The Volkswagen Caddy PanAmericana, revealed in Germany on Friday, is a more ‘rugged’ version of the company’s latest-generation, MQB-based compact van range.
Set to replace the previous Caddy AllTrack, the Caddy PanAmericana was built for “light off-road terrain” and in the mould of the modern crossover, it does boast a tougher look thanks to its front and rear underbody protection as well as side body guards, roof rails and glazed 17-inch alloy wheels. Also setting it apart is a body coloured bar in the grille, with no frills or chrome, and ‘PanAmericana’ lettering, which you’ll also find on the sliding door track and on the tailgate.
The Caddy PanAmericana is available in short-wheelbase guise only, but buyers can choose between a passenger-oriented version based on the Caddy Life and a Cargo Van. Engine choices include a 1-litre TSI turbopetrol with 84 kW or a TDI turbodiesel in 75 kW and 90 kW guises. Depending on the engine selected, buyers can opt for front-wheel drive with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG gearbox, or a six-speed manual paired with 4Motion all-wheel drive.
Cabin appointments include distinctive ‘Pinestripe’ seat covers, alloy look pedals, silver tread plates, door panel garnishes and PanAmericana wording on the floor mats.
But where does its name come from? According to Volkswagen, “PanAmericana – the route from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego – gets globetrotters and all who would like to be such dreaming all over the world of motoring wanderlust and freedom”.
Volkswagen also sells a PanAmericana version of the Transporter 6,1 bus.
