Billed as an Australian first for vehicles in the compact van class, Volkswagen has added two advanced driver-assist safety systems – forward collision warning and city emergency braking – as standard across its Caddy range.

Previously available as an option, both are radar-based systems designed to alert the driver of an impending accident and, if required, automatically prime and apply the brakes to prevent a collision.

Pricing increases $400 with the move, but Volkswagen Group Australia says the extra step up should be ameliorated over the period of ownership via reduced insurance premiums.

The Caddy Van (with seven-speed DSG auto only) is now priced from $29,390, while the long-wheelbase Maxi Van starts at $28,590 for the six-speed manual or $31,590 for the DSG. Five-seat Crewvan versions start from $30,909 for the manual, with DSG likewise adding $3000.

All models use a 1.4-litre TSI220 four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 92kW of power at 4800rpm and 220Nm of torque from 1500-3500rpm.