Volkswagen has revealed the new fifth-generation Caddy ahead of its UK on sale date in October.

The new van is larger and more efficient than the existing model. It borrows technology from the latest VW Group cars and is the first commercial vehicle to be based on the brand’s MQB platform.

A sportier look is achieved through more pronounced body lines and a lower roofline – something VW teased when it released images of the concept van last year.

The styling also helps with aerodynamics, contributing towards a 12% reduction in fuel consumption.

As with the previous model, the new Caddy comes in two sizes: short-wheelbase Caddy and long-wheelbase Caddy Maxi. There is only a single roof height.

The Caddy is now 4,501mm long, 1,855mm wide and 1,797mm high – that’s 93mm longer, 62mm wider and 25mm lower than before.

The wheelbase grows 73mm to 2,755mm, which should provide a more comfortable ride as well greater load space.

Despite the height reduction, interior loading height actually increases – as does the width between the wheel arches. As a result, the load space is bigger.

Dimensions for the Caddy Maxi haven't been revealed but VW says it will now take two Euro pallets loaded sideways, a feat that’s also made possible by the increased size of the sliding side loading door.

Payload has not been confirmed yet but it’s likely the new Caddy will offer a similar 800Kg to the old model.

The engine line-up consists of a 2.0-litre TDI diesel with three outputs and a 1.5-litre TSI petrol.

The diesel is offered in 75PS, 102PS and 122PS flavours. All of them feature a new twin-dosing Adblue system, which is said to reduce NOx emissions to “considerably below statutory requirements”.

There is talk of a plug-in hybrid version, although that may be reserved for the Caddy Life people carrier. No mention of an electric version has be made yet.

Inside, the new Caddy has a similar dashboard to the new VW Golf. A 6.5-inch infotainment screen comes as standard and includes VW’s suite of connected services.

A 10.2-inch infotainment screen and 10.0-inch digital instrument cluster are also offered as an option.

Traditional switches are replaced by touch-sensitive panels.

A suite of driver assistance systems are available including a partially autonomous Travel Assist, that enables high speed motorway driving with minimal driver input.

VW says it has re-engineered the lane keep assist system so that it no longer provides false warnings for the driver to hold the steering wheel.

The new VW Caddy will not be available in the UK until early 2021, although orders will be taken from October. It’s likely that further specifications and pricing will be announced closer to that date.