Long-awaited diesel version of VW people-carrier arrives to undercut the ‘eco’ choice.

DEPARTING diesel for electric as an environmental improvement is a Volkswagen commitment that has taken a u-turn in respect to a seven-seater van based off a car platform.

After two years representing purely as a petrol hybrid choice, the front-drive Multivan 7 has now released with a compression powertrain that isn’t anything like as clean nor thrifty but is cheaper and almost as grunty.

The diesel is a latecomer, having been expected to include last year, to abet the plug-in hybrid versions that released in 2022. It was announced at that time.

Back then, the oiler looked set to be a quiet mover for VW Commercials, which runs as an adjunct to the passenger car division and represents the van models and the Amarok utility.

But perhaps it might now become the leading choice, as the environment for electric that seemed strong then has become very subdued now.

The attraction of the diesel also shows in sticker advantage, as it is a $88,000 choice - so, $6500 less than the entry PHEV, in a Family trim level most alike to the new type’s. Above those is a plusher PHEV Life, for $108,500.

The new entrant’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel outputs 110kW of power and 360Nm of torque, emits 160 grams of CO2 per 100 kilometres and drinks six litres’ per 100km optimally.

The PHEV’s 1.4-litre petrol-electric is, at its very best, able to consume just one litre of fuel per 100km and emit only 12g/km.

VW Commercials says the diesel means a less expensive Multivan option for families who require a seven-seat lifestyle van and seek technology, practicality and comfort.

As per the PHEVs, it has dual sliding doors and five of the seven seats are removable or configurable in a number of various arrangements. A multifunction table that can be located between the seats also features.

“This latest model offers everyday flexibility for large or extended families,” says Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ New Zealand general manager Kevin Richards.

The Multivan 7 has a five-star ANCAP safety rating and its driver assistance systems include City Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist.

“With the highest standard of safety and two drivetrains to choose from, the Multivan range is perfectly suited for Kiwis wanting to do more than just A to B travel”.