The Caravelle's four-speed automatic transmission has a dynamic shift programme "thinking" feature which adapts the gear's shifting patterns according to the driver's driving characteristics

The Caravelle offers seating for eight full-sized adults

Even with the seats occupied, there is still room for two cubic metres of luggage space

VW claims the rear-most passengers have the same amount of crash-protection as those at the front, due to safety crush zones

Caravelle's new "Plus" front axle is shared with the Mk3 Golf VR6

An electronic differential lock is designed to give maximum traction in difficult conditions

Latest fifth-generation Bosch ABS brakes are used

New engine mounts and sound-proofing materials enhance Caravelle's refinement over its Transporter sister model

Impact-absorbing bumpers bounce back into shape after minor collisions

The interior features new cloth cord upholstery, deep-pile carpet and new side trim panels

The eight full-size adult seats can be removed or folded to give a maximum of 5.4 cubic metres of interior space

Alloy wheels and colour-matched bumpers are visual cues to exterior differences between Caravelle and Transporter

The side panels are torsionally stiffened and reinforced

Impact-absorbing "Y" frames at the front are a safety feature

Top speed for front-wheel drive Caravelle in automatic form is 157km/h