The ultra-refined Volkswagen Caravelle enjoyed quite a comprehensive facelift recently and is jam-packed with features that every member of the family will love. Get ready to be wowed by a Caravelle that is fit for whatever 2021 can throw at it.
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Photo GridThe VW Caravelle is now in its sixth-generation and is one of the most luxurious ways to travel by road. Taking one for a test drive soon? Here are just five of the many features you can look forward to!
The entire T6 range of models boast reconfigured infotainment systems that bring them in line with non-commercial vehicles such as the glamorous new T-Roc, Tiguan and Touareg. All T6.1 models are fitted with VW's Composition Colour radio system, while the Caravelle and California get the top-spec Discover Pro Media system with sat-nav as standard. The Kombi Trendline Plus buyer can select this as an option.
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Should you be driving a Caravelle Highline or California, you'll immediately notice the lack of the traditional instrument cluster (with the odometer and rev counter), and a 10.25-inch digital interface instead. You also have the option of changing your view via the redesigned steering wheel. You can select the Sat-nav view, for example, so you don't have to glance at the touchscreen while you drive. Digital (on-screen) dials can be selected as well, or a view that displays entertainment functions.
The Caravelle is not small, and these systems are extremely helpful when you're driving on the freeway, trying to reverse with a trailer, or trying to fit into a parking spot in town. Trailer Assist is a must-have if you tow a trailer or caravan, and is "designed to make it easier to reverse in a straight line over relatively long surfaces", says VW. These features are standard on the T6.1 Caravelle and California.
Needless to say, parking a vehicle of this stature isn't a walk in the park, but Park Assist will take care of finding the perfectly-sized spot and guiding the van into it all on its own! The latest T6 vehicles also have enhanced rear-view camera functionality.
Driving a voluminous vehicle like the Caravelle is not without its challenges, unless it has cameras and sensors that prevent bumps, fender benders and bigger accidents. Rear Traffic Alert will prevent you from reversing into oncoming traffic, whether it's a cyclist or pedestrian or any other moving object or vehicle.
"Using the radar sensors in the rear, the system recognises not only stationary or moving vehicles directly behind it, but also any that might be approaching at 180 degrees from the side which would be near-impossible for the driver to spot. If there is a risk of collision, the system produces a visual alert and an audible warning. If the driver or other road user do not take action to avert the danger, Rear Traffic Alert automatically applies the brakes," says VW.
VW's Manoeuvre braking function also helps ease you in and out of parking spaces (or anywhere, for that matter) by applying the brakes if you're in danger of damaging the Caravelle's sheetmetal. This is only on vehicles with Park Assist as well as Park Distance Control. Side protection (on the Caravelle and California) provides protection by means of 6 ultrasound sensors around the vehicle.
Due to the large, flat surfaces of the Caravelle's bodywork, it is easily affected by crosswinds, therefore VW has added Crosswind Assist to ensure the vehicle stays stable and on track. If you have picked a windy day for your test drive, we're quite sure that you will notice how unaffected the vehicle feels.
Practicality has always been one of the Caravelle's strong points, but the 2021 model takes it to a whole new level. The new driver 'cockpit' has an additional shelf directly in front of the driver. Inductive charging can be specified if you prefer going wireless, and the tray is larger to fit your phone and other small items. There is an abundance of storage binnacles in the new Caravelle to keep your valuables safe and organised.
But as they say... that's not all! The new Caravelle and California have an astounding amount of standard features, as we're sure the salesperson at the dealership will point out.
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Ané AlbertseAné was bitten by the motoring bug at a very young age. Her mom recalls her sitting in her stroller as a 3-year old, naming every car that came past. She was creating content for various publications within Media24 when AutoTrader nabbed her for good, and is one of the longest-standing members of the AutoTrader team. She prefers dirt roads to tar and SUVs/bakkies to sports cars, but her greatest passion is helping people find the perfect car for their budget, lifestyle, and personality.View News & Reviews
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