Model tested: Volkswagen Caravelle 1.9 TDI PD Startline 102 5dr
Price: £23,955
Date tested: August 2009
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Auto Trader Ten Point Test rating: 73%
The Caravelle is the nearest you'll get to the iconic air-cooled bus which debuted in the 1950s. But unlike that model, the Caravelle comes with space and reliability as standard. And it should look familiar; the Caravelle, California camper van and Transporter van all share the same basic architecture.

1. Looks
All models come with colour-coded body trims and most models get alloys too. You can also personalise your Caravelle with a variety of 'lifestyle' bits, including a full-sized bike rack.
6/10

2. Looks inside
Perhaps more than anywhere else, the cabin reveals the Caravelle's commercial vehicle roots. The dash is vast and covered in hard plastics. The controls are well laid out, the switchgear feels solid and the seats are comfortable.
6/10

3. Practicality
Even with all seven seats in place, the boot is still huge. In the cabin, seat rows two and three slide and storage space is plentiful. Some may find the Caravelle unwieldy, but it's remarkably easy to drive.
10/10

4. Ride and Handling
At low to moderate speeds, on smooth roads the Caravelle is quiet and comfortable. As the speed increases, so does the noise and the ride quality deteriorates. The steering is surprisingly involving; it's all more fun than you'd expect.
7/10

5. Performance
There are four engines available; we tested the 105bhp 1.9TDi. It's not the most refined motor, but seems more eager than its 18.9 second 0-62mph time would suggest.
7/10

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6. Running Costs
The Caravelle isn't cheap, but the 1.9TDi returns an average of 37.2mpg, and of all the models in the Caravelle range, it's the only one to have sub-200g/km CO2 emissions.
7/10

7. Reliability
Commercial vehicles stand and fall by their reputation for not breaking down, and the van-based Caravelle follows this. The engines are proven and the interiors are built to last. Should be few problems.
9/10

8. Safety
Every Caravelle features ABS and traction control, driver, passenger and side airbags, brakeforce distribution and full seat belts for all. There's no EuroNCAP crash test ratings though.
7/10

9. Equipment
All models have side window blinds, three 12-volt sockets, electric windows plus electric and heated mirrors, trip computer and remote central locking. Poshers models get air-con, CD player, front curtain airbags, leather/leatherette seat, cruise control and electrically-operated side door.
7/10

10. X-Factor
It's the big people carrier that can not only put a smile on the driver's face, but features the badge that started it all.
7/10