Review
VW Multivan with side wheelchair lift
We were introduced to the latest generation of the VW Multivan in a particularly accessible version. The test vehicle was equipped with a side wheelchair lift, making it best suited for active wheelchair users.
Spacious and practical
The Multivan is VW’s leisure monovolume and is now in its sixth generation. This spacious and practical car can accommodate up to 7 people as standard, divided over three rows (2/2/3). If you choose the version with a long wheelbase, you can transport a maximum of 8 people.
In terms of engines, you can choose a TSI petrol engine with a power of 150 hp or 204 hp. For diesel drivers, the Multivan is available with a TDI diesel engine with a power of 84 hp, 102 hp, 150 hp or 204 hp. Depending on the version, the Multivan can be equipped with a five- or six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. 4MOTION all-wheel drive is also optionally available on the Multivan.
For an entry-level model you should count on a budget of around 32,840 euros. For this you need a Multivan Blue & Cool 2.0 TDI with 84 hp. For a top model such as the Multivan Highline with 2.0 bi-TDI with 204 hp and a DSG, you must have a budget of at least 59,241 euros.
We were introduced to the new Multivan through a test drive with a Multivan Trendline 2.0 TDI with 150 hp and a DSG7.
Renovation
To make the Multivan accessible to active wheelchair users, the test vehicle was equipped with a side wheelchair lift and gas and brake controls on the steering wheel.
The lift of the type “AMF K90 active” is from the German manufacturer AMF-Bruns. This lift distinguishes itself from most other solutions due to its compact dimensions. This means that only 1 meter is needed next to the car to get in or out. Another advantage is that the lift disappears under the car. This means you don’t lose any space inside. The lift has a surface of 80 x 68 cm and a lifting capacity of 200 kg and can be easily operated via a control element with push buttons.
The lift is aimed more at a target group of active wheelchair users. The lift can be used completely autonomously without the intervention of third parties. On the other hand, the lift is less accessible with a classic or electric wheelchair due to its compact dimensions. An active wheelchair is therefore the best match for this type of lift. You should count on a budget of around 10,000 euros for the renovation.
If you enter the Multivan via the side lift, you can sit from the wheelchair into the driver’s seat. This is possible because you can rotate the driver’s seat. The test car was also equipped with gas and brake controls on the steering wheel with pedal protection from the manufacturer Guidosimplex. With this setup you can operate the Multivan entirely with your hands, including manoeuvring, accelerating and braking. The pedal guard ensures that your feet do not accidentally touch the pedals. However, you can also easily remove the pedal shield. This also allows you to drive this car in a classic way, useful when, for example, someone else in the family also drives the car. For this part of the renovation you need to have a budget of around 1,700 euros.
Conclusion
For us it was a first introduction to a car that was equipped with a side wheelchair lift and gas and brake controls on the steering wheel. The Multivan is a spacious, versatile and practical family car that you can adapt to your needs. The sofas that can be rotated and moved are a particular asset. The side wheelchair lift was user-friendly and conveniently disappears under the car so you don’t lose any space.
Johan De Haes
Test driver
