18 May 2001: Volkswagen is working on a new compact MPV aimed at taking on segment leaders Opel's Zafira and Renault's Scenic. Though only a 'mule' cobbled together from present Golf bodypanels has so far been seen in public, it could well be that the concept 'Microbus' shown at this year's US and European auto shows might be the styling basis.

The new vehicle is based on the Golf's next generation platform and will be introduced six months ahead of the hatchback's next incarnation, debuting at the Paris Motor Show in September.

The seven-seat configuration will include what the company says is 'an innovative' system for the rear pair which will not get in the way of luggage space. This is aimed clearly at the Zafira patented system.

Powerplant options so far mentioned indicate an upper market aim for the new vehicle, ranging from the 230bhp 3.2-litre V6, along with 4Motion AWD, down through the company's V5 and 1.8-litre T units. A new 'leanburn' engine will provide entry level power. There will also be TDs. TW