Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles unveils a completely new generation of the Multivan in a world premiere. In technical terms the MPV is making a major leap: For the first time, a plug-in hybrid is part of the drive system portfolio. In addition, a new evolutionary stage of networked assistance, operating and infotainment systems is on board. A new interior concept makes the Multivan even more versatile. The iconic design has undergone evolutionary development: Head designer Albert Kirzinger: “The new Multivan bears the unmistakable genes of the world’s best-known van design.”
With today’s world premiere of the new Multivan, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is ushering in a new era for the brand and for mobility. In future, the Bulli range will be made up of three pillars: the Multivan and Transporter 6.1 model lines and the ID.BUZZ, being launched in 2022. The “T6.1” remains the specialist for commercial use and the basis of the California camper van icon. With the lifestyle ID.BUZZ MPV and the ID.BUZZ Cargo van, which is tailored to the urban environment, two all-electric models will conquer new segment. The new Multivan with up to seven seats, meanwhile, assumes more than ever the key role of the variable all-rounder.
Designed above all for families and active sporty people, the Multivan fits with its completely new seating and cargo space system into countless mobility scenarios. With its now lounge-like interior, the MPV is also suitable as a high-class shuttle. This applies all the more as the new generation also debuts, parallel to the basic model, as an extended version with an even larger luggage compartment (up to 4,053 litres of luggage capacity). From now on, there are only easily adjustable and removable individual seats in the rear, so that expensive bikes, for example, can now travel in the interior. The maximum interior height also remains unchanged; in combination with the new panoramic roof, it has even been increased.
The Multivan bridges the gap to the digital world with its instrument panel, which has also been completely redesigned, and the display landscape integrated into it. It is equipped as standard with the ‘Digital Cockpit’ (digital instruments) and the ‘Ready 2 Discover’ infotainment system. Via an online control unit, the system brings a wide range of online services and functions on board as standard. As a Function on Demand, Multivan owners can also activate the navigation function of the “Ready 2 Discover” at a later date.
A new feature of the model line is the plug-in hybrid system. The 160 kW / 218 PS high-tech drive system combines local zero-emission driving with very long ranges and low overall consumption. The Multivan with plug-in hybrid drive system has the name suffix ‘eHybrid’. In parallel, the front-wheel powered Multivan will be available with two different turbocharged petrol engines. They produce 100 kW / 136 PS and 150 kW / 204 PS. In 2022, a turbo diesel (TDI) with 110 kW / 150 PS will follow.
Generally fitted as standard: an automatically shifting dual-clutch gearbox (DSG).
The number of assist systems has been significantly increased. Always fitted as standard: Car2X (local warning system), Front Assist area monitoring system inclusive of City Emergency Braking, Lane Assist lane keeping system, swerve support system with new Turn-off Assist, Dynamic Road Sign Display and cruise control system. The innovative new systems include ‘IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist’, which facilitates semi-automated driving from 0 to 210 km/h. Another novelty for the Multivan are the “IQ.LIGHT – LED Matrix Headlights” with interactive light control, optionally available as an alternative to the standard LED headlights. With its high-tech features, the most progressive Multivan ever transfers an automotive attitude to life into the modern era.
