Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has revealed its new Multivan – a large seven-seat MPV that directly replaces the Caravelle and also acts as a successor to the Sharan.
The Caravelle has always been based on the same platform as the Transporter van, but the Multivan gets a complete overhaul – now sitting on the same MQB car platform as the firm’s Golf and Tiguan. This allows a range of advancements, as well as the option of a plug-in hybrid for the first time.
Offering seating for seven adults, the Multivan is available in two lengths, either 4.97m or 5.17m, and features flexible seats that can easily be removed to allow for a larger boot. The second row of seats can also be spun around to create a ‘conference’ like arrangement. A clever flip-up table can also slide between the rows of seats, including being used as a centre console at the front.
The Multivan also promises a completely flat floor, which has been achieved through all models being fitted with a ‘shift-by-wire’ DSG automatic gearbox that minimises space, as well as no manual handbrake.
The bold-looking Multivan gets striking new LED headlights (which can be upgraded to Matrix LEDs as an option), as well as a funky body-coloured air intake. The model pictured also features a cool two-tone body colour, though this is likely to be optional.
Elsewhere, the Mutlivan is packed with equipment, including a 10-inch touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital dial system, along with more advanced remote and connected services that enable features such as unlocking and locking the vehicle’s doors using your smartphone.
It’s also the first Volkswagen commercial vehicle to come with a head-up display, while a full-length panoramic glass roof and electric boot aim to give the Multivan a higher-end feel than the previous Caravelle.
The Multivan is equipped with the same impressive safety systems as you’d expect to find on the brand’s passenger cars, including the likes of Travel Assist, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane-keep assist for semi-autonomous driving capability.
A range of regular petrol and diesel engine options will be available alongside a new plug-in hybrid, which combines a turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol with an electric motor for a total of 215bhp. Though Volkswagen hasn’t released any efficiency figures, expect it to be able to travel on electricity alone for around 30 miles.
Three trim levels will be available – Multivan, Life and Style – with prices likely to start from around £50,000.
