For a multipurpose vehicle that spans back 70 years and over seven generations, the new Multivan from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has come up with a number of interesting and innovative firsts in this growing segment.
• New Multivan is the first to come with a plug-in hybrid drive system and all models have a DSG dual clutch gearbox as standard.
• Safer and easier to drive: Multivan can for the first time be driven in semi-automated mode
- it’s overall height has been lowered to 1.9m, allowing to enter multi-storey car parks
- Available in two length variants with wheelbase in both models measuring 3,124 mm
•Digital interior creates more space for driver and front-seat passenger
• Available to order now with prices starting from €55,435.
Volkswagen’s new Multivan, which in effect replaces the Caravelle generation, is a premium, family oriented multipurpose vehicle that provides greater comfort and safety, an innovative interior and is available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the environmentally friendly customer.
Built at the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV) plant in Hannover, Germany, the new Multivan is the first vehicle within the VWCV family to use the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform. This chassis development allows for the hybrid technology and the fitting of advanced safety systems.
Multivan is set to arrive in Irish showrooms in Spring 2022 and priced from €55,435.
Perfect for busy families and active lifestyles the Multivan’s lounge-like interior also means it is equally suited as a business MPV. With space for up to six passengers plus driver, and coming with multi-adjustable and removable seats, this Multi Utility Vehicle (MUV) is available in ‘Multivan’, ‘Life’ and ‘Style’ specifications. It offers up to 4,053 litres of flexible luggage space and a towing capacity of 2,000 kg.
Chief designer Albert-Johann Kirzinger and his team have created a striking exterior proudly take styling cues from its iconic predecessors – short overhangs, a long wheelbase, optional two-tone paint and a horizontal character line that pays homage to the iconic T3. Sliding doors adorn either side of the vehicle and there’s a roof-edge spoiler at the back, to aid aerodynamics.
The new Multivan differentiates itself from its Multivan 6.1 predecessor with a quarter light in the A-pillar that increases all-round visibility. Wheel sizes are now up to 19 inches in diameter.
The base version is longer, wider and lower while retaining its acclaimed cabin space. It measures 4,973 mm long (+69 mm), 1,941 mm wide (+37 mm) and up to 1,903 mm high (-47 mm). The long version measures 5,173mm long and has an identical 3,124 mm (+124 mm) wheelbase. VWCV has made great advances with the aerodynamics with a drag coefficient of 0.3.
New, optional features include an electrically operated rear hatch that can be opened with a flick of the foot, a heads-up display and a high-end, 840-watt Harman Kardon sound system. The modern interior is equipped with a digital cockpit, touch sensitive controls and the 10-inch infotainment system.
It comes with a multi-function table (standard on Style version) that can be used as a centre console between driver’s seat and front passenger seat or as a fold-out table complete with cup holders and storage bins on the second or third seating row. Rear seats come with practical fold-down tables and are up to 25% lighter, making it easier to re-arrange them or remove them altogether.
Depending on specification, there are more than 20 assistance systems. Standard features include the Car2X (local warning system), Front Assist with City Emergency Braking, Swerve support with new Turn-off Assist, Dynamic Road Sign Display, Lane Assist and cruise control. IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist combines predictive Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist to offer a semi-automated driving experience that enhances mid- to long-distance driving.
Regarding the drivetrain, Volkswagen’s new eHybrid plug-in hybrid powertrain system is fitted here, which combines a 1.4-litre turbocharged TSI petrol engine 150hp with an 85kW electric motor and 13 kWh lithium-ion battery for a combined output of 218hp (160kW) and zero on-road emissions driving on short trips.
Next year it will be joined by a four-cylinder turbo diesel engine (TDI) with a power output of 150hp (110 kW). The Multivan comes with dual clutch DSG gearboxes, 6-speed in the eHybrid and 7-speed in the TSI/TDI versions.
Commenting on the pending arrival of the Multivan, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland Director Alan Bateson, said: “The Multivan is a vehicle like no other, from a well-earned reputation for high quality, practicality, reliability and safety it sets the benchmark in this segment. Now, with our new Multivan, we are making a huge leap forward by embracing the new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) and a plug-in hybrid drive system for the first time. The 218hp PHEV model brings zero on-road emissions and long range into full alignment with low total consumption. In addition, the Multivan is also available with a turbo diesel power plant delivering 150hp which will follow later in 2022.”
