Review: Volkswagen T5.I Multivan (2004-10)

Overview

Released in December 2004, the Volkswagen T5 Series I (T5.I) Multivan was a large people mover. Manufactured in Hanover, Germany, the VW T5 Multivan was initially available with either a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine or a 3.2-litre petrol unit, mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission (the 2.5 TDI and 3.2i variants, respectively). Although the majority of models were front-wheel drive, the 3.2i variants were available Volkswagen’s ‘4Motion’ all-wheel drive system. Furthermore, the Multivan was available in seven seat Comfortline and Highline editions (in a 2-2-3 configuration), or six seat Executive editions (2-2-2).

Engines

For the Multivan 2.5 TDI, the 2.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine had an aluminium alloy block and cylinder head, Bosch Pumpe D�se direct injection, a die-forged steel crankshaft, a variable geometry turbocharger with intercooler, a single overhead camshaft (gear-driven), two valves per cylinder, hydraulic bucket tappets, a compression ratio of 18.0:1 and a diesel particulate filter.

For the Multivan 3.2i, the 3.2-litre VR6 petrol engine had a grey cast iron block, a cast aluminium cylinder head, a die-forged steel crankshaft, electronic sequential indirect fuel injection, double overhead camshafts (chain-driven), low-friction roller finger cam followers, four valves per cylinder, variable intake and exhaust valve timing and a compression ratio of 11.3:1.

Dimensions and suspension

The Volkswagen T5 Multivan was 4890 mm long, 1904 mm wide, 1954 mm tall and had a 3000 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the Multivan had MacPherson strut front suspension and an independent rear axle with semi-trailing arms.

Volkswagen T5.I Multivan specifications
Variant	Drive	Edition	Years	Engine	Trans.	Peak power	Peak torque
2.5 TDI	FWD	Comfortline, Highline	2004-10	2.5-litre AXE turbo-diesel I5	6sp man., 6sp auto	128 kW at 3500 rpm	400 Nm at 2000 rpm
2.5 TDI	FWD	Executive	2004-06	2.5-litre AXE turbo-diesel I5	6sp man., 6sp auto	128 kW at 3500 rpm	400 Nm at 2000 rpm
3.2i	FWD	Comfortline, Highline	2004-10	3.2-litre BKK petrol V6	6sp auto	173 kW at 6200 rpm	315 Nm at 2950 rpm
	FWD	Executive	2004-06	3.2-litre BKK petrol V6	6sp auto	173 kW at 6200 rpm	315 Nm at 2950 rpm
	AWD	Comfortline, Highline	2004-08	3.2-litre BKK petrol V6	6sp man.	173 kW at 6200 rpm	315 Nm at 2950 rpm
	AWD	Executive	2004-06	3.2-litre BKK petrol V6	6sp man.	173 kW at 6200 rpm	315 Nm at 2950 rpm

4Motion all-wheel drive system

The Volkswagen Multivan’s ‘4Motion’ system utilised a second generation Haldex limited slip coupling with a mechanical hydraulic pump. In ordinary conditions, the system provided a 90:10 front:rear torque split. If traction was lost, however, the coupling would engage all-wheel drive and begin to transfer torque to the rear axle with one-quarter of a wheel’s rotation.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Volkswagen Multivan included dual front airbags, combination thorax and head protecting airbags for the front occupants, curtain airbags for the second and third row occupants, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

The VW Multivan was also fitted with electronic differential lock.

Features

Standard features for the Volkswagen Multivan Comfortline included 17-inch alloy wheels, an eight speaker sound system with CD player and a six-disc CD stacker, three-zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, 12 volt power outlets, a trip computer and immobiliser.

The Multivan Highline was further equipped with a DVD-based satellite navigation system, leather seats and front fog lights. Beyond this, the Executive added a power-operated sunroof, power sliding doors and assisted final-closing and latching for the side and rear doors.