- The all-new VW Transporter and Caravelle are based on the Ford Transit Custom and Tourneo Custom.
- The van is available in multiple bodystyles, with turbodiesel, PHEV, and BEV powertrain options.
- The PanAmericana trim brings rugged looks, better suited with the optional all-wheel-drive.
Following months of revealing teasers and spy shots, Volkswagen finally showed us the design of the all-new seventh-generation Transporter and Caravelle vans, joining the fully electric ID. Buzz and Multivan T7 offerings. The VW Transporter T7 is heavily based on the Ford Transit Custom, offering the option between turbodiesel, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains.
The new generation will be available in LCV (panel van / panel van Plus / double cab dropside) and passenger (Kombi / Caravelle) flavors. Furthermore, there is are high roof and extended wheelbase options for those who need more space at the back.
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Predictably, the VW Transporter/Caravelle share their proportions and more than a few body panels with the Ford Transit/Tourneo Custom twins. Still, VW designers tried to make it look different by infusing some of their own styling cues.
The highlight is the redesigned face, combining elements from the Multivan and the ID. Buzz. Other VW-specific features include the flat beltline on the side windows and the Amarok-style LED taillights with body-colored inserts. The interior is largely carried over from the Ford, with a standard digital cockpit comprising a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13-inch infotainment, and numerous practical storage compartments.
VW Caravelle Style
VW Transporter PanAmericana
The first photos depict a blue Caravelle nine-seater in the flagship Style trim, and a green-yellow Transporter panel van in the adventurous PanAmericana guise. The latter is distinguished from the unpainted bumpers with matching fenders and side moldings, alongside a set of 19-inch Indianapolis alloy wheels. Inside, we find illuminated stainless steel inlays on the side steps, high-gloss black accents, and special seat fabrics with PanAmericana lettering.
In terms of specifications, VW claims that the T7 offers “more space, payload, towing capacity, and efficiency” compared to its predecessor. The T6.1 had to be discontinued earlier this year due to not complying with the latest cybersecurity regulations in the European Union.
Plenty of Powertrain Options
Depending on the variant, the new Transporter measures between 5,050 and 5,450 mm (198.8 – 214.6 inches) long, with a wheelbase of 3,100 mm (122 inches) or 3,500 mm (137.8 inches). Compared to its predecessor, it is longer and wider, resulting in an increased maximum load capacity between 5.8-9.0 cubic meters (204.8-317.8 cubic feet). Depending on the variant, the maximum payload is 1.33 tonnes (2.932 pounds), and the towing capacity is up to 2.8 tonnes (6,173 pounds).
The van is available with three turbodiesels, a 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid, and a trio of fully electric powertrain options. The least powerful diesel generates 108 hp (81 kW / 110 PS), while the most potent EV produces 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS). The ICE-powered models are FWD with optional AWD for the more powerful diesels. On the contrary, the EVs are RWD, with an AWD version set to follow in the future.
The VW Transporter T7 is already available to order in Germany, where it is priced from €36,780 ($39,654) excluding VAT, or €43,768.20 ($47,188) including VAT for the entry-level diesel-powered panel van. Pricing for the passenger-focused Caravelle has yet to be announced. Production of the new generation will take place in Turkey, next to the Ford Transit/Tourneo Custom.
