Volkswagen has revealed the Multivan as a new seven-seat people carrier, which replaces both the Caravelle and Sharan in the firm’s range.
Previously the Caravelle was based on the Transporter van, but the new Multivan uses the MQB platform, which underpins models like the Golf and Tiguan.
Boasting a bolder design with new front and rear light signatures, it also features front air intakes that are painted in the same colour as the rest of the vehicle.
Two body sizes will be available – measuring 4.97m and 5.17m long – while the Multivan is also lower and wider than the Caravelle, and with a longer wheelbase.
New high-end features like an optional panoramic glass roof, an electric boot and Matrix LED headlights are also available, and help to shrug off the van-like roots.
Inside, it offers seating for seven, with the rear seats said to be lighter and easier to move – one of the Caravelle’s weaknesses before. The second row of seats can also be spun around to create a ‘conference’ like setup. A removable table is also fitted that can be moved between the seating rows and can even be used as a centre console between the rear seats.
Volkswagen says additional space has been created thanks to a flat floor achieved by the lack of conventional handbrake and also because all Multivans wil come with a DSG automatic gearbox. In terms of boot space, it offers 469 litres of luggage room with seven seats in place, extending to 3,672 litres with just the front seats in position.
A more car-like interior is also provided with a touchscreen measuring up to 10 inches, along with a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, while high-end features like a Harmon Kardon sound system and a head-up display.
Up to 34 driver assistance features are available, including ‘IQ.Drive’ that combines adaptive cruise control with lane assist to offer semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
A plug-in hybrid version of the Multivan will also be available, being the first of its type to be offered in a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle. Featuring a similar setup as that found in models like the VW Tiguan e-Hybrid and Skoda Superb iV PHEV, it combines a 1.4-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined 215bhp. No electric-only range has been given, but expect it to be able to travel around 30 miles just on battery power. More conventional petrol and diesel engines will also be available, ranging in power from 134bhp to 201bhp.
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