Aussie families and adventurers, buckle up! If you’re looking for a spacious and reliable people mover that can handle anything from city commutes to epic road trips, the 2024 Volkswagen Caravelle deserves a serious look. Let’s dive into the details and see if this iconic van lives up to its reputation.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Spacious Interior: The Caravelle boasts cavernous space, accommodating up to nine passengers comfortably. Whether it’s a family road trip or a corporate shuttle, everyone gets their elbow room.
• Flexible Seating Configurations: The modular seating arrangement allows you to configure the interior to suit your needs. Fold, slide, or remove seats as required.
• Refined Ride: The Caravelle glides over bumps and potholes, providing a surprisingly smooth ride for a van.
• Premium Materials: High-quality materials adorn the cabin, elevating the overall ambiance.
• Advanced Infotainment: The touchscreen infotainment system keeps everyone entertained and connected.

Cons

• Price Tag: The Caravelle’s premium features come at a cost. It’s not the most budget-friendly option.
• Fuel Economy: Given its size, the fuel efficiency isn’t stellar. Expect around 10-12 liters per 100 kilometers.

How Much Does It Cost?

The 2024 Caravelle starts at a recommended retail price of $63,090 for the TDI340 Trendline model (before on-road costs). This gets you the base version with a 2.0L turbo diesel engine, eight-speed automatic transmission, and a long wheelbase for maximum passenger and cargo space. Higher trim levels offer additional features, and the price tag can climb closer to $70,000.

Features and Benefits

• Powerful Engine: The Caravelle packs a punch with its 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine, delivering ample torque for highway cruising and city maneuvering.
• Luxurious Interior: Leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and ergonomic seats create a refined atmosphere.
• Dual Sliding Doors: Easy access for passengers, especially in tight parking spaces.
• Safety Suite: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and multiple airbags ensure peace of mind.
• Generous Cargo Space: Even with passengers, there’s room for luggage or sports gear.

Safety

The Caravelle prioritizes safety:

• Euro NCAP Rating: It received a solid five-star rating, emphasizing its crashworthiness.
• Driver Assistance Systems: From blind-spot monitoring to emergency braking, the Caravelle keeps you safe on the road.

Running Costs: Diesel Power with Efficiency

The 2.0L turbo diesel engine in the Caravelle is a workhorse, offering a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. You can expect highway fuel economy figures around 7.8L/100km, which is decent for a vehicle of this size. However, diesel prices tend to be higher than petrol, so factor that into your running cost calculations.

Standing Out from the Crowd: How Does it Compare?

The main competitor for the Caravelle is the Mercedes-Benz Vito. The Vito offers a similar level of space, comfort, and features, but it comes at a premium price. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Hyundai Staria might be worth considering. It doesn’t have the brand cachet of the Volkswagen, but it offers a lot of van for your money.

Conclusion

A Spacious and Capable All-Rounder

So, is the 2024 Volkswagen Caravelle the right choice for you? If you need a versatile and comfortable people mover with excellent safety features, then the answer is a resounding yes. However, the price tag might be a barrier for some. If you’re on a tighter budget, there are other options available.

Rating: 8/10

The Caravelle is a fantastic choice for large families and those who need a spacious and reliable van. It offers a comfortable ride, excellent safety features, and a strong brand reputation. The only downsides are the price and the lack of cargo space when all seats are in use. But if these factors aren’t dealbreakers, the Caravelle could be your perfect road trip companion.