All New T5 Multivan

Volkswagen has announced the next generation Multivan platform in Germany. This fifth generation Transporter platform (dubbed T5-platform) has grown in length and width while improving on overall structural rigidity, quality and unique interior features. More important to the North American market though, the Multivan provides a look at the platform the forthcoming Microbus will be built on. Compared to the current T4-platform Eurovan, the new Multivan has grown 3.5 inches in overall length and 2.8 inches in width providing considerably more space and legroom throughout. Unique features in the Multivan include slide-tracks in the floor that permit the seats and folding table to be positioned in a vast number of ways.

These tracks can also support a number of aftermarket additions like bike racks, entertainment centres or coolers - the possibilities are far reaching. Side air bags are not only standard for front seat passengers, but rear seat passengers as well. Sliding doors are now included on both sides of the van standard (something not offered on North American Eurovan models). The new Multivan even includes the world's first (optional) Digital Voice Enhancement (DVE) system.

In combination with the stereo loudspeakers, six microphones installed in the roof lining enable conversations to be conducted at a normal speaking volume. The Multivan is targeted at the high-end executive/luxury niche of the van market in Germany. The T5 platform is primarily used in commercial vehicle applications and therefore is not built on a car-based platform. Will this be a problem with the Microbus in the future? Most of the mini-van offerings in the U.S. are car-based platforms, so it will be interesting to see how Volkswagen packages the Microbus. One thing is for certain - the Microbus will have a robust platform on which to build from with a wide variety of potential powerplants and transmissions (including six-speed automatic).

The Microbus should be introduced during calendar year 2005 here in North America. It is unknown at this point whether the Microbus will replace the Eurovan when it reaches our shores, but it is unlikely that Volkswagen will try to market two van offerings here. Till then, all we can do is sit tight and wait. Below is the full Volkswagen AG press release on the new T5 Multivan.