Volkswagen Transporter (T5) Panel Van 2.5 TDI (174 Hp) L1H1


Overall Rating

7.9 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 4.2 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 400 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1975 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 12.2 s). The top speed reaches 188 km/h. A large vehicle designed for transporting goods or groups of people. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.

2.5 TDI (174 Hp) L1H1 Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Outstanding power and torque for a van, ensuring effortless acceleration even with maximum loads in a compact form.

Fuel Economy

Impressive fuel economy given its performance, ideal for demanding commercial applications where power is key.

Best Use Case: High-performance utility, heavy towing, rapid long-distance transport in standard body size.

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):2.5 TDI (174 Hp) L1H1
Start of production:2003
End of production:2006
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Van
Seats:2-3
Doors:4-5
Engine:
Power:174 Hp @ 3500 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:70.7 Hp/l [183mm more]
Torque:400 Nm @ 2000-2300 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:EA153 / AXE More details about the engine EA153 / AXE
Engine displacement:2460
Number of cylinders:5
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:7.4 l
Coolant:7.1 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:81 mm
Piston Stroke:95.5 mm
Compression ratio:18.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:6.3 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 3
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:12.2 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:12.2 sec
Maximum speed:188 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:10.8 kg/Hp, 92.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.7 kg/Nm, 213.3 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:11.6 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1875-2075
Max. weight:2800-3000
Max. roof load:100 kg
Max load:925
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:5800 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):2500 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:
Ramp-over (brakeover) angle:14°
Wading depth:300 mm
Length:4890 mm [183mm more]
Width:1904 mm [64mm more]
Height:1959 mm [19mm more]
Wheelbase:3000 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):11.9 m [above average]
Approach angle:22°
Departure angle:16°
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs, 308x29.5 mm [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesVentilated discs, 294x22 mm [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size215/65 R16
Wheel rims size6.5J x 16
Front suspensionIndependent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear suspensionIndependent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm

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