A new Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ Multivan is available to order now prior to its arrival here in the Spring 2022, priced from €55,435, writes Trish Whelan.
It is the first Multivan model to come with a plug-in hybrid drive system and will be offered in two length variants each with a wheelbase of 3,124mm. Cargo space ranges between 469 and 4,053 litres. Towing capacity is 2,000kg.
It is ideal for busy families with active lifestyles (with space for up to seen seats) and for use as a business MPV. It is available in ‘Multivan’, ‘Life’ and ‘Style’ specifications. The base version is longer, wider and lower while keeping its cabin space.
The Multivan can trace its roots back 70 years and seven generations to the legendary T1.
The new vehicle provides greater comfort and safety, and an innovative interior. It is built at the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles plant in Hannover in Germany, and is the first vehicle from Hannover to use the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform.
This latest version is defined by the addition of an electrified powertrain and differs from its Multivan 6.1 predecessor with a side window in the A-pillar for better all-round visibility and there are sliding doors on either side of the car. Wheel sizes are now up to 19-inches in diameter. 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. LED Matrix headlights are also an option, letting the driver use permanent full beam without blinding oncoming drivers and light the way during cornering. All models have LED rear lights as standard.
The interior comes with a digital cockpit, touch sensitive controls and the 10-inch infotainment system. Depending on spec, there are more than 20 assistance systems.
The new eHybrid PHEV powertrain combines a 1.4 turbocharged TSI petrol engine 150hp with an 85kW electric motor and 13Wh lithium-ion battery for a combined output of 218hp and zero on-road emissions driving on short trips. The Multivan comes with dual clutch DSG gearboxes, 6-speed in the eHybrid and 7-speed in the TSI/TDI versions.
Next year, it will be joined by a four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with a power output of 150hp.
