Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer vs. Volkswagen Caddy: Complete comparison 2026

The Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer, the passenger version of the compact van sharing its technical basis with the Renault Kangoo and closely related to the more premium T-Class, represents a highly practical and comfortable companion for families and entrepreneurs alike. Standing against it is the Volkswagen Caddy, whose passenger versions often carry the Caddy Life designation (while its current generation can also be seen on the roads under the sister name Ford Tourneo Connect), which has long been considered the absolute benchmark for spaciousness and variability in its class. Let's take a detailed look in the following comparison at which of these two popular versatile vehicles offers those interested in a roughly four-year-old used car a better combination of driving characteristics, utility value, and everyday comfort.

When comparing external dimensions in the nearly new used car market (focusing on current generations produced roughly since 2020 and 2021), the Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer and Volkswagen Caddy are very evenly matched rivals. In their basic configurations, both cars are surprisingly similar – the standard Caddy measures exactly 4500 mm in length, while the standard Citan, at 4498 mm, is shorter by a completely negligible two millimetres. For everyday parking and maneuvering through city traffic, both basic versions offer a practically identical footprint that easily fits into even narrower spaces.

A closer look at width and height, however, reveals the first differences. At 1859 mm wide, the Mercedes-Benz Citan is slightly wider than the Volkswagen Caddy (1855 mm). Conversely, Volkswagen slightly dominates in the vertical direction, reaching a height of up to 1860 mm depending on the version, while the Citan tops out at 1830 mm. In practice, this means that while the taller Caddy may offer a bit more headroom when transporting bulky cargo or for taller passengers, the slightly wider Citan provides a more airy feel in the interior around the shoulder area.

The most significant difference appears when looking at the extended versions of both models, which are often purchased for larger families or business use. The extended Volkswagen Caddy Maxi grows to a respectable 4853 mm with a wheelbase of 2970 mm. However, Mercedes-Benz went even further with its "Lang" version – the body length is 4922 mm and the wheelbase has been stretched to a massive 3100 mm (130 mm more than the Caddy Maxi). Therefore, if you require maximum directional stability on the highway, the greatest possible longitudinal legroom, or uncompromising transport capacity from a family or work van, the extended Citan emerges from this comparison as the more spatially generous choice.

Luggage space is one of the most important parameters for passenger vans and family MPVs. Trunk volume and its practical utility often determine whether a specific vehicle becomes the ideal partner for a large family, active athletes, or small business owners. Differences in this class can be surprisingly significant, and every extra liter means better daily flexibility for transporting strollers, bulky sports equipment, or simply larger grocery hauls.

When comparing standard five-seater versions from the latest generations on the used car market (i.e., cars about 4 years old), the fifth-generation Volkswagen Caddy clearly has the upper hand. Its trunk offers a fantastic 760 liters up to the parcel shelf, a value that easily satisfies even very demanding family needs. In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer (W420 generation from 2021) provides a basic volume of 520 liters up to the height of the load cover. The 240-liter difference in favor of the Volkswagen in the basic configuration literally means space for several extra suitcases. However, the Citan Tourer is very cleverly designed in terms of shape, features a huge loading opening, and its volume is more than sufficient for weekend shopping and longer vacations with a standard crew.

When it comes to moving or transporting truly large cargo and the rear seats need to be folded down, both cars transform into almost full-fledged utility workhorses. The Volkswagen Caddy reaches a maximum volume of up to 2556 liters here, while the Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer follows closely with its 2390 liters. Furthermore, extended versions (Caddy Maxi and Citan Tourer Lang) also appear on the used car market for both models, pushing the total transport capacity even further. An advantage of modern representatives of this class is that potential electric and hybrid variants (such as the eCitan Tourer) maintain an identical volume to the classic internal combustion versions thanks to cleverly placed batteries in the floor.

Towing capacity is one of the most important parameters for compact passenger vans. The trailer weight determines whether you can use the vehicle for towing a family caravan, transporting a boat, or simply needing to occasionally transport heavier construction materials. If you are choosing roughly four-year-old models on the used car market, both the Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer (current generation 420) and the fifth-generation Volkswagen Caddy offer exceptionally comparable and highly practical values for everyday life. Both vehicles easily handle an unbraked trailer with the standard legal weight of 750 kg; however, their approach to rating braked trailers differs slightly.

From a specifications perspective, the Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer offers maximum clarity – all its internal combustion engine versions (petrol and diesel) have a uniform maximum and standard braked trailer weight of exactly 1500 kg. It is even more pleasing that the fully electric eCitan Tourer version retains this capacity without compromise, making it an above-average capable zero-emission workhorse in this class. Conversely, the Volkswagen Caddy approaches limits in more detail based on the specific body version and chosen engine. While standard values for weaker specifications or certain more utility-oriented versions start at 1300 to 1400 kg, the vast majority of more powerful and popular variants can tow the maximum. Whether it's the more powerful 1.5 TSI petrol four-cylinders, the economical 2.0 TDI diesels, or the modern 1.5 TSI eHybrid plug-in hybrid, their braked trailer weight reaches the same limit of 1500 kg.

From a practical standpoint, these figures represent an ideal situation. With both models, you can easily tow a small to medium-sized family caravan, which provides comfortable space for a few extra suitcases and offers capacities that are fully sufficient for weekend shopping or longer holidays. As a result, trailer weight will not be the parameter that should definitively decide your purchase – whether you choose the Citan with its unified capacity or the Volkswagen Caddy, you will find a practical companion with identical upper limits in both.

Engine Comparison

When choosing a compact family or utility vehicle, the powertrain plays a crucial role. Those looking for roughly four-year-old used cars from around 2022 will choose between two different approaches. The Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer relies primarily on smaller-displacement alliance engines developed in cooperation with Renault. These score points for overall refinement and excellent efficiency, which will be appreciated especially by calmer drivers. In contrast, the fifth-generation Volkswagen Caddy bets on proven and slightly larger-displacement group units, which provide robust torque in diesel versions and make it an ideal workhorse for driving under full load. Over time, both brands have also reflected new trends – Mercedes-Benz later offered a fully electric model, while Volkswagen enriched its range with natural gas variants or a modern plug-in hybrid.

Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer

The basis of the petrol range for the current generation Citan Tourer (since 2021) is a proven 1.33-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It is available in two power variants: the base 110 (75 kW) and the more powerful 113 (96 kW). These engines are exceptionally quiet and represent a great choice for suburban driving. For drivers with high annual mileage, the 1.5-liter diesel four-cylinder is ideal, bearing the commercial designations 110 CDI (70 kW) and 112 CDI (85 kW). As standard, the engines are paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, but for more powerful versions, a very well-tuned seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) could also be chosen. Later (from approximately 2023), the range also expanded to include the fully electric eCitan model, but this currently appears only exceptionally on the four-year-old used car market.

Volkswagen Caddy

The Volkswagen Caddy range will especially please proponents of slightly higher displacements. The petrol range on the market is represented by the 1.5 TSI four-cylinder with 84 kW, which can effectively deactivate cylinders (ACT) for maximum fuel consumption reduction. However, the dominant force in the used car market is the exceptionally popular 2.0 TDI SCR diesel two-liter. Depending on the version, it is supplied with outputs of 55 kW, 75 kW, and as a top variant with 90 kW. This most powerful turbodiesel also boasts a massive 320 Nm of torque and could be equipped with the excellent 4MOTION all-wheel drive, an invaluable feature you won't find on the Citan. Power transmission in most specifications is handled by a six-speed manual or a lightning-fast seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox. Also worth mentioning is the less common compressed natural gas version (1.5 TGI), which appeared in the range only limitedly between 2022 and 2023. Additionally, from the end of 2024, a modern 1.5 TSI eHybrid plug-in hybrid with 110 kW was added, but it does not yet feature among currently four-year-old cars.

Choosing the right powertrain for passenger vans is critical for long-term satisfaction, as these vehicles often face heavy loads and high mileage. While the Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer generation W420 (available since late 2021) benefits from shared development with the Renault-Nissan alliance and uses finely tuned units with French roots, the fifth-generation Volkswagen Caddy (on the market since late 2020) relies fully on the MQB group platform and the proven evolution of its own engines. Our recommendation for roughly four-year-old used cars is based on real service experience, real fuel consumption, and daily user-friendliness.

For Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer we recommend: 112 CDI (1.5 diesel, 85 kW / 116 hp)

This engine, internally designated OM 608, is based on the legendary and incredibly time-tested 1.5 dCi unit from Renault. However, Mercedes-Benz specifically modified it for the Stuttgart brand's needs (using its own control unit and different software). For the family-oriented Citan Tourer, it represents the absolute ideal – offering smooth pull, strong torque of 270 Nm available from low revs, and exemplary refinement. Furthermore, a fully loaded car does not suffer from breathlessness on highway climbs, and real fuel consumption easily stays between an excellent 5.0 and 5.5 liters per 100 km.

• What to watch out for: Since it is a modern diesel, its biggest enemy is exclusively city traffic with a cold engine. The diesel particulate filter (DPF) system needs regular regeneration on longer routes; otherwise, there is a risk of premature clogging. As mechanical prevention, we strongly recommend shortening the factory service interval for oil changes to a maximum of 15,000 km or 1 year, which significantly extends the life of the turbocharger and crankshaft bearings.
• Who it's ideal for: A great choice for families, cottage owners, and drivers who take longer trips on weekends and do not use the car exclusively as a "taxi" for two-kilometer trips for shopping or school.

For Volkswagen Caddy we recommend: 2.0 TDI SCR (90 kW / 122 hp)

The fifth generation of the Caddy model brought evolutionary diesel engines from the EA288 evo generation under the hood, and the 90 kW variant is clearly the most versatile and best choice in the range. It provides excellent dynamics, confident torque of 320 Nm, and the immense mechanical durability of a robust two-liter block. It works perfectly with both the precise manual transmission and the fast seven-speed DSG automatic. The engine is excellently soundproofed, and real combined fuel consumption, even for such a tall vehicle, easily stays within the 6 liters per 100 km limit.

• What to watch out for: This engine uses the innovative "Twin Dosing" system (double AdBlue urea injection for extreme reduction of NOx emissions). However, this means two sets of SCR catalysts and injectors, which can be sensitive to old or low-quality urea – it pays to fill up AdBlue at gas stations with high turnover. For vehicles with mileage approaching 100,000 km, it is also good to visually check the water pump for leaks and ensure coolant levels aren't dropping, which is a minor weakness of this engine family.
• Who it's ideal for: This two-liter is an unbeatable workhorse for highway mile-munchers, drivers towing heavy caravans or trailers, and generally for everyone looking for an indomitable and powerful universal vehicle for work and leisure.

When choosing a family passenger van, fuel consumption plays a crucial role, but official laboratory values from manufacturers can differ significantly from real-world figures on the road. For the most accurate picture of the operating costs of roughly four-year-old used cars (both models are current generations sold since 2020 and 2021), we focused on real data from drivers themselves. The independent community portal Spritmonitor.de, which collects records from the daily operation of hundreds of owners, served as the ideal platform for this comparison.

Data source: Spritmonitor.de

From the collected data, it is clearly evident that despite the huge technological progress in petrol engines, diesel remains king in the category of tall family passenger vans. Diesel engines (labeled CDI for Mercedes, TDI for Volkswagen) can power the large body with consumption balancing on the edge of six liters. For petrol variants, there is a noticeable increase in fuel consumption. Small turbocharged petrol engines often have to struggle with poorer aerodynamics and vehicle weight, which in practice means an average of over seven liters. A slight surprise is the excellent efficiency of the 1.5-liter diesel in the Mercedes Citan, which manages to drive on average about half a liter more economically than the larger two-liter under the hood of the Caddy, even though the Volkswagen engine is also considered very efficient.

For the typical user and buyer of a used car, clear recommendations follow. If you are buying a family van primarily for short hops around town or suburban traffic (for example, taking children to school and clubs), petrol variants (Citan 110/113 or Caddy 1.5 TSI) will be a better compromise regarding faster warm-up and the absence of a particulate filter prone to urban clogging. Increased consumption here is the price for lower service risks. However, as soon as you are looking for a highway workhorse or a partner for long weekend holidays, it clearly pays to go the route of diesel versions. Their consumption is not only fundamentally lower, but it also doesn't rise nearly as much even after being fully loaded with family cargo.

In conclusion, consumption should not be the only criterion, but it plays a big role. The Diesel Mercedes Citan Tourer comes out slightly more economical in the measurements and represents the absolute top for a family budget watching every liter. In contrast, the Volkswagen Caddy with the larger 2.0 TDI shows only a slightly higher appetite, which it balances perfectly with better flexibility. In terms of operating costs, however, the diesel engines of both brands are fantastic, and consumption will not be the element that should tip you directly towards one or the other rival.

Price range of used vehicles

The market for used family vans and MPVs is very specific. Focusing on models approximately 4 years old, we encounter two completely different situations. On one hand, there is the absolute used-car hit in the form of the fifth-generation Volkswagen Caddy; on the other, the slightly less traditional but more premium second-generation Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer, which shares its technical basis with the Renault Kangoo.

Volkswagen Caddy (5th generation)

The representative from Wolfsburg holds its value with absolute confidence. Huge demand from families and tradespeople means its price depreciation is very gradual.

• Base versions: A four-year-old Caddy with a 2.0 TDI engine and standard equipment can usually be purchased in the range of €16,000 to €21,000.
• Higher trims and extended versions: If you are looking for the extended Caddy Maxi variant, DSG automatic transmission, or the top Style trim, prices easily climb to €23,000 to €27,000. Specific California camping versions hold their price even more firmly, often well above the €29,000 mark.

Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer (2nd generation)

Although the Citan has the three-pointed star on the hood, it paradoxically loses value slightly faster than its German competitor on the used market, making it a very interesting and often overlooked choice.

• Base and mid-range trims: For models with the popular 110 CDI engine (1.5-litre diesel), prices for four-year-old vehicles typically range between €14,000 and €18,000.
• Better-equipped models: The Citan Tourer in PRO version or with richer equipment typically does not exceed €21,000. This means that a more luxuriously conceived Mercedes can actually be cheaper on the secondary market than a comparable Volkswagen.

Market price comparison (vehicles approx. 4 years old)

Used market evaluation:

• Volkswagen Caddy represents a huge safe bet for buyers. Its subsequent resale will be very fast and easy, but you will pay significantly more when buying it used. At the same time, the supply on the secondary market is incomparably richer.
• Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer offers a surprisingly better price-to-value ratio, as a potential buyer benefits from the higher initial price drop taken by the first owner.

Both of these family models boast that they achieved the maximum five-star Euro NCAP safety rating in their original tests. However, it is absolutely crucial to view this result in context and take into account the year the testing actually took place. Euro NCAP methodology and testing protocols are constantly evolving and becoming significantly more stringent over time. Percentage scores from different years cannot be directly compared, as newer tests include much more demanding frontal collision simulations, advanced cyclist detection, or emergency scenarios at intersections. A result that was enough for the absolute top a few years ago often means fewer points by today's standards.

Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer underwent Euro NCAP testing in 2022, from which it took home a full five-star rating. The vehicle dominated particularly in the areas of passive safety – earning a top score of 91% for adult occupant protection and as much as 93% for child protection. The assessors highlighted the perfect stability of the cabin and the protection of the driver's and passenger's knees and thighs in a frontal impact. The safety assistance equipment also performed very well with a rating of 90%, although in the category of vulnerable road user protection (69%), the vehicle showed some minor shortcomings in the event of a potential collision with a pedestrian.

Although the Volkswagen Caddy was originally awarded five stars in 2021, it underwent a significantly stricter reassessment in 2025, after which its overall result dropped to four stars. This shift clearly demonstrates the rigor of modern tests, which now penalize the vehicle's aggressiveness in a collision and require, for example, advanced protection against opening doors into the path of a cyclist (so-called "dooring"). In the current 2025 tests, the Caddy achieved 72% for adult protection and 80% for child protection. However, it significantly excelled in the protection of vulnerable road users (80%), where its modernized radars and systems were able to detect pedestrians and motorcyclists much more accurately.

In terms of overall safety, both models offer the best for their age, but each scores well in different areas. While the Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer benefits from fantastic figures in structural occupant protection according to 2022 standards, the Volkswagen Caddy offers slightly more modern solutions for threat detection in cities, as confirmed by the uncompromising 2025 tests. For families looking for maximum passive protection in the cabin, the Citan is an excellent choice; the Caddy, on the other hand, will satisfy drivers who appreciate the most advanced active safety assistants for heavy city traffic.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features aimed at making daily use more pleasant and which can be decisive for the customer in the final selection. While Mercedes-Benz brings a premium atmosphere and top-tier voice control to the small van segment, Volkswagen bets on extensive digitalization and assistance technologies adopted from passenger cars.

Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer: Premium Care and MBUX on Board

• Infotainment and connectivity: The main highlight of the interior is the MBUX multimedia system. It offers not only fast response times but, above all, advanced voice control that responds to the prompt "Hey Mercedes," which can also handle natural speech. Connection with the Mercedes me mobile app for remote vehicle access is a matter of course.
• Interior and comfort: The dashboard architecture clearly references passenger cars with the three-pointed star. Typical features include round air vents, high-quality materials, and the option of THERMOTRONIC dual-zone automatic climate control or KEYLESS-GO keyless entry and starting.
• Smart storage spaces: The Citan Tourer is designed for families and active individuals. Practicality is highlighted by a large storage shelf above the windshield, covered compartments in the dashboard, and folding tables on the back of the front seats, which children especially will appreciate on longer journeys.
• Assistance systems: Even in this class, Mercedes offers advanced helpers. The assistance systems package can include DISTRONIC Active Distance Assist and Active Steering Assist, which significantly reduces driver fatigue during highway travel or in traffic jams.

Volkswagen Caddy: Digital Revolution and Golf Genes

• Dashboard and electronics: The Caddy uses the MQB architecture, which allowed it to adopt the so-called Innovision Cockpit known from the Golf model. This connects a fully digital instrument cluster with a large central infotainment display. Temperature and volume control are handled by modern touch sliders.
• Comfort features and seats: A key optional feature for long journeys is the ergoComfort ergonomic seats with prestigious AGR health certification. Also unique is the massive panoramic roof made of laminated glass with Low-E technology, which effectively absorbs solar radiation, so you don't need a sunshade at all.
• Everyday practicality: Volkswagen offers an exceptionally useful power-latching function for the side sliding doors and the tailgate (so-called power closing) on the Caddy model. This feature significantly facilitates closing with full hands and reduces effort.
• Advanced driving assistants: Thanks to the advanced platform, the Caddy offers the Travel Assist system, which enables partially automated driving across the entire speed range. However, the real ace up the sleeve for users who frequently tow a trailer is the Trailer Assist system, which de facto handles complex maneuvering and reversing with a trailer on its own.

The Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer is a great choice for families looking for a highly practical van with a touch of premium and excellent ride comfort. Thanks to the advanced MBUX system and great soundproofing, it will especially appeal to drivers who demand modern technology and a quiet, supple ride.

The Volkswagen Caddy represents the universal benchmark of its class, which, thanks to its passenger car platform, drives confidently and offers immense space variability. It is an ideal companion for active families or cottage owners who appreciate the 4x4 option and powerful diesel engines, for which they must, however, pay extra.

Based on service reports, long-term user reviews, and data from our inspections, including CarAudit – an independent comprehensive car check, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of used cars around 4 years old should watch out for.

Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer

The second generation of the Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer (W420, from 2021) is built on a shared platform with the Renault Kangoo. It benefits from a solid mechanical foundation, but it is not immune to specific teething troubles.

• Engine and exhaust system: In the highly sought-after 1.5 dCi (OM 608) diesel engines, the differential pressure sensor hose on the diesel particulate filter (DPF) frequently cracks or comes loose. The problem manifests as the engine warning light coming on, error codes in the diagnostics, and the car entering limp mode.
• Electronics and software: The MBUX onboard infotainment system can occasionally suffer from freezing or slow responses. In early production years, moisture ingress into the rear parking camera wiring was also reported, which sometimes led to the unintended unlatching and partial opening of the tailgate.
• Safety modules: Service centers quite often deal with error messages from the airbag control unit (diagnostics report error code B1050, for example), which loses communication with the vehicle and requires professional intervention or repair of the module itself.
• Chassis and interior finish: The interior construction is robust, but creaking from harder plastics can occasionally be heard over bumps. Be careful with cars from the first year of production, which were subject to a recall due to the risk of bolts loosening on the rear axle and brake calipers.

Volkswagen Caddy

The fifth generation of the Volkswagen Caddy (Type SB, from 2020) brought a transition to the group's MQB platform, which significantly improved comfort and safety, but at the same time triggered problems with unrefined onboard electronics architecture.

• Infotainment and onboard systems (MIB3): By far the most common complaints from owners are directed at the central display. The software often freezes, restarts spontaneously, and with it, the touch control for the heating also fails. Assistance systems are also often unreliable – while driving, the car may report the unavailability of emergency braking (Front Assist), lane keeping, or adaptive cruise control for no reason.
• DSG and manual transmissions: In the seven-speed dual-clutch DSG automatics, noticeable jerking or a momentary loss of power transmission can occur during cold starts, often caused by failing mechatronics. With manual transmissions, users sometimes complain of stiff operation and prematurely worn synchronizer rings, which manifest as a grinding noise when shifting.
• 2.0 TDI engine (EA288 evo): The engines themselves are considered economical and very durable. However, if the Caddy is driven mainly on short city routes, the DPF filter clogs quickly, and the modern twin-dosing system for AdBlue injection can show sensor faults. Cases of prematurely leaking water pumps also occur with this engine.
• Body and finish: Owners quite often point out creaking from the sliding side doors over bumps and an increased susceptibility of painted hard plastics in the interior (for example, in the luggage compartment) to quick surface scratching.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Here are some specific points to focus on for these two models. Although both family vans can handle high mileages, a comprehensive car audit should always be the first step before signing a purchase agreement to avoid expensive repairs due to neglected maintenance.

When choosing a Mercedes-Benz Citan Tourer:

• Dual-clutch transmission (DCT) behavior: If you are choosing a model with the seven-speed automatic, test it in heavy city traffic. Watch for any jerking or hesitation when pulling away from a standstill or when shifting between first and second gear. Jerky starts can signal worn clutches or a need for software calibration.
• Condition of sliding door tracks: The side doors on this type of car are under extreme stress. During the inspection, open and close the doors several times with full force. Focus on resistance and any potential rubbing. Dirt in the lower rails can damage the mechanism over time and cause unpleasant squeaking or knocking when driving over bumps.
• Cold starts for diesel engines (1.5 dCi / OM608): For diesel versions, arrange a test drive with a completely cold engine. After starting, listen carefully to the idle. If the engine runs unevenly, the RPMs fluctuate, or there is a metallic clicking sound, it could be clogged injectors due to lower-quality diesel from the previous owner.
• MBUX system and reversing camera responsiveness: Quickly click through the infotainment menus and try pairing a phone via Bluetooth. Ensure that the image from the parking camera appears immediately after shifting into reverse. Some units may have experienced image dropouts or screen freezing, which is usually resolved by a software update.

When choosing a Volkswagen Caddy:

• Software stability (MIB3 infotainment): Caddy models manufactured around 2020 and 2021 often suffered from so-called teething troubles with the new infotainment. During the test drive, check if the system freezes, restarts spontaneously, and responds immediately to touch. Significantly slow reactions mean the car has likely not undergone important software updates.
• Starting off with the DSG transmission: Similar to the Citan, the seven-speed DSG in the Volkswagen requires a thorough test during stop-and-go driving. Focus on how the car responds to gentle acceleration from zero. A delayed engagement followed by a "jump" forward, or conversely, humming bearings when downshifting, indicates excessive wear on the mechatronics.
• DPF and AdBlue system check (2.0 TDI Evo): Vans are often used for short trips around town, which is not good for the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Check the trip computer for any AdBlue system warnings and observe during the drive if the car goes into limp mode. A physical inspection of the used car via diagnostics can reveal the level of filter clogging and thus prevent investments in the hundreds of thousands.
• Noises from the rear axle: The fifth-generation Caddy switched from leaf springs to more modern coil springs with a Panhard rod. During the test drive, drive over a speed bump or a rough road and turn down the radio. Dull thuds or squeaks from the rear of the car can indicate tired shock absorbers or worn-out bushings, especially if the previous owner regularly overloaded the vehicle.
• Functionality of touch surfaces: The Caddy uses touch "sliders" for volume and temperature control, as well as touch pads for the lights. Test them all – on higher-mileage units, these pads may be scratched, respond poorly to fingers, or in early models, they may even lack backlighting at night, making them difficult to use.

Sources: ADAC, garaz.cz, denik.cz, fdrive.cz, autorevue.cz, motorsport.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.