Meet the all-new Volkswagen T7 Multivan promising futuristic styling, a new platform, and new advanced engines.

Despite the popularity of SUVs and a few 7-seater options being made available, when it comes to practicality and people-moving, you just cannot beat a bus. We’ve also had some of our best road trips in the Volkswagen range of Kombis and Caravelles over the years too.

The new Volkswagen T7 Multivan is said to replace the current shape Caravelle and VW says the name change is due to “eflect the complete overhaul of its predecessor while still providing the same versatility to the Caravelle’s loyal fan base. “

While the design remains entirely subjective, we can’t help but admire how futuristic it looks. In terms of size, the new model has a longer wheelbase and is wider with a lower profile, with the goal of improved aerodynamics which in turn lowers the fuel consumption. A longer model will be offered too.

Volkswagen T7 Multivan Engines

If you’re not impressed by the highly futuristic design, then the engines should surely capture your imagination. For the first time, a plug-in hybrid is available. Badged as ‘eHybrid’, there’s a 1.4-litre TSI engine mated to an 85 kW electric motor, working together to produce 160 kW. There’s a13-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery is mounted low under the van’s floor. Volkswagen doesn’t give us its electric-only capabilities yet, but we reckon for short trips to the shops, running a pure electric setup would be perfect.

There are still internal combustion engines available with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine making 100 kW and a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 150 kW. For the diesel fans, a 4-cylinder TDI with 110 kW will come later and all these engines are mated to a 7-speed DSG.

The biggest change is the switch from the Volkswagen Transporter platform to the popular MQB arrangement. MQB underpins everything from a Volkswagen Polo, Golf and Tiguan to the Audi A1 and A3 to name but a few. Its versatility is deeply impressive and we’re keen to see the space and packaging in the Multivan.

The MQB platform affords the new T7 Multivan more flexibility and space, with a clever modular seating system and smart table setup. There’s space for 7 passengers and the new seats are 25% lighter than before. The second row can be rotated 180-degress to have a conference-style seating arrangement. The third row bench has been switched to 3 individual seats, making removal easier.

The new table is an impressive piece of furniture. Volkswagen claims ‘it can be moved between any of the seating rows, and for the first time can be used as a centre console between the front seats. The table, which is completely removable, features adjustable height, three cup holders, and a storage bin.’

Inside, you’ll notice the lack of a transmission tunnel and handbrake, further increasing cabin space. The drive selector has been moved to the dashboard and now boasts shift-by-wire tech. Volkswagen has added more than 34 driver-assist system which focus on enhancing safety, convenience and comfort. Safety tech likeCity Emergency Braking, Dynamic Road Sign Display, and the Lane Assist system is standard. The new Multivan also features semi-autonomous driving capabilities thanks to thepredictive Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist.

We’re awaiting comment from Volkswagen SA regarding the new T7 Multivan availability and where it will fit in relation to the T6.1 which launched not too long ago.

Further Reading

Volkswagen Kombi Launch Review

Volkswagen Caravelle Review

5 Reasons why we love the Volkswagen Kombi