The all-new Multivan has arrived and represents the very first electrified offering from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, New Zealand.
There are two plug-in hybrid models available right now, the Family model which starts from $78,800 + ORC, and eligible for the Government’s Clean Car Discount of $5,750, plus the up-spec Energetic model from $106,000 + ORC.
The most social van
Based on the German maker's MQB platform, the T7 (seventh generation) has evolved from a long-standing heritage and pays homage to the DNA of its Kombi predecessor while providing an electric solution to suit Kiwi families.
A true seven-seater, not just a van that thinks it’s a car, the Multivan can transport up to seven people in comfort. Think business class – well almost, this luxury coach is much more than a typical seven-seater SUV or people mover (MPV). What sets the Multivan apart is it’s individually mounted rear seats - not rows - that sit on rails, meaning you can set up countless different mobility scenarios.
Easy to remove, the seating can be configured to suit the social requirements of the journey. For example, all rear passengers can face one another, much like sitting around a picnic table, or all seats can be completely removed to provide a perfect space for a Multivan sleep over. Designed to bring generations together the charismatic Multivan has something to suit everyone in the family.
Safety galore
Not only extremely comfortable, the Multivan is also very safe. With the latest in the most advanced safety features, the T7 has just been awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating. Included as standard is the Front Assist Area Monitoring System, which includes City Emergency Braking, Cruise Control and the Lane Assist system.
Way to Zero
Volkswagen have already begun their Way to Zero journey, their mission is to become completely carbon neutral by 2050. The introduction of their first electrified offering from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles demonstrates their commitment to achieving this mission. Volkswagen want Kiwis to have access to emission-free transport by 2025.
The Multivan plug-in hybrid technology provides travel for distances up to 50km* on pure electric, making the majority of school drop-offs and work commutes environmentally ‘guilt-free’.
The plug-in hybrid powertrain is made up of a 110kW 1.4-litre petrol inline four-cylinder petrol engine and an 85kW electric motor with a combined output of 160kW and 350Nm. The frugal powertrain has a fuel economy of just 1.1L/100km and a CO2 rating of 37g/km*.
The electric motor is powered by a 13kWh lithium-ion battery pack, with an all-electric range of around 50km, and a six-speed DSG dual clutch transmission sending the power to the front wheels.
Eye catching exterior
The exterior design is as charismatic as the interior. The Family models comes in a solid tone while the Escape offers a retro style two-tone finish with chrome accents that run the full length of the vehicle.
The power opening and closing sliding doors with Easy Open on both sides of the vehicle make passenger access a breeze. The standard panoramic glass sunroof offers a real treat, especially when reclining one of the rear passenger seats back to gaze up to the sky above - creating a sense of spaciousness and the ambience of a relaxation sanctuary.
MODELS: Family and Energetic
PRICE RANGE: Family $78,800 + ORC (Family, qualifies for $5,750 Clean Car Discount) Energetic $106,600 + ORC.
ENGINE: 1.4-litre turbo-petrol four with 13kWh plug-in battery
POWER: 160kW/350Nm
GEARBOX: Six-speed automated dual clutch, FWD
ECONOMY: 1.0L/100km, CO2 37g/km, EV range 50km
STATUS: Currently available
*All vehicles are tested according to WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light-Duty Vehicles) technical procedures.
Keep an eye out for our car review on the all-new Multivan, coming soon.