Here we discuss VW wheels, tyres, suspension and lift kits for the VW T5 and T6.
A lot has changed since the T2 bus was in production. The list is almost endless when it comes to aftermarket upgrades to VW T5 and T6 wheels, tyres and suspension. Also the makes and suppliers are plentiful, but here’s some pointers to help you, when looking into getting that street lowered look or swamper style.
Aftermarket alloy wheels for a Volkswagen T5/T6 can come in a wide range of sizes, usually ranging from 16 inches to 22 inches in diameter. The most commonly used sizes are 18 inches and 19 inches, although 20 inches can be quite popular.
A very popular straight swap is from the Range Rover. It is possible that some Range Rover alloys may fit a VW T5 or T6, but it depends on the specific wheel and the bolt pattern. The bolt pattern for a VW T5 and T6 is 5×120, which means there are 5 lugs with a distance of 120 mm between them. It is important to ensure that the Range Rover wheel you are interested in has the same bolt pattern and a compatible offset. Additionally, the size of the wheel should be checked to ensure it is appropriate for the T5 or T6. The recommended wheel size for a VW T5 or T6 is usually between 16 and 22 inches in diameter, with a width of 6 to 10 inches and an offset of around 45 to 50 mm. It is recommended to consult with a professional wheel and tire specialist to ensure that the Range Rover alloys you are considering will fit properly on your VW T5 or T6
The recommended tyre sizes for a Volkswagen T5/T6 with 18-inch alloy wheels are 235/50R18 or 255/45R18. For 19-inch alloy wheels, the recommended tyre sizes are 235/45R19 or 255/40R19. These tire sizes are chosen to maintain the same overall diameter as the original wheels and tires, which helps to ensure that the speedometer and odometer readings remain accurate.
The arch gaps for each combination will depend on the specific suspension setup and ride height of the vehicle. Lowering the suspension can reduce the arch gaps, while raising the suspension can increase them. Generally, larger wheel sizes and lower profile tires will reduce the arch gaps.
As for ride comfort, larger alloy wheels with lower profile tyres can make the ride feel stiffer and less comfortable. This is because there is less cushioning between the wheel and the road surface, resulting in more road feedback and vibrations being transmitted to the vehicle’s occupants. However, choosing a quality tyre with good shock-absorbing properties can help to mitigate this effect.
Suspension
There are several aftermarket suspension systems available for the VW T5 and T6, each offering various pros and cons. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Coilover suspension: Coilover suspension systems are a popular choice for Volkswagen T5 and T6 owners who want to improve their vehicle’s handling and adjustability. These systems typically include adjustable dampers and spring rates, allowing the driver to fine-tune the suspension to their liking. Coilover kits are available from several manufacturers, including KW, Bilstein, and H&R. Prices for coilover kits start at around £500 and can go up to £2,000 or more. 
Pros:
– Improved handling and adjustability
– Lowered ride height
– Better appearance
Cons:
– Stiffer ride quality
– Higher cost than some other options
2. Lowering springs: Lowering springs are an affordable option for Volkswagen T5 & T6 owners who want to improve the appearance of their vehicle and reduce body roll. These springs are designed to lower the ride height of the vehicle and improve handling. Lowering spring kits are available from several manufacturers, including Eibach, H&R, and Vogtland. Prices for lowering spring kits start at around £150.
Pros:
– Improved appearance
– Reduced body roll
– Lower cost compared to other options
Cons:
– Stiffer ride quality
– Limited adjustability
3. Air suspension: Air suspension systems are a popular choice for Volkswagen T5/T6 owners who want to lower their vehicle’s ride height and improve its handling. These systems use airbags instead of traditional springs and can be adjusted to provide a comfortable ride or a sportier handling experience. Air suspension kits are available from several manufacturers, including Air Lift and AccuAir. Prices for air suspension kits start at around £2,000 and can go up to £6,000 or more.
Pros:
– Adjustable ride height and handling
– Comfortable ride quality
– Improved appearance
Cons:
– Higher cost compared to other options
– More complex installation and maintenance
4. OEM+ suspension: OEM+ suspension systems are designed to provide improved handling and performance while maintaining the factory ride height and comfort. These systems typically include upgraded dampers, sway bars, and other suspension components. OEM+ suspension kits are available from several manufacturers, including Bilstein and H&R. Prices for OEM+ suspension kits start at around £800 and can go up to £2,500 or more.
Pros:
– Improved handling and performance
– Maintains factory ride height and comfort
– Lower cost
Lift kits.
There are several aftermarket suspension lift kits available for Volkswagen T5 and T6, each offering various pros and cons. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Body lift kit: A body lift kit is an affordable way to raise the ride height of a Volkswagen T6. This type of kit raises the body of the vehicle by installing spacers between the body and the frame. Body lift kits are available from several manufacturers, including Rough Country and Performance Accessories. Prices for body lift kits start at around £200.
Pros:
– Affordable
– Maintains factory suspension geometry
– Easy to install
Cons:
– Limited increase in ride height
– Does not improve off-road performance
2. Suspension lift kit: A suspension lift kit is a more comprehensive way to raise the ride height of a Volkswagen T6. This type of kit includes new springs, shocks, and other suspension components to provide additional ground clearance and off-road performance. Suspension lift kits are available from several manufacturers, including BDS Suspension and Fabtech. Prices for suspension lift kits start at around £800.
Pros:
– Increased ground clearance
– Improved off-road performance
– More comprehensive solution compared to body lift kits
Cons:
– More expensive than body lift kits
– May require additional modifications to the vehicle
3. Leveling kit: A leveling kit is designed to raise the front of a Volkswagen T5 and T6 to match the height of the rear. This type of kit is popular with Volkswagen T5&6 owners who want to improve the appearance of their vehicle or provide additional clearance for larger tires. Leveling kits are available from several manufacturers, including Ready-LIFT and Tuff Country. Prices for leveling kits start at around £100.
Pros:
– Affordable
– Improves appearance
– Provides additional clearance for larger tyres
Cons:
– Limited increase in ride height
– Does not improve off-road performance
4. Portal axle conversion kit: A portal axle conversion kit is a high-end solution for Volkswagen T5 & T6 owners who want to maximize their vehicle’s off-road performance. This type of kit replaces the factory axles with portal axles, which provide additional ground clearance and improve the vehicle’s approach and departure angles. Portal axle conversion kits are available from several manufacturers, including Tibus Offroad Engineering and S-Cargo. Prices for portal axle conversion kits start at around £8,000.
Pros:
– Maximum off-road performance
– Provides significant ground clearance and improved approach and departure angles
Cons:
– Extremely expensive
– Complex installation process
There really is a broad market for VW T5 and T6 wheels tyres and suspension, so shop around and ask those who may be in the know. The Dubbed Out Community is a wealth of information.
