 |
| A pickup version could help Volkswagen get back into the hotly contested light truck category. (Photo: Volkswagen) |
So when can you expect to see a new Microbus rolling through your neighborhood? In June of last year Volkswagen AG announced a production version would be available in 2005. It can only be assumed that the Hanover built van will be a 2006 model. VW did mention that they expect to manufacturer as many as 80,000 units per year, but up to 120,000 vans can be assembled if needed. Either way the projected figures are much improved over the best sales year of the three generations of vans that spanned from 1950 to 1992, peaking at 66,000 units in 1970.
So lovers of the retro movement can rejoice while those who want to leave the acid tripping "make love not war" generation in their collective rearview mirrors will be haunted once again.
Specifications:
- Body Type: 5-door minivan, unibody
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Engine: 231-hp, 236 lb-ft, 3.2-L, 24-valve DOHC V6
- Transmission: 5-spd auto with manual mode
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS with EDS
- Curb Weight: N/A
- Seating Capacity: 7
- Future Competitors: Chevrolet Venture, Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, Ford Freestar, Honda Odyssey, Kia Sedona, Mazda MPV, Nissan Quest, Pontiac Montana, Toyota Sienna
- Web Site: www.vw.com (Canadian specs and prices are featured)
