But this latest model is a big deal for the brand. As the first Caddy based on the new MQB platform from VW – the core of the passenger car range – it has a lot in common with the latest generation of the Golf.

That makes it a far more modern workhorse than the more popular Amarok, whose cabin has been one of them for the past decade.

Inside there are optionally two 10-inch widescreen displays, capacitive touch controls and sophisticated driving aids that are rarely found in commercial vehicles.

As long as you are willing to pay for it.

Priced at $ 34,990 plus on-road costs (about $ 40,000 when you pull away) with a six-speed manual transmission (a seven-speed dual-clutch car costs $ 3000), the VW comes with an 8.25-inch -Infotainment system, automatic emergency braking, cruise control and a reversing camera as standard.

Customers pay $ 5,000 for Travel Assist, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic warning, plus $ 1,600 for the 10-inch navigational touchscreen, and $ 990 for adaptive LED -Lights to help you see around corners, $ 800 for heated seats that make chilly mornings much more bearable, and $ 1,100 for metallic paint.

If that sounds too expensive, consider putting a trash can in the driver’s door pocket for $ 25.

Then there is no longer an excuse when apprentices hide chip packages in the center console.

The Caddy is backed by a five-year unlimited mileage warranty and servicing for automatic models costs a whopping $ 2731 for five years.

The complex offer includes three body sizes as well as automatic and manual transmissions for gasoline or diesel engines and cabin layouts for two, five or seven occupants.

Cargo-conscious caddies can transport up to 754 kilograms in 3.7 cubic meters of storage space, which is accessible through larger openings than in the previous model.

The long wheelbase versions have huge sliding doors and enough space for two Euro pallets.

The cab has clever details like a roof shelf above the windshield and a flat shelf at the top of the dashboard to help you stay organized.

Two USB-C sockets connect 12-volt sockets on the dashboard and in the cargo area.

People who want to move people can choose a seven-seat Caddy Life model priced at around $ 55,000.

Removable chairs provide welcome flexibility if required.

The standard engine at the market launch is a 2.0-liter turbodiesel that has an output of 75 kW / 280 Nm in manual trim or 90 kW / 320 Nm in combination with the car.

Both drive the front wheels with fuel consumption of 4.9 l / 100 km, which is almost the 5.5 l / 100 km we’ve seen in the real world. A 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine with 84 kW and 220 Nm is on the way.

We tested the car in diesel trucks and seven-seater equipment and are impressed by the driving style that is similar to a car, which makes the Caddy a far more liveable proposition than huge double cabs. And you don’t have to worry about people pinching goods from the tray or pinching your back as you heave goods into the higher tub.

Compact dimensions make the Caddy easy to position in the city, and while its driving comfort cannot compete with the Golf, it is a lot better than the cars that roll up.

Easy steering, powerful brakes and a fast-shifting transmission make city deliveries child’s play.

Although diesel is no longer up-to-date in the passenger car class, the Caddy unit offers long-legged range and effortless penetration and at the same time meets the latest Euro emissions standards.

We would have liked a little more sophistication from the cabin, which is noisy at highway speeds. And as a people mover, the Caddy makes less sense, as more sophisticated and spacious vans are available for a similar price.

JUDGMENT 3/5

The Volkswagen Caddy offers modern technology and an easy driving experience for commercial operators, but family-friendliness is not a strength.

VOLKSWAGEN CADDY VITALS

Price: From approximately $ 43,600 car ride

E.Engine: 2.0 liter 4 cylinder turbo diesel, 90kW / 320Nm

W.Equipment / Service:5 year unlimited mileage, $ 2731 for 5 years

S.Safety:6 airbags, automatic emergency braking, driver fatigue monitoring

TShepherd: 4.9L / 100km

Charge: 754kg

S.par: Full size