A Caddy's Tale: 40-year passage from humble bakkie to versatile all-rounder
New Caddy 5
According to Volkswagen, the new Caddy 5, unveiled in February, features a significant upgrade in technology, connectivity, and safety. It is built on an all-new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform in Caddy, Cargo, and Maxi form, with load space that ranges from 3.3m3 to 4.0m3.
The wholly redesigned body now has more dynamic-looking proportions and is more aerodynamic – with the Cd value reduced from 0.33 to 0.30. New features include optional electric sliding doors and tailgate, a panoramic sunroof, up to 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights and LED rear lights.
The new Caddy will again be available as the Cargo (panel van with enclosed superstructure), an estate (with passenger compartment windows), and in various passenger car variants (MPVs). The base passenger model will, in the future, be the 'Caddy,' followed by 'Life' specification and premium 'Style' line.
The extended version – the Caddy Maxi – now provides room for up to two Euro pallets, and inside the indicator and control elements have been completely redesigned with a new Digital Cockpit (optionally fully digital instruments) and radio and infotainment systems (between 6.5 and 10 inches in size).
The fusion of Digital Cockpit and top 10-inch navigation system creates a new 'Innovision Cockpit' with online connectivity unit and infotainment systems with integrated eSIM and digital buttons for light, sight, audio, and menu functions.
The Caddy's new four-cylinder TDI engines fulfill the 2021 Euro 6 emissions standards and are all fitted with particulate filters. The engines, with power outputs between 55kW and 90kW, also have a new twin dosing system, significantly reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emission levels.
A turbo-petrol engine (TSI) delivering 84kW and a supercharged natural gas engine (TGI) will also be available. European sales are expected to begin later this year, and its South African introduction is slated for 2021.
Local specifications will only be released closer to that time.
From humble beginnings as an unassuming half-ton workhorse the Caddy has become one of the most versatile models within the VW Commercial Vehicles range.
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