VW's medium sized van took a little bit stick during the first few days.
Inevitably the striking Tornado Red red livery drew cracks about Postman Pat but this is no cartoon vehicle and the maxi tag is extremely appropriate.
The cargo capacity would more than match anything our favourite postman would have to carry, plus the kitchen sink and plenty more to boot.
It also comes with glass option in the side panel which makes it a more than competent people carrier, with a capacity of seven occupants, while still offering plenty of storage capacity.
It is also a van for people in a hurry. Under the bonnet lurks a powerful diesel engine which is both economical and produces rapid pace.
Developing 140bhp, the van is capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in just over 10 seconds with a top speed of 116mpg.
It certainly feels quick and there is also loads of torque that more than comes into its own when laden with cargo.
With a gross vehicle weight of payloads range from 618kg up to 800kg and 4.2 cubic metres of carrying space it is a versatile cargo carrier.
Access is gained through twin asymmetric wing doors that offer good access, even though wider loads are restricted by the wheel arches.
Sliding side doors with a width of 700m and a height of 1,108mm also make life easier when loading longer loads. The cargo space also features six lashing rings to firmly secure the loads.
The load sill is also quite low to aid easy access and sill protection and half height hardboard protects much of the cargo area.
The interior of the driving compartment is typically VW, well built and made to last. The seats are both supportive and firm with decent upholstery. Here there is plenty of extra stowage space with an aircraft-style overhead box that is the full width of the driving cabin, side pockets and cubby holes plus four drink holders.
Instrumentation is neat and sturdy and easy to use with the VW blue and red colour combination on the dials.
Standard kit on the test model includes remote central locking, alarm and immobiliser, driver airbag air conditioning and an excellent sound system.
Other safety features include ABS and traction control.
On the road the car feels composed with road and wind noise well suppressed. Motorway driving is a comfortable and relaxing, but the real bonus is economy.
A combined figure of around 44mpg proved about right on the test drive with the needle to reluctant to move from full on the first couple of days.
The vehicle would clearly gobble up miles of business journeys for minimum outlay.
In what is a competitive market, the Caddy comes in at £14,450 plus VAT, and offers pretty good value for money.
FAST FACTS
Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Van 2.0 TDI PD
Price: £14,450 plus VAT
Mechanical: 140bhp, 1,968cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Gross Vehicle Weight: 2,342kg
Max speed: 116mph
0-62mph: 10.4 secs
Insurance group: 4A
Economy: 45.6 mpg (50% payload)
Fuel tank: 60 litres
Warranty: 3yrs/ 100,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust,