Volkswagen is launching the seventh generation of the T7 variant of Volkswagen's Type 2 with the first appearance of plug-in hybrid propulsion.This is due to the premium people-carrier variant of the T7 shifting to the same MQB chassis as many VW Group family cars.
The new Multivan's appearance and engine options are its two distinguishing features. To begin with, the MPV takes a few influences from the ID.Buzz idea, but it still appears more like a modernized version of the Transporter than anything else.
The T7 does not deviate much from the aesthetic template established by the T6, which debuted in 2015, or its predecessor, the T5, which debuted in 2003. However, the base of the windshield has been pushed forward so much that there is now an additional window between the door and the A-pillar.
The hood is flatter as well, and the full-width grille and lights offer the T7 a more dynamic, modern design while simultaneously paying homage to the iconic boxy T3-generation bus constructed between 1979 and 1991, according to Volkswagen. VW's designers chose to paint the air intakes in body color, a nod to the original air-cooled Kombis while also hinting to the electric portion of the PHEV drivetrain.
LED headlights are standard, as is the clever IQ. Light matrix adaptable bulbs are available as an option. If you check that box, you'll also receive an illuminated LED bar across the grille.
The largest improvement is on the inside, with the Multivan having the kind of dashboard and infotainment systems you'd expect from a 2021 model. Inside the cabin, the digital cockpit is now standard, so what it loses in display size it makes up for in real number of displays.
The five seats in the two back rows may be arranged separately or eliminated entirely. The maximum accessible volume can now reach 4,053 liters thanks to a newly offered expanded variant.
VW has also worked hard on the interior of the T7, which now has 25% lighter seats that are much simpler to slide or remove. The second row of seats can be swiveled 180 degrees so you can watch your teenagers ignoring you when you stop for lunch on a long trip, and the third row, which was formerly a bench, is now made up of individual detachable seats.
The most innovative feature, though, is the new adjustable height table, which can be moved between any of the sitting rows or pulled all the way through to the front, where it forms a center console.
There is more speed up front than before since an electronic parking brake and shift-by-wire DSG twin-clutch gearbox are standard, resulting in a perfectly flat floor. There is more speed up front than before since an electronic parking brake and shift-by-wire DSG twin-clutch gearbox are standard, resulting in a perfectly flat floor.
The new Multivan is only available with two gasoline engines (TSI), with a plug-in hybrid system (PHEV) available from the start. A seven-speed DSG gearbox will be standard equipment.
More power, as well. The T7 will be available with either a 134 horsepower 1.5-liter TSI or a 201 horsepower 2.0-liter TSI gasoline four, with a 148 hp diesel joining the lineup next year. The front wheels are driven by all three.
The PHEV is powered by a 1.4-liter TSI engine that produces 148 horsepower and is assisted by a 114-horsepower electric motor. They produce 215 hp when combined, but due to a 13 kWh battery pack, the eHybrid can also drive in EV mode exclusively. Volkswagen, on the other hand, has yet to publish a maximum range. However, it is expected to be in the 50km range.
Finally, the Multivan is well-equipped in terms of technology and safety measures.