VOLKSWAGEN MULTIVAN
For once, the clue is in the name. ‘Multi’ for multi-purpose; ‘Van’ for van. Our Best Large Car, Volkswagen’s T7 Multivan, is an immensely practical vehicle, as demonstrated by the fact that you will find it listed among Volkswagen’s commercial vehicle line-up rather than the company’s passenger cars, even though this seven-seater in effect replaces VW’S earlier MPVS. But its merits stretch beyond its mere size.
It’s one of three models, alongside the ID Buzz and a forthcoming Ford Transit-platform van, that could equally lay claim to being the spiritual successor of the original Type 2 Volkswagen microbus.
That this model carries the T7 designation tells you it’s the one that VW thinks best continues the famous lineage, with all of the obligations that come with it. Not only should a T-something vehicle be spacious, but it should also have the character that Volkswagen has historically imbued into the previous generations of its flat-fronted carriers of people and stuff during their 74-year history.
The Multivan manages it. Giving a van character can’t be easy when the natural shape of these things means flat sides, flat rear and a relatively flat front. But Volkswagen has increased the visual appeal on the T7, giving it a characterful face and a high-quality appeal. Two-tone paint with a chrome strip and a factory-fresh allure aping aftermarket individuality no doubt help. That it’s built on a car platform, rather than a van one, enhances the appeal in other ways.
The initial aura when you slide open those big rear doors, swing up the huge tailgate or even step up into the upright front seats is one of commercial-grade practicality. Three pairs of rails in the back allow seats or tables to be slid, rotated, folded or removed completely in unbeatably useful style. But the T7 derives much of its refinement and comfort from the fact that it sits on an advanced car architecture, giving it a level of cabin isolation and a demeanour that, while a little short of, say, a Golf or an Arteon, is better than anything with this kind of cavernous echo chamber of a body really has a right to be. It also has an effect on the perceived quality. In passenger cars – especially ones with the starting prices of the Multivan – one expects better interiors than in a commercial vehicle, and here you get it. There is a generous level of equipment, plus high-grade materials and an executive car feel – which is as it should be given that the Multivan’s rivals are wellappointed estate cars and SUVS. That it’s as pleasing to be around as those while offering unrivalled practicality makes it easily our Best Large Car of the year.
The T7 has a characterful face and a highquality appeal