In today’s North America, Volkswagen is not really known for their Transporter van series, camper vans, or the Amarok truck the company manufactures but it’s a different story in Europe. Today, Volkswagen unveiled the next-generation T6 Transporter (van) as the Tristar Concept at the International Commercial Vehicle show (IAA) in Hannover, Germany. The T6 Transporter Tristar Concept is described by Volkswagen as a Swiss Army knife as the vehicle is capable of “extreme” off-road capabilities, offers flexible transport and storage, and is suitable mobile workshop or high-tech mobile office.
In my opinion, the design of the T6 Transporter Tristar Concept works pretty well. At first, it does look a bit unusual to see a combination of van and truck being implemented into one but then it starts to grows on you. The Tristar Concept measures in at 188.5-inches in length, 91.3-inches wide, and is 81.3-inches tall. This pickup truck features an extended cab, styling bar, a short wheelbase and is fitted with a permanent 4Motion four-wheel drive system with a mechanical rear axle differential lock and 1.18-inches of additional ground clearance.
What attracts me to this vehicle are the the sharp lines around the hood, stance of the vehicle, LED headlights, and the overall sleek look compared to the current VW Transporter line. The cabin of the Tristar Concept seems quite large and features a 20-inch Lenovo tablet table for video conferencing which gives the vehicle a “business environment” and high-tech feel. Both the driver’s seat and passenger seat can be turned and are able to slide. The truck even features an espresso machine which is sure to impress clients.
Cargo can either be transported on the flatbed or in a spacious and dust-proof watertight drawer found under the flatbed section. The Volkswagen T6 Transporter Tristar Concept is powered by a 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine which develops 201 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 332 lb-ft of torque at 1,400 rpm. Power is transferred via a seven-speed DSG transmission and capable of reaching 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in 10 seconds and capable of reaching a top speed of 185km/h (115mph).
Volkswagen T6 Transporter Tristar Concept Gallery
It’s too bad VW, Audi and Porsche are mechanically unreliable. I would love to own a car like this. I dare not take the risk, though. I wish Ford would do something this cool