Below that familiar shape, there are new components.
The venerable Volkswagen T6 van is not well-known in North America. However, global markets are familiar with it by many nicknames. Although this particular model looks very similar to a 2018 model, sometimes it is best to hide them under your nose. Our photographer was attracted to the odd-looking fuel-door-shaped rectangular panel that covers the rear wheel well. The stickers also appeared on the window. The 2018 decal can be clearly seen, but if you look closely at the window, there is a hybrid sticker. Although it looks like a 2018 van, this van is actually a test mule for the next-generation T7 engine.
According to rumours, there will be major changes for the beloved Volkswagen van. The changes are due, considering that the T6 is a facelifted T5, but they won’t be limited to exterior modifications. All-new vans will use Volkswagen’s MQB platform, which will support many other vehicles in the range. Modular platforms are designed to accept transverse-mount engines. This means that the T7 will have front-wheel drive and be available with all-wheel drive like the current model.
The T7 will have a wider range of powertrains than the current T6. This includes gasoline, diesel, full electric, and hybrid models such as this van. The odd side panel could be a plug-in access port. If we look closely at the back, you can see the T7 underpinnings a little low. The downside to using an old body as a base for new powertrain designs is that things may not always fit.
Although this is still a very early stage in the T7’s development, it’s not too late. The new model will debut in 2020. We did see a mule in June, with slightly different proportions. However, it was still a T6-shaped vehicle. The new model will debut in 2020, so you can expect to see camouflaged VW vans soon.