle speed of 10km/h is reached, so this residual vehicle speed can be used to steer to a safe location after the braking process.
Driver Alert system
This system monitors and registers deviation from normal steering patterns and uses visual and acoustic warnings to recommend that the driver takes a break. Standard on Trendline, Alltrack, Panel Van Maxi DSG and Crew Bus Maxi DSG, the system monitors driving behaviour at speeds above 65 km/h.
Optical Parking System (OPS)
A new 360 degree optical parking system (OPS) also makes manoeuvring easier and safer. The OPS provides a graphic representation of the vehicle from above on the colour display of the infotainment system. By means of yellow and red signals the driver can then easily see whether the Caddy has a sufficient gap from any obstacles in front or behind it. The system gives an audible warning at the same time.
Rear-view camera
This uses a wide-angle camera located in the rear number plate surround to display a clear view of the area behind the vehicle on the infotainment screen. It is available as an option together with Park Distance Control. The rear view camera can only be ordered with the normal tail gate not the rear wing doors.
Fog lights with integrated cornering lights
Available as an option in Panel Van and Crew Bus, these help to illuminate curves and bends in the road ahead where the vehicle is turning.
All-new infotainment systems
The new Caddy benefits from a substantial upgrade in infotainment systems with the new-generation audio systems available for the first time. The Trendline derivative is equipped with Composition Colour touchscreen infotainment as standard with the option to upgrade to larger system, Composition Media.
The Composition Colour radio system features a 5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connection for hands-free calling. It is also equipped with an AUX-in connection, SD card slot and an MP3-compatible CD player.
For owners wanting more features, the Composition Media system offers a larger 6.5-inch display and is coupled with a proximity sensor that is integrated across the area beneath the display. As a hand approaches the screen, functions appear on the screen and are readily available. When functional inputs are not required, the full screen can be seen, increasing ease of visibility. The display also responds to wiping and zooming gestures, as used in smartphones and tablets. The Composition Media unit also includes a USB input, the port for which is located in a separate compartment on the centre console. Composition Media system is standard in Alltrack.
Engines And Transmissions
- One petrol and two diesel engines
- Power outputs range from 81kW to 103kW
- DSG transmission standard with 103kW engine
The fourth-generation Caddy is available with the choice of three engines – 1.6-litre MPI delivering 81kW and two 2.0 TDI engines with power outputs of 81kW and 103kW. The engines with 81kW power outputs are paired with 5-speed manual transmission and 103kW is mated to 6-speed DSG transmission.
1.6-litre with 81kW
The 1.6-litre is the only petrol engine in the range and is available with Panel Van and Crew Bus derivatives. Its power output has been increased by 6kW to 81kW (75kW in the previous model). This four-cylinder normally aspirated engine delivers its maximum torque of 155 Nm from 3,800 rpm up to 4,000 rpm.
It reaches a top speed of 172km/h and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.5 seconds. It has a claimed combined fuel consumption of 7.3 litres per 100km.
2.0 TDI with 81kW
The 2.0 TDI with 81kW has been retained from the previous model. The common-rail direct injection, turbocharged diesel engine is available across the range. It delivers exceptional flexibility with 250 Nm of torque available from just 1,500 rpm. Despite its impressive performance, this engine is also highly fuel efficient with a combined fuel consumption figure of 5.7 l/100km (5.8 l/100km for Maxi).
2.0 TDI with 103kW
The 2.0 TDI with 103kW is only offered with 6-speed DSG transmission. It is also available across the model range. With a torque output of 320 Nm, this engine delivers strong flexibility from low engine speeds. It can return up to 6.3 l/100km of fuel on the combined cycle.
Standard And Optional Features
- Climatic air conditioning, alloy wheels and heated windscreen on Trendline
- Automatic Post-Collision Braking System fitted as standard
- Vast range of options allow owners to personalise their vehicles
The fourth generation Caddy is generously equipped across the range with an impressive array of standard safety and convenience features.
Standard safety features in the Panel Van and Crew Bus include driver and front passenger airbags, ABS, ESP, Automatic Post-Collision Braking system, a seatbelt reminder, Fatigue Detection (only standard in Maxi with DSG) and Hill Hold Control (only standard in Maxi with DSG)
Moving up the range, Trendline derivatives add 16-inch ‘Bendigo’ alloy wheels, body-coloured bumpers, handles and wing mirrors, heated rear window, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, climatic air conditioning system, electric windows, leather steering wheel, height adjustable front seats, multi-function display, roof rails in black, under-seat storage, sun visors with vanity mirrors, front fog lights with static cornering light and daytime running lights.
Caddy Alltrack enjoys exceptionally high levels of standard equipment with an even greater emphasis on comfort and refinement.
Alltrack is fitted with 17-inch ‘Quito’ alloy wheels, height adjustable front seat, ‘7 Summit’ cloth upholstery, leather multifunction steering wheel, rain sensors, Composition Media radio with proximity sensor touchscreen, silver exterior mirrors housings, automatic headllamps activation with separate daytime running lights and coming/leaving home function, dark-coloured tail lights, driver and front passenger manual lumbar support, cruise control and silver roof rails.
The New Caddy has an array of optional convenience features for customers that want to individualise their cars.
Optional features offered on Panel Van and Crew Bus include 15 and 16-inch alloy wheels, park distance control (rear), Composition Audi radio with LCD screen (Panel Van only), Composition Colour and Media radio systems, climatic air conditioning system, towbar, electric windows and exterior mirrors, 7-seater package (Crew Bus only), comfort package (cruise control, front foglights and multi-function display), bi-xenon headlights as well as light and sight package (coming/leaving home, light and rain sensor with auto dimming rear view mirror).
Trendline and Alltrack derivatives can be customised with optional features such as16-inch ‘Fortaleza’ alloy wheels (Trendline only), Park Distance Control (front and rear) with rear view camera, Bi-xenon headlights with separate LED daytime running lights and blacked out tail lights and rear wing doors.
Retail Prices (VAT Included & emissions tax on passenger models)
Panel Van
Caddy Panel Van 1.6i 81kW R234 000
Caddy Panel Van 2.0 TDI 81kW R265 700
Caddy Maxi Panel Van 2.0 TDI 81kW R289 400
Caddy Maxi Panel Van Sport 2.0 TDI 81kW R312 400
Caddy Maxi Panel Van 2.0 TDI 103kW DSG R317 900
Crew Bus
Caddy Crew Bus 1.6i 81kW R226 800
Caddy Crew Bus 2.0 TDI 81kW R270 500
Caddy Maxi Crew Bus 2.0 TDI 81kW R302 600
Caddy Maxi Crew Bus 2.0 TDI 103kW DSG R331 100
Trendline
Caddy Trendline 2.0 TDI 81kW R351 200
Caddy Maxi Trendline 2.0 TDI 81kW R369 900
Caddy Maxi Trendline 2.0 TDI 103kW DSG R399 300
Alltrack
Caddy Alltrack 2.0 TDI 81kW R365 400
Caddy Alltrack 2.0 TDI 103kW DSG R395 000
Service and Warranty
The new Caddy Panel Van and Crew Bus (except 1.6 with 81kW – service plan optional) come standard with a 2 year/unlimited kilometres warranty and a 3-year/60 000km Automotion Service Plan.
The new Caddy Trendline (including Alltrack) comes standard with 3 year/120 000 kilometre manufacturer warranty and a 3-year/60 000km Automotion Service Plan.
All models have a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty and 15 000 km service intervals.
