2020 Volkswagen Caddy MPV: prices, specs and release date

• New Volkswagen Caddy even more practical
• All models get touchscreen infotainment systems
• Two lengths available

The new Volkswagen Caddy is now available to order, with prices starting at £23,610 for the entry-level model and £27,420 for the higher-spec Life trim. You can specify the car as a standard five-seater or as a ‘Maxi’ seven-seater for £1,320 extra.

Standard Caddy models get air conditioning, cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel and a 6.5-inch touchscreen with DAB radio and Bluetooth. Life versions have a larger screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, storage cubbies under the front seats and a leather steering wheel. A digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch touchscreen with sat nav are optional on Life models.

The new Volkswagen Caddy rivals other vans-with-windows such as the Ford Tourneo Connect, Citroen Berlingo and Vauxhall Combo Life. Caddy panel van versions are also available, starting from £17,800 exc. VAT.

It’s still recognisably a Volkswagen Caddy but the new version gets a much more striking front end, which is similar to the Mk8 Volkswagen Golf. The rear end gets large LED clusters, either side of a nearly full-width tailgate. The main bodywork looks similar to before but the Caddy has a longer wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear wheels) and a 25mm lower roofline. Despite this, the load height has increased, and the longer Caddy Maxi van can carry two pallets; these can be loaded through the larger side door.

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Like the Volkswagen Golf hatchback, the interior of the new Caddy eschews buttons for touch-sensitive panels wherever possible. An e-SIM is fitted so the car can contact the emergency services in the event of a crash, and it also enables a range of online features.

Eventually, the range will also include a rugged-looking Pan Americana trim level with black plastic wheel arches and a sportier-looking Caddy Vision model. Full specs will be released closer to when the car goes on sale.

Volkswagen has piled in the driver assistance technology, which should be reassuring for families. Up to 19 driver aids are available, including travel assist (a combination of adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance) and trailer-towing assistance. All models get an electric handbrake for the first time.

You’ll be able to choose from two 2.0-litre diesel engines, with 101 or 120bhp, or a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 112bhp. All diesels will feature a ‘double-dosing’ AdBlue system, which increases the amount of emissions-reducing AdBlue shot into the exhaust. Performance and economy details haven’t been published yet but the current Volkswagen Caddy Life MPV manages 50mpg and 0-62mph in 12-13 seconds. There won’t be an electric version; VW fans who want a van or large MPV will have to wait for the Volkswagen ID. Buzz due in 2022.

Read our current Volkswagen Caddy Life review for more information.