VW South Africa has informed us that three variants are available, namely: the Panel Van, Crew Bus and Trendline. The Alltrack variant, which replaces the Cross Caddy, will be available early in 2016. The Panel Van and Crew Bus will appeal to commercial customers and the Trendline is the compact people-mover that is aimed at private customers.

As for the design enhancements, Volkswagen designers have redesigned the front and the rear, which has given the new model an unmistakable character, without making it any less recognisable. While preserving all of its functional virtues, the high-quality urban delivery van has gained noticeably in presence, exclusivity and dynamism.

In keeping with the expressive exterior, the vehicle's interior also features accentuated lines and shapes. A striking horizontal band with integrated air vents and a new generation of infotainment equipment underline the new Caddy's modern look.

Exclusively offered to coincide with the launch of the new Caddy, a special edition Panel Van Sport derivative will be available. It is based on the Caddy Panel Van and features a diverse range of extras. These include painted bumpers, electric windows and side mirrors, 16-inch Fortaleza alloy wheels, composition audio radio with LCD Screen, climatic manual air-conditioning system and the Comfort package, which includes cruise control, front fog lights and multi-function display.

With regards to safety, the Caddy range makes use of some of the latest technologies available. The Panel Van and Crew Bus are offered with a raft of safety features as standard. These include ABS, ESP, Multi-Collision Braking System, driver and front passenger airbags, Hill Hold (only available with 103kW) and Fatigue Detection (standard in 103kW and optional in other derivatives).

Customers also have the choice of optional features such as Park Distance Control, multi-function steering, seven-seater package, bi-Xenon headlights, as well as the light and sight package.

As for engines, well, Volkswagen has just carried them over from the previous generation. The 1.6-litre petrol engine, which is only available with the Panel Van and Crew Bus, has been upgraded though. It now delivers 81kW instead of 75kW. The two diesel engines are still the 2.0-litre TDI with a power output of 81kW and the other with 103kW. They are available with all the variants. The 1.6-litre petrol and 2.0-litre TDI with 81kW are both available with a five-speed manual transmission. Meanwhile, the 2.0-litre TDI with 103kW is only offered with a six-speed DSG transmission.

All variants - expect the Alltrack - are available from a Volkswagen dealership.

Retail Prices (VAT Included and emissions tax on passenger models)

Service and Warranty

The new Caddy Panel Van and Crew Bus come standard with a two-year/unlimited kilometres warranty and a three-year/60 000km Automotion Service Plan.

The new Caddy Trendline (including Alltrack) comes standard with a three-year/120 000 kilometre manufacturer warranty and a three-year/60 000km Automotion Service Plan.

All models have a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty and 15 000km service intervals.

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