It's tough to find a decent seven-seater with poke for less than R500 000, but the Caddy hits a sweet spot on all three fronts.It drives well, but it's not the refinement you expect when you're paying half a million rand f.Priced at R476 800, the new Volkswagen Caddy is a compelling alternative to a crossover or SUV if you need space for seven people. We spent a week living with the 2.0TDI Kombi version, which only comes with a six-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive.
Push the clutch to the floor, and you'll feel its weight. And then, when you're pulling away, you have to nurse the clutch out gently to avoid stalling the engine. It takes a bit of getting used to, as you expect a car-like bite from the clutch as they're marketing it as a family vehicle for moms and pops. Fortunately, the gearbox is beautiful with a light throw and accurate gate, so you don't miss shifts.
If you run a boutique hotel and you require a shuttle for guests. If you run a business that requires efficient staff transport. If you want a fleet bus that can move people around the country. The Caddy makes sense.But as a family car, it's just a little bit too unrefined and cannot hide its commercial vehicle underpinnings. Our car was priced at R476 800 as standard.
Wheels24 Hijackings ..done..case close.