New VW Caddy Black Edition van review
High-spec VW Caddy Black Edition van loads up on luxury kit
The new VW Caddy Black Edition is pricey for a van, but business users (who can claim back the VAT) wanting something a little flashier may find it an attractive proposition. After all, it’s good looking, comfortable, economical and easy to drive. It’s also enormously practical, with one of the biggest load areas in its class.
Just because you drive a van doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy car owners’ creature comforts. That’s the thinking behind the VW Caddy Black Edition – the most luxurious commercial vehicle Volkswagen has ever made. Based on the top-spec Highline model, it adds £2,150 worth of kit for just £800 extra.
Additions include Deep Black pearlescent paint, 17-inch alloys, a multifunction steering wheel, leather and Alcantara seats and silver roof rails – on top of the air-con, parking sensors, Bluetooth and body-coloured bumpers you already get on a Highline. Space in the back remains at 3,200 litres, and a full-height, solid bulkhead separates the passengers from the cargo.
Only available in short-wheelbase panel van spec and with a 101bhp 1.6-litre TDI engine, the Black Edition doesn’t quite have the performance to back up its sporty looks, but it’s still pleasant to drive. Refinement could be better from the diesel engine – something that’s improved in newer, MQB-based cars like the VW Golf – but there’s enough shove to happily haul you and your cargo.
With no seats in the back and tall sides, there’s a fair bit of roll in bends, but it’s an acceptable compromise given that even fitted with 27mm-lower Dynamic Suspension, the Black Edition rides well over surface imperfections.
