We’ve noticed a rather interesting trend amongst concept cars that have debuted at Frankfurt this year, and their theme has been geared more toward lifestyle mobility and the case is apparent here with Volkswagen’s 21st century iteration of the iconic people carrier – the Kombi van.
The Kombi was more than just a utilitarian means of getting around but rather it was an embodiment of the lifestyle people enjoyed back in the day. It could do just about anything. The concept of the new limited-edition Multivan PanAmericana not only unites both the spirit of globetrotting and off-roading, but with this concept these worlds can be conquered too.
The project was spearheaded by specialists from Volkswagen’s Commercial Vehicles division. The creators envisioned the ability to conveniently and safely transport the owner’s valuable motorcycle with an electrically assisted loading and unloading tailgate. The PanAmericana concept unites the comfort of the Multivan with the off-road capabilities of an SUV. Above all, it does what it does best: serving as a magnificent transport vehicle for cargo loads of nearly any type or size.
In order to achieve this, the PanAmericana concept comes loaded with the brand’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. Powering the concept is the (now controversial) 2.0-litre TDI mill producing 201 hp and 450 Nm of torque at 1,400 to 2,000 rpm from the run-of-the-mill Multivan. The clean-burning power is channeled out via the marque’s signature seven-speed DSG transmission.
Aside from decked in Oryx White, the PanAmericana concept can be identified from a host of badges pinned to the radiator grille, the tail gate and B-pillars. The styling line above the side sill in Flash Red and black give it away as well. Wheel arch mouldings and flared side sills underscore the concept’s sporty image, while also visible from the front is the sturdy lightweight metal underbelly guard. Could this really be the 21st century Kombi van? We’d love for it to come true!
IMAGE GALLERY
