2019 VW Multivan 6.1 Heralds Major Tech Update For Transporter Family

Volkswagen has just lifted the veils off the Multivan 6.1 in Wolfsburg, introducing a major update for its Transporter cargo vans, Caravelle and Multivan people carriers, and California campers.

While the Transporter family gets a refreshed front end design and dashboard, the bulk of the updates focuses on increasing the digitalization and connectivity of the vehicle, as well as making it safer courtesy of new driving assistance tech.

Thanks to the switch from a hydraulic power steering to an electromechanical system, the facelifted VW Transporter can benefit from new assistance systems. Those include the standard Cross Wind Assist which automatically stabilizes the vehicle when strong wind gusts blow, Lane Assist, Park Assist, Rear View Assist, Trailer Assist, Side Protection, and dynamic road sign display.

Speaking of display, the T6.1 gains available digital instruments for the first time and the latest connected infotainment systems. The dashboard has been redesigned to accommodate the 8-inch Digital Cockpit and the third generation of the modular infotainment matrix (MIB3) with a 9.2-inch touchscreen. The interface comes with an integrated SIM card (eSIM) that enables a range of online-based functions and services, including internet radio and music streaming services.

On the mechanical front, the facelifted Transporter family also gains an updated engine lineup consisting of new 2.0-liter TDI engines with outputs ranging from 90 PS (89 hp) to 199 PS (196 hp) as well as an all-electric model developed by ABT.

The latter will be motivated by a 112PS (110hp) electric motor fed by batteries with capacities of up to 77.6 kWh enabling NEDC-rated driving ranges of more than 400 km (248 miles). The facelifted VW Transporter models will arrive in European markets this fall.

*Post updated with live images from the VW Group Night event in Geneva