More Freedom With the T6 VW Campervan
When the T6 first hit the road for UK sales in 2015 its quality updates from previous incarnations were met with an overwhelmingly positive reception. The model retained its universal recognisability while building on the camper van’s interior comfort and safety features, particularly with the installation of the ‘Front Assist’ area monitoring system which recognises critical distances to the vehicle in front and supports the van in shortening the stopping distance.
Other practical additions include driver assist tools and a full range of smart camping digital features, with a versatile design and highly flexible seating for both travel and everyday life. Thanks to these additions this iteration of the VW campervan comes with a host of benefits.
Ideal for Everyday Life
Practicality for Your Next Adventure
Along with its younger sibling the T6.1, the T6 is considered the best base model as a campervan and for potential campervan conversions. A great deal of this can be attributed to its practical features. As well as the usual campervan features such as a sliding door, kitchenette, and flexible seating, the model’s interior concept provides decent space for long objects, equipment, or luggage, and can be utilised as a work van and family vehicle as well as a campervan, making it highly versatile.
In addition, because it contains more space than other models and is adaptable, it is a highly popular choice for campervan conversions.
A Driver Experience to Remember
Due to its spacious yet compact size, this VW campervan model is an easy drive, with light yet accurate steering which feels akin to an ordinary car. This makes manoevering around bustling urban areas straightforward, while the suspension provides a fine balance between comfort and and body control which is ideal for prolonged travel As a front-wheel drive, traction isn’t dependent on how full or empty your tank is, and its smooth four-cylinder engine means you can maintain a motorway cruise and a hands-free phone call with no problems.
A Long-Term Balm For Your Finances
Compared to other convertible campervans, with the T6 there should be no concerns about getting your money’s worth. With its 2.0 litre TDI diesel engines, this VW camper is highly fuel efficient, with engines and is available in numerous power outputs.
With its reputation for reliability, the campervan is known for its lower long-term maintenance costs, reduced downtime, and is less likely to require unexpected repairs, meaning you can embark on your next adventure with total peace of mind.
How Does it Compare to the T5?
The T6 campervan is considered an update of the T5, which was officially released in the 2000’s. As VW campervan conversions the two models are technically similar so it can be difficult to choose between them. However, there are some practical features that set them apart.
An Environmentally Friendly Purchase
While the T5 is widely touted as being the more affordable of the two vans, the T6 ranks higher in terms of fuel efficiency with its Euro 6 diesel engine which is also considered far better for the environment. This makes the T6 more cost-effective to run regarding fuel consumption, and proud owners won’t have to pay the emission charges out on the road which the T5 will require.
Extra Safety Features
T6 is generally considered the safer drive of the two models for both drivers and passengers with its automatic post-collision braking and other features such as its radar-based collision warning system, which works with City Emergency Braking at speeds of up to 19mph. This feature grants the model the ability to actively brake to prevent low-speed accidents, keeping both driver and passengers protected.
Boosted Comfort and Quality
The improved sound insulation of the T6 compared with the T5, whose ability to block road and wind noise is limited, results in a quieter cabin and a better driving experience. Suspension in the T6 is also more refined for improved shock absorption and vibration dampening, guaranteeing a smoother ride to your next destination.
How Does It Compare With the T6.1?
The T6.1 brings updated tech, connectivity, ergonomic upgrades, and other new interior concepts and functions that are essential to a campervan lifestyle and make it the perfect base for a campervan conversion.
A Design Reboot
Sleek, polished, refreshed; these are just some of the ways to describe the T6.1 model, which comes with a more modern exterior, a refreshed front grille, and revised bumper to give it a cleaner, more contemporary appearance when weighed against the T6.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Climb into the T6.1 and you’ll find an upgraded interior which is upgraded to a modern infotainment system with larger touchscreens, and all USB ports upgraded to USB-C. The eSIM is now a standard feature with Composition Colour and higher trims, with optional on base Composition Audio systems. They power a variety of services including eCall (an automatic emergency call that will be made in the event of a crash); and breakdown call, vehicle health reports, and remote capabilities via We Connect or We Connect plus.
Steering and Digital Upgrades
The latest model swaps out the hydraulic steering of the T6 with electromechanical power steering, which enables the precise electronic control essential for advanced driver-assist features such as Crosswind Assist and Park Assist. Combined together these systems help to make driving feel safer and more relaxed, which is especially handy if you’re handling the breezy California coast, the tight spots on British country roads, or are towing another vehicles.
Enhanced Interior Ergonomics for Comfortable Living
One of the biggest reasons for the success of the T6.1 VW transporter is its optimised space utilisation. Denby’s easy glide rail system facilitates this; its slide-mounted seating system enables the bench to move forward, creating a much larger rear storage area. This is especially useful in camper conversions, able to extend by 6ft 4in and offering a 3-seat setup while freeing up storage in the back.
Unlike the Volkswagen T6 transporter, however, the footrest has been removed. While this frees up extra leg space, for some potential users this could be seen as a downgrade.
The T6 in a Nutshell
In summary, the T6 builds on the undoubted success of the T5 with a rejuvenated front end and a more modern interior space. The T6.1 develops this further a redesigned dashboard and enhanced personalisation options, though its storage is not quite as expansive. With enhanced safety features such as the addition of automatic braking systems, the T6 possesses enhanced driver alertness capabilities which were later expanded upon in the T6.1, which was recognised for its safety excellence with a Euro NCAP Gold Award. Depending on your circumstances and camper requirements, each model is a must-have for your next getaway.
Our Full Range of Campervan Conversions
At Denby, our huge range of campervans cover numerous finance options to suit all budgets. Whether you’re a first time buyer searching for campervans for sale or a seasoned owner seeking a tailored conversion complete with gas hob and exterior folding table, we have the gear you need to take you to your next holiday destination or music festival.
For information and guidance on our products and servicing, contact a member of our expert team and kickstart your next adventure.
