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Volkswagen has boosted safety and equipment levels across its Caddy line-up and reduced prices for petrol versions of the light van.

The upgrades, which mark the introduction of the 2018 model year Caddy, include the standard addition of autonomous emergency braking (AEB - Front Assist with City Emergency Braking) and driver alert across the range.

Motor insurance research centre Thatcham has branded AEB “probably the most significant development in vehicle safety since the seat belt”.

VW claimed vehicles fitted with autonomous braking systems have an average insurance premium reduction of 10% compared to those not fitted with the equipment.

The new safety feature complements the post-collision braking system VW introduced to the Caddy with the lunch of the current generation in 2015.

Starting from the entry-level Startline, all vans get a leather multifunction steering wheel and multifunction display while 2018 Trendline models now feature climatic air conditioning. Flagship Highline models gain Volkswagen’s Discover Media satellite navigation system.

To encourage take-up of petrol models VW has reduced prices, with the base Startline 1.2 TSI 84hp now costing £13,745 (all prices exclude VAT) – a saving of about £1,000 compared to the previous price.