The AF Caddy V2 - Big Detail

Is this the most anticipated detail in AF history? We’re not sure, but it’s definitely up there. The team has been eager to get this one in the bay for a while now.

Although the "new" AF Caddy took a little longer than usual to finish, it’s now complete and was recently revealed at Ultimate Stance to an overwhelmingly positive reception. We’re pretty proud of the crowd's reaction to this incredible VW workhorse.

Of course, before we could even think about unveiling it at the season finale, we had to get the "V2" to an AF-worthy finish. So, here's a look at what we've been working on in the lead-up to the big reveal...

Originally starting life as a stock white Caddy shell, this truck underwent a complete transformation. After being fully mocked up, it was torn down to bare metal for an inside-and-out paint job in Porsche Crayon. The work was completed during the UK lockdown by a friend of ours, out in the countryside, in a massive shed. In a way, this project immediately inherited the "built in a barn" spirit of the original Caddy that’s so universally admired.

Like the OG Caddy, this truck boasts a seriously impressive spec. While we’ll save the full breakdown for a detailed Project Spotlight feature later, it’s impossible to ignore one standout element: the wheels. These custom-built magnesium BBS E50s are not only incredible in quality but also set the high-end tone for the entire build. We’ll admit it took us until the very end to finalize the wheel spec—there was plenty of head-scratching to get them sitting just right under the arches—but the result was absolutely worth it.

Yes, we might have been a little sidetracked with our R32 GT-R, Twingo Challenge cars, and crafting some of the best detailing content on the internet along the way. But good things come to those who wait, don’t they? And this one turned out far better than just "good"!

Earlier this year, our social media followers got a sneak peek as this truck rolled into the bay, and since then, AF Mechanic Matt has been hard at work behind the scenes. Over the months, the Air Lift Performance P3 air ride system was expertly installed, monstrous Tarox brakes were fitted, a slew of wiring and plumbing tasks were completed, and a fully rebuilt, custom-painted ABF engine was dropped into place.

This mighty little powerplant perfectly blends retro aesthetics with modern performance, packed with cutting-edge features like standalone management and Jenvey Heritage ITBs—fuel-injected throttle bodies cleverly disguised to look like vintage twin carbs. To top it all off, a custom exhaust system from RTec was added, giving the setup an unmistakable bark. Rest assured, this build doesn't just look the part; it’s all about delivering serious performance with 21st-century flair.

The retro vibe carries seamlessly to the exterior. We sourced brand-new OEM trim from Heritage Parts Centre, right down to the smallest clips, seals, and door handles (check them out and use code HERITAGEFINESSE for an exclusive 10% off your order). For one of the standout finishing touches, we enlisted the legendary Neil Melliard, a master of old-school pinstriping, to add his signature custom brushwork. Yes, those stripes and logos are entirely hand-painted—no vinyl graphics here!

As the final stage of this epic nut-and-bolt rebuild, the bespoke burnt orange leather interior—including ultra-rare electric Recaro seats—was carefully installed. But no sooner was it in place than it was removed again, making way for the next critical step: a full correction and finishing session, inside and out.

The Detail

At Auto Finesse, we live by our philosophy of practicing what we preach. Even James, our Managing Director, enjoys rolling up his sleeves, grabbing a machine polisher, and diving into a major detailing project. Joined by our Senior Production Manager, Simon, and Daran, one of our Detailing Academy Pro Instructors, the Caddy was in expert hands for several days of wet sanding, compounding, and polishing. No detail was overlooked, from the engine bay to the interior. With the full range of Auto Finesse products at their disposal, the transformation truly speaks for itself.

Naturally, with the custom interior reinstalled, the team had the Caddy prepped and ready for its grand reveal at Ultimate Stance over Halloween weekend. For those eager to dive into every intricate detail of its full spec, stay tuned—a comprehensive feature shoot is coming your way soon.

In the meantime, we’re shining a spotlight on the extensive and truly epic detailing process behind this project. Don’t miss this incredible video of the Auto Finesse crew in action!