What you need to know about the new Volkswagen Caddy
Volkswagen recently introduced their latest Caddy into the South African market and it looks to be packed with value as well as features. Now these vehicles are not as popular on local soil as they are in other markets. That being said, with consumers looking for more bang for their buck, the Caddy seems to be a noteworthy option. Here are five things that you need to know.
1. Strong foundations
The exterior has a new and striking sporty design. The new Caddy is built on the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform, the same as the Golf 8. The vehicle body has been redesigned to be more charismatic than ever before. Thanks to the MQB platform, new high-end technologies now find their way into the Caddy range.
2. Exterior design
Exterior features include new LED headlights and LED rear lights, painted body-coloured bumpers and black roof rails. Optional exterior features include a panoramic sunroof with a large glass area of 1.4m², a removable tow bar that can tow a maximum weight of 1 500kg as well as 16-inch Wien alloy wheels.
3. Interior highlights
interactive interfaces for the driver and front-seat passenger are formed by the new radio and infotainment systems of which the Composition Comfort radio is smartphone compatible (App-Connect). The modern instrument cluster now has the traditional rotary switch for lights. In addition, LED interior lights enhance the interior of the car. Another new feature is a roof vent for better climate control and faster stationary ventilation in the back.
4. Safety elements
The new Caddy range showcases some of Volkswagen’s most advanced driver assistance systems. With Cruise Control, the new Caddy offers a relaxing drive for longer journeys. Park Assist paired with the Rear-View Camera takes the hassle out of parking in tight spaces, while Trailer Manoeuvring will give drivers the confidence to guide a trailer easily.
5. Under the hood
Two engine options are available for the new Caddy. A four-cylinder 1.6-litre petrol engine develops 81kW and 152Nm of torque. It is coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.3 litres/ 100km. The four-cylinder 2.0TDI diesel engine also develops 81kW but offers 300Nm and is coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption is 5.5 litres/ 100km.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the new Volkswagen Caddy cost in South Africa?
The new Volkswagen Caddy starts from around R389,900 for the base model, with higher spec variants reaching up to R450,000 depending on the trim level and optional extras you choose.
Q: Is the Volkswagen Caddy worth buying in 2024?
The Caddy is absolutely worth considering if you need a practical van that doesn't drive like a brick, especially with its Golf 8 platform bringing proper car-like handling and modern tech to the commercial vehicle space.
Q: What engine options are available in the new Volkswagen Caddy?
The South African Caddy lineup typically features a 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine producing around 75kW, plus a more powerful 1.5-litre TSI option delivering approximately 96kW for those who need extra grunt.
Q: How much can the Volkswagen Caddy tow and carry?
The Caddy can tow up to 1,500kg with the optional removable towbar, while the cargo area offers around 3.2 cubic metres of load space, making it brilliant for both work and weekend adventures.
Q: What safety features does the new Caddy include?
Standard safety kit includes cruise control, park assist with rear-view camera, trailer manoeuvring assist, plus Volkswagen's latest suite of driver assistance systems that you'd normally find in their passenger cars.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the new Volkswagen Caddy is absolutely worth buying if you're after the best commercial vehicle under R400,000 in South Africa. Starting at R389,900, it's the most car-like van you can buy, thanks to that Golf 8 platform bringing proper handling, modern infotainment, and genuine comfort to the working vehicle segment. The LED lighting, smartphone connectivity, and advanced safety systems make it feel more like a premium hatchback than a utilitarian workhorse. Sure, it's pricier than basic bakkie alternatives, but if you spend serious time behind the wheel and need something that won't punish you on longer journeys, the Caddy delivers exceptional value for money in the premium compact commercial vehicle space.
