What is the Volkswagen Vanagon?
The Vanagon is the North American name for Volkswagen’s T3 Transporter. Its squared-off body and spacious cabin suited passenger travel, and the van’s practical layout also made it a natural base for camper conversions. The T3 carried forward the Transporter’s people-and-cargo focus with a more angular design.
The T3 generation
The Vanagon belongs to the T3 generation, sold in the United States from 1984 to 1991. The T3 was known by different names in other markets, including Transporter and Caravelle. During its life, Volkswagen introduced water-cooled engines alongside the earlier air-cooled units.
Engines and fuel economy
US versions were offered in 14 petrol-powered configurations, with engines ranging from 1.9 L to 2.1 L. The lowest listed consumption is 13.8 L/100 km, and the best combined rating is 17 MPG on the EPA test.
Where was it sold?
The Vanagon name was used in the United States, where the listed model years run from 1984 to 1991. Related T3 vans were sold under names including Transporter and Caravelle in other markets.
Questions and answers
What does Vanagon mean in Volkswagen’s range?
It is the North American name for the T3 generation of Volkswagen’s Transporter.
What years was the US Vanagon sold?
US versions covered model years 1984–1991.
What petrol engines were offered in the US?
The listed engine sizes range from 1.9 L to 2.1 L.
What was its best combined EPA rating?
The best listed rating was 17 MPG combined.