Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Volkswagen Transporter (T5) Panel Van 1.9 TDI (86 Hp) L2H1
Overall Rating
Volkswagen Transporter:
The Volkswagen Transporter, based on the Volkswagen Group's T platform, now in its seventh generation, refers to a series of vans produced for over 70 years and marketed worldwide.
The T series is now considered an official Volkswagen Group automotive platform. and generations are sequentially named T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6 and T7. Pre-dating the T platform designations, the first three generations were named Type 2, indicating their relative position to the Type 1, or Beetle. As part of the T platform, the first three generations are retroactively named T1, T2 and T3....(Read more on Wikipedia)
(T5) Panel Van Overview:
Volkswagen Transporter ((T5) Panel Van). With 200 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1931 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 23.6 s). The top speed reaches 146 km/h. A large vehicle designed for transporting goods or groups of people. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.
1.9 TDI (86 Hp) L2H1 Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Adequate for light loads and city driving, but noticeably slow on highways, prioritizing economy over speed with increased length.
Fuel Economy
Excellent fuel economy for a van, ideal for cost-conscious operators and short-distance tasks.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Highly versatile engine lineup catering to diverse needs
- • Excellent cargo capacity and multiple body configurations
- • Optional 4MOTION provides superior traction for challenging conditions
- • Generally comfortable for a commercial vehicle
- • Strong resale value and robust build quality
Cons:
- • Entry-level engines can feel underpowered, especially when loaded
- • Some known reliability issues with specific 2.5 TDI components (e.g., oil pump)
- • Petrol engines are significantly thirstier than diesel counterparts
- • Older safety technology compared to modern vans
- • Can be expensive to maintain if not properly serviced
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation((T4, facelift 1996) Panel Van: 1998 - 2003).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Volkswagen |
| Model: | Transporter |
| Generation: | (T5) Panel Van |
| Modification (Engine): | 1.9 TDI (86 Hp) L2H1 |
| Start of production: | 2003 |
| End of production: | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Van |
| Seats: | 2-3 |
| Doors: | 4-5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 86 Hp @ 3500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 45.4 Hp/l [183mm more] |
| Torque: | 200 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | EA188 / AXC More details about the engine EA188 / AXC |
| Engine displacement: | 1896 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Pump-nozzle (Unit Injector) |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5.8 l |
| Coolant: | 7.1 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 79.5 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 95.5 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 18:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.1 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 3 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 23.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 23.6 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 146 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 21.3 kg/Hp, 47 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 9.2 kg/Nm, 109.3 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 22.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1830-2033 |
| Max. weight: | 2800-3000 |
| Max. roof load: | 100 kg |
| Max load: | 967-970 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 6700 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 2200 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 80 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 750 kg |
| Permitted towbar download: | 100 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%): | 2500 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Wading depth: | 300 mm |
| Length: | 5290 mm [183mm more] |
| Width: | 1904 mm [64mm more] |
| Height: | 1959 mm [471mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 3400 mm [80mm more] |
| Width including mirrors: | 2242 mm |
| Front track: | 1628 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1628 mm |
| Front overhang: | 894 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 996 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 165 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 13.2 m [above average] |
| Approach angle: | 22° |
| Departure angle: | 16° |
| 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 | Ventilated discs, 308x29.5 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 294x22 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 215/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm |
Describe your experience with the Volkswagen Transporter using only emojis!