While Volkswagen has was working auto show audiences lately with its retro inspired Microbus concept, little does the show going public know that the true heir to the original minivan lives in the Euro Van. Powered by a 2.8 liter VR6 that puts out 201 bhp and 181 lb ft of torque, the front drive Euro Van has overcome previous criticism that it was under powered. The high tech VR6 engine pulls smoothly from a stop and provides excellent midrange passing power. The Euro Van comes equipped with a seamless 4 speed automatic transmission. The power assisted rack and pinion steering is spot on, with the right amount of weighting to give good on center feel and feedback at turn in. with 3.5 turns lock to lock and turning circle of 43.3 ft, the Euro Van is highly maneuverable while offering 188.5 in. of overall length and a width of 72.4.in. The steering position provides a commanding view of the road, and through the Euro Van is tall at 76.4.in, it feels well grounded. This connected road feel comes from the fully independent suspension that uses front torsion bars and a rear trailing arm setup.
The 4 wheel disc brakes are equipped with ABS, and the Euro Van is the only minivan offered with traction and stability control as standard equipment. The of standard equipment is also crammed with such comfort and convenience items as automatic air conditioning, power door lock, an AM/FM 6 speakers stereo/cassette, cruise control, one touch up/down power windows, power mirrors and heated windshields wiper nozzles.
