Volkswagen EuroVan

Volkswagen EuroVan Models

Two standard-wheelbase Volkswagen EuroVan models are available: the GLS and Multivan or MV.

The primary difference between the GLS and MV models is their seating arrangements. EuroVan GLS contains traditional forward-facing center and rear seats, with last year's optional individual seats for the second row made standard this year. The MV replaces the second-row bench with a pair of rear-facing seats -- positioned back-to-back with the front seats.

In addition to the GLS and MV models, Volkswagen offers a Winnebago Camper model with a longer wheelbase (by 15.7 inches). It's just the thing for that big trip to Yellowstone. It can be outfitted with a pop-up roof, full-swiveling captain's chairs, two-burner LP gas stove, refrigerator and other amenities.

A Weekender Package available on the MV comes with a pop-up canopy top and many of the other amenities of the Camper without the longer wheelbase.

Driving the Volkswagen EuroVan

Volkswagen's V6 is very smooth and delivers on its promise of torque. Snap the throttle open and the front end rises slightly while the EuroVan accelerates. With the added power, other minivan drivers will have to be alert to get the drop on the VW. No more excuses and rationalizations are needed for the EuroVan's acceleration capability. The V6-powered EuroVan easily cruises at or above any posted limit in the U.S. The cruise control works very well, maintaining a constant speed on Interstate grades.

"Tomb-like" would not describe the EuroVan on the Interstate. Wind, road, and engine noise all raise the interior sound level, though not objectionably so.

Despite its big flat sides, the EuroVan tracks like a bullet on the Interstates, even with crosswinds. It responds to the steering wheel with immediacy and precision. The natural expectation for this tall vehicle is for oodles of lean in hard cornering, but not so with the EuroVan. There is little tilt and no sway. It is remarkably confidence building, with a steady dose of understeer and feedback. You won't see any EuroVans at the local sports car races -- other than the one in the parking lot. But driving a EuroVan won't consign you to being a slow-moving roadblock on winding roads. Volkswagen has strengthened the body and the increased rigidity allows the fully independent suspension to do its job well. The 38.4-foot turning radius wasn't a problem in tight parking lots.

We found the Volkswagen EuroVan excellent in traffic in the city of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. When our speeds were reduced to a walking pace, the nicely tuned throttle response enabled us to do the stop-and-go smoothly enough to enjoy a scalding cup of coffee without worries. Yet we were able to move quickly when we had the chance. These opportunities were easily anticipated from our lofty perch in the driver's seat, giving us an uninterrupted view of the traffic jam extending off to the horizon. The brakes were easily up to the part in the harder stops.