Is new VW ‘van’ the ideal family car?

WHEN it comes to settling on a family car, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of believing a crossover is the be-all and end-all.

Sure, models like the Nissan Qashqai and Ford Kuga serve a purpose, but what they don’t tend to offer is a huge amount of space.

This is where van-based people carriers step in, and one of the most dominant players is Volkswagen with its Transporter van and subsequent passenger versions.

It’s been a hit for years, but VW is looking to reinvent it with the all-new Multivan.

What’s new?

While it still has ‘van’ in its name, and looks a lot like one too, what this VW actually isn’t is a van.

The Multivan is actually a completely separate offering to the Transporter, and essentially replaces the plush Caravelle.

Now based on the MQB platform that underpins cars like Volkswagen’s own Tiguan, it aims to make the Multivan more ‘car-like’ than ever, while also making way for a range of safety, tech and powertrain advancements – not least the option of a plug-in hybrid, the first to be offered under the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles umbrella.

What’s it like to drive?

VW makes a big deal about the Multivan’s car-like behaviour on the road and it’s largely true.

Though the Caravelle was already one of the betterdriving models in this class, the Multivan is a big step up. It’s the refinement that’s especially impressive, as it shrugs off the van-like roots and is impressively quiet at motorway speeds.

Another thing that strikes you about the Multivan is its manoeuvrability.

The number of windows make it feel like a greenhouse, while a surprisingly tight turning circle means it’s easy to park.

What’s it like inside?

A Multivan needs to deliver on space and versatility and, oh boy, does it succeed.

There are cubby holes everywhere to store odds and ends, while the sheer size of it allows for acres of room.

You can have it with six or seven seats, with the rear seats all being placed on rails, allowing them to be slid easily, or individually removed in seconds.

There are also sliding doors as standard (they’re electric on higher-spec cars), while you can run the centre console from the front to the back on the same rails.

How does it look?

Volkswagen’s ‘T’ line-up of models command loyalty that other brands can only envy, and this T7 – another name for the Multivan – manages to retain the Transporter’s charm, yet be modernised as well.

Granted, there’s no disguising its boxy shape, but the twotone paint schemes on offer, LED lighting and bodycoloured grille give it a level of charm you just don’t get with models in this sector normally.

There are also two lengths on offer – the standard car measuring 4.98m and the longer adding 20cm to that thanks to a rear overhang.

Volkswagen’s latest people mover aims to shift away from the traditional van formula, but does it succeed? Ted Welford puts the Multivan to the test.

What’s the spec like?

With the first Multivans not set to reach the UK until March next year, prices are yet to be announced, but VW hopes to make it cheaper than the Caravelle, with a ballpark starting figure of £45,000. Again, full specifications haven’t been detailed, but all models will feature LED headlights, cruise control and a 10-inch touchscreen and digital dials as standard.

Our test option was the Energetic, which will be the launch edition and bring a whole range of extra kit, including a 360-degree camera, heated electric seats and large alloy wheels.

Just be prepared to pay for the privilege – we wouldn’t be surprised if the top-spec Multivans, especially with the plug-in hybrid, cost well in excess of £60,000.

The verdict

VW labels the Multivan as the ‘perfect car for families’ and it’s hard to disagree.

Though the Transporter is a practical tool, this new car is on another level. There isn’t another car that offers this level of versatility on sale today.

Add in the fact that the Multivan remains desirable to look at and modern inside, and there’s a huge amount going for it.

If you crave the ultimate in family transport, they won’t get much better than this.