VW T7 Zweikampf: Transporter gegen Multivan – Der umfassende Vergleich für 2025

The latest offerings from Volkswagen, the 2025 Transporter and its Caravelle variant for passenger transport have been revealed, bearing a resemblance to the Multivan introduced back in 2021. This similarity is intentional as the seventh generation of the iconic 'Bulli', known as T7, is split into two distinct series. On one hand, there's the Transporter/Caravelle for commercial use, and on the other, the Multivan serves as a personal vehicle. Each of these series is built on different platforms and designed with unique objectives in mind.

What sets them apart in terms of design, platform, engines, and cost? We provide an initial brief comparison of the vehicles that are equally popular among families and tradespeople.

Photo Gallery: VW Transporter and Caravelle (2024)

Design

The upcoming Transporter/Caravelle and Multivan models will replace the current T6.1 generation, which was essentially an evolution of the T5. In the T6.1 versions, these models were grouped together within a single series. The new editions will feature design elements at the front that nod to both their predecessor and the other model lines. They will also incorporate aspects of the electric ID. Buzz.

A recently released sketch from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles illustrates this point clearly: on the left is the ID. Buzz, followed by the T7 Transporter/Caravelle, and on the right, the T7 Multivan. Above, there's a live comparison of both T7 models. Notably, the Multivan features a slightly more pronounced bonnet.

Volkswagen Caravelle (2025 Model)

Volkswagen's

Volkswagen's ID. Buzz, the T7 version of the Transporter/Caravelle, and the T7 Multivan.

Both T7 models appear to be quite similar when viewed from the side. However, upon examining the rear, variations become noticeable: the Transporter/Caravelle models bear a resemblance to the Ford Transit/Tourneo Custom, to which they are closely related. This design choice is partly due to the need to accommodate a standard European pallet through the cargo door. It's worth noting that the Caravelle is essentially the Transporter model designed specifically for carrying passengers.

Volkswagen Caravelle (2025 Model)

Volkswagen Passenger

Additionally, the PanAmericana will be introduced. Featuring a sturdy off-road design and unique interior features, this resilient van will be available in the new generation, built on the framework of both the Transporter and the Caravelle models.

Volkswagen Transporter PanAmericana Edition Scheduled for 2025 Release

Platform

Despite their similar appearance, the platforms they use are quite different. The Multivan, manufactured in Hanover, is built on Volkswagen Group's MQB platform, essentially making it a super-sized VW Golf. VW Commercial Vehicles is now marketing the new Multivan as a vehicle intended for private use. The scalability and synergies of the Modular Transverse Toolkit (MQB) are leveraged, utilizing many components from this modular system. The multi-link rear axle is incorporated to enhance the comfort level.

The Multivan comes in both a short rear overhang and a long version, offering configurations of five, six, or seven seats. Additionally, there's a new option that includes five flexible individual rear seats with the face-to-face feature. Let's examine the dimensions and those of the new Transporter/Caravelle.

The latest version of the transporter measures 146 mm longer than the previous T6.1 model. Its wheelbase has simultaneously expanded by 97 mm to a total of 3,100 mm, and there will be an option for an extended wheelbase that is 400 mm longer. When compared to the T7 Multivan, both the Transporter and Caravelle models stand out for being taller and wider, and they also boast a significantly greater towing capacity. They are, after all, true commercial vehicles.

The transporter now has an exterior width of 2,032 mm, which is 128 mm wider than its predecessors when not including the side mirrors. Additionally, the width between the wheel arches has expanded by 148 mm, now measuring 1,392 mm.

Volkswagen T7 Transporter Model Scheduled for 2025

The floor length of the cargo area in the standard wheelbase van measures 2,602 millimeters, which is an increase of 61 millimeters; with the extended wheelbase, the cargo area length extends to 3,002 millimeters. Thanks to the additional length, width, and wheelbase, VW has been able to significantly enhance the cargo capacity of the van: The versions with the standard wheelbase now have a maximum storage volume of 5.8 cubic meters.

Models featuring a long wheelbase and high roof will have a capacity of up to 9.0 cubic meters. The van can be configured with as many as six passenger seats and comes with options for different partition walls. A notable addition is the availability of a flatbed truck with a crew cab, made possible by the ladder frame. The T7 Transporter/Caravelle is manufactured at the Ford-Otosan factory located in Yeniköy, Turkey.

In the cockpit, similarities between the T7 series are evident. Both feature a highly digitalized control area. A digital instrument display measuring 10.25 inches is paired with a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen at the center in the Multivan. Additionally, the driver is equipped with a head-up display for enhanced convenience.

Upcoming VW Transporter/Caravelle Model (Set for 2025 Release)

Volkswagen's

The Transporter and Caravelle models feature even larger screens, taking a cue from Ford with 12-inch digital instruments and a 13-inch infotainment display. The standard multifunction steering wheel is equipped with clearly arranged buttons. The volume for the infotainment system can be adjusted through the steering wheel or a traditional rotary knob. The manual handbrake lever has been eliminated; it's replaced by a switch for the parking brake located in the center of the dashboard. A new addition is the space-saving steering column-mounted gear selector for automatic versions.

Propulsion Systems

This leads us to the subject of propulsion systems and engines. The key distinction is that the Multivan features front-wheel drive, while the Transporter/Caravelle models are equipped with rear-wheel drive. This relates to the traction needed when carrying heavy loads. The Multivan is available only with DSG automatic transmissions, whereas the Transporter/Caravelle base models come with a six-speed manual transmission.

Additional delivery vans:

The latest T7 commercial vehicles do not come with pure petrol engines, unlike the Multivan which does. However, the Multivan cannot be purchased as an electric vehicle; that role is filled by the VW ID. Buzz. With assistance from Ford, the Transporter and Caravelle models feature a wide range of powertrains including diesel, plug-in hybrid, and electric options. Here's the breakdown:

Models with power outputs of 136 horsepower, 218 horsepower, and 286 horsepower are available, featuring a 64 kWh net battery capacity. Plans are in the works for versions with lower power and smaller batteries.

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Kosten

Wie viel muss man also für diesen attraktiven Raum ausgeben? In Deutschland startet der Preis für den T7 Multivan bei 53.056 Euro, ausgestattet mit einem 2.0 TSI Motor. Der neue Transporter ist für Anfang 2025 geplant. Zu diesem Zeitpunkt beginnen die Preise für das Modell, das im Vergleich zum Vorgängermodell T6.1 eine umfangreichere Standardausstattung bietet, bei 36.780 Euro für den Kastenwagen mit einem 81 kW (110 PS) leistenden Turbodieselmotor (TDI). Für die Variante des Pritschenwagens mit Doppelkabine starten die Preise bei 39.130 Euro (beide Preise ohne Mehrwertsteuer). Käufer des Transporters erhalten zudem eine feste Preiszusage bis zur Lieferung im nächsten Jahr.

Photo Gallery: Testing the 2024 VW T7 Multivan with the Good Night Package – Most Read

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