The new Volkswagen Caravelle eHybrid has entered the South African market with a starting price of R1 794 000, bringing plug-in hybrid technology to the popular people mover segment.
At the core of the vehicle lies a 1,5-litre TSI evo2 turbo-charged petrol engine producing 130 kW and 250 Nm of torque, paired with an electric motor integrated into the six-speed DSG transmission. The combined system output delivers 180 kW and 350 Nm, making this the most powerful production Caravelle ever offered in South Africa.
The powertrain enables all-electric driving for up to 95 kilometres, drawing from a 19,7 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery comprising 96 prismatic cells. When combined with the petrol engine, the total driving range extends to approximately 700 kilometres, allowing for extended travel between urban centres.
A range of Volkswagen pre-owned Caravelle models can be found right here
Charging options include a 7,4 kW AC Wallbox home charger provided with the vehicle, delivering a full charge in five and a half hours. The system supports 11 kW AC charging for residential and destination installations, while 40 kW DC fast charging can replenish the battery from 10% to 80% in roughly 26 minutes under optimal conditions.
The Caravelle eHybrid features 4MOTION all-wheel drive with an electrically driven rear axle, eliminating the need for a mechanical propshaft. This configuration allows torque distribution to be managed independently and with greater precision, with up to 100% of drive force directed to either axle as conditions require. Permanent all-wheel drive engages when the driver selects sport mode or adjusts the ESC setting, remaining active up to 130 km/h.
Standard specification includes three-zone Air Care Climatronic climate control with rear passenger controls, a Harman Kardon premium sound system with 13 speakers delivering 840 watts, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles, and 30-colour ambient lighting.
Safety and driver assistance systems comprise Adaptive Cruise Control, IQ.LIGHT LED Matrix headlamps with Dynamic Light Assist, rear-view camera, Park Assist with front and rear Park Distance Control, Side Assist with Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Traffic Alert and Exit Warning.
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Convenience features include electrically operated sliding doors on both sides with Easy Open and Easy Close functionality, a power-operated tailgate, and keyless entry and start. Dark-tinted rear privacy glass and 17-inch Dundrod alloy wheels complete the package.
The Caravelle eHybrid is offered with a three-year or 120 000 km manufacturer warranty, a five-year or 100 000 km Easy Drive maintenance plan, and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. The service interval is set at 15 000 km, with the battery carrying a two-year unlimited warranty or eight-year or 160 000 km coverage.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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