A Kombi at heart: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles reveals the all new Multivan

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has revealed the all new Multivan, featuring a fresh design, refreshed interior, improved connectivity, and for the first time, a plug-in hybrid option.

Based on Volkswagen's MQB platform, the Multivan provides customers with up to seven seats and the perfect combination of practicality, comfort, and safety for whatever their needs - from chauffeuring, to the daily school run, to holiday adventures.

The Multivan has an all new exterior design that pays homage to the DNA of its predecessors, boasting a horizontal design line and full-width grille and headlights that create a modern and dynamic look. The front air intakes are painted in the same colour as the vehicle, giving it a clean and uniform appearance.

The vehicle stands at 1,941mm wide, 4,973mm long, and 1,903mm high, with a wheelbase of 3,124mm. A long wheelbase version is also available. Its proportions are designed to improve aerodynamics, reduce fuel consumption, and increase range.

The model is available with 19-inch rims, and comes in three variants: 'Multivan', 'Life', and 'Style'. A panoramic glass roof is available as an option, with LowE laminated safety glass that reduces incoming thermal radiation by 44%. An electrically-operated rear hatch and power sliding doors, which can be operated via gesture control for ease of entry, are an optionable extra too.

The Multivan is fitted with LED headlights as standard, but can be upgraded to Volkswagen's IQ.LIGHT, which are LED matrix head lights that offer a permanent full beam without blinding oncoming drivers. The system's dynamic cornering ability provides precise illumination when travelling through bends.

Inside, the new Multivan is more flexible and spacious than ever, with a new modular seating system and innovative table design.

With space for up to seven seats, the rear five seats can be reconfigured and removed to suit individual needs, while the second row can be rotated 180 degrees to create a conference style seating layout. The full-width bench seat for the third row has been replaced by individual seats, enabling even greater customisability options for drivers.

An innovative multi-function table has been designed for the new Multivan. Using the central track, it can be moved between any of the seating rows, and can be used as a centre console between the front seats. The table, which is completely removable, features adjustable height settings, three cup holders, and a storage bin.

A completely flat floor from front to rear enables the flexible seating and table track system. This is made possible by the removal of the traditional handbrake. The new Multivan is offered only with an automatic DSG gearbox controlled via shift-by-wire technology.

In the middle is a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit display and a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen. Integrated next to these are two USB-C sockets as standard, and a tray for optional inductive smartphone charging. For the first time on a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles model, a head-up display is available.

The Multivan features more than 34 driver assist systems. City Emergency Braking, Dynamic Road Sign Display, and the Lane Assist system will come as standard. IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist is also available, enabling driver semi-autonomous driving.

The Multivan eHybrid variant combines a 148bhp 1.4-litre TSI engine with an 114bhp electric motor to enable silent, zero-emissions driving over short distances. The front-wheel drive Multivan will also be available with two four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engines - a 134bhp 1.5-litre TSI and a 201bhp 2.0-litre TSI. A four-cylinder turbo diesel will be included in the lineup next year.