When we received Volkswagen’s German release and read the title about a new 4.5 liter Caddy, our thoughts travelled far, far away from Europe to the New World and the creations of a brand currently known for its wreath and crest logo.

We quickly returned to reality, though, and saw that, what VW was trying to tell us, is about a new version of its Caddy van series with the BlueMotion moniker that returns a combined fuel economy of 4.5 liters per 100km, which is equal to 52.3mpg US and 62.7mpg UK, in commercial trim and 4.6L/100km in passenger guise.

The new Caddy model is fitted with VW’s familiar 1.6-liter TDI turbo diesel engine with common rail direct injection delivering 101hp (102PS) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) of peak torque. What makes it stand out is the BlueMotion package of economy measures such as engine start-stop function, low rolling resistance tires, brake energy recovery (recuperation), lowered chassis by 27mm and more efficient motor control.

VW says that the BlueMotion model returns CO2 emissions of 117 g per km, and has a maximum driving range of about 1,300 km or 808 miles.

Following its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month, the new Caddy BlueMotion passenger and commercial versions will go on sale in Europe, with prices starting from €17,720 (~US$23,000) in Germany.

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