VW Revives a Decades-Old Name for the Multivan — But Not Everywhere

Volkswagen has rolled out a facelift for its T7 Multivan and California, introducing a raft of styling, tech, and cabin upgrades across the range.

The headline change is the revival of the historic Caravelle name in the UK, where it replaces the Multivan badge, while Germany retains the Multivan moniker.

The visual updates are most pronounced at the front, with larger LED headlights featuring a revised lighting signature, a cleaner bumper design, and higher-spec models gaining an illuminated strip connecting the lights across the front fascia.

Volkswagen claims the new headlights are not only sharper in appearance but also deliver brighter, more uniform illumination both straight ahead and in corners.

Inside, the cabin gets a full refresh: a redesigned dashboard with improved materials and decorative stitching, a free-standing 12.9-inch tablet-style infotainment display mounted atop the dash, and an upgraded Digital Cockpit with multiple layout options and greater customization.

The automatic transmission now uses a steering column-mounted selector, freeing up center console space.

Wireless smartphone charging is standard, with charging power significantly increased, and USB-C ports now deliver up to 60 W. Even the cupholders get ambient lighting.

The driver-assistance roster expands with the latest Travel Assist system, which can now recognize traffic lights and perform assisted lane changes on highways.

Powertrain choices remain unchanged: a 148 HP (150 PS) diesel and a 201 HP (204 PS) petrol engine at the entry level, while the top-spec eHybrid 4MOTION pairs a 242 HP (245 PS) 2.0-liter petrol engine with a 19.7 kWh battery pack and all-wheel drive.

Buyers can choose between long- and short-wheelbase versions, though the California camper variant is limited to the long wheelbase.

A new top-tier “Generation” special edition trim is available, featuring a two-tone Candy White and Sunset Red Metallic paint finish.