The new generation Volkswagen Transporter
was spied testing in the Alps. The T7, which will replace the current T6, was
caught on camera with its side rear windows covered up, which likely means that
we are looking at the panel van version.
Set to join the likes of the
Multivan/Caravelle, it is understood to be based on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB
platform. While this information hasn’t been confirmed yet, look for the usual
lineup of petrol and diesel engines, with 2.0 liters in displacement, and
perhaps a number of mild hybrids as well.
A plug-in hybrid might be put to use with
a four-pot and a small electric motor, powered by a battery pack that will give
it the ability to travel on electric power alone for a few tens of miles.
Besides the PHEV, the lineup will be completed by an electric powertrain, yet
unlike the current e-Transporter, which was made in partnership with ABT
Sportsline, in all likelihood it won’t have anything to do with the German
tuner.
The front end of the T7 panel van will
echo the passenger version. Nonetheless, we wouldn’t be surprised if VW applied
a tweaked bumper in order to set the two apart from each other. The back end
should look almost identical and the cockpit will be adorned with a new
infotainment system that will probably sit next to the digital gauges.
The all-new T7 should premiere before the
end of the year or in early 2021.
