VW Multivan Hybrid : Which Reigns?

Gas-guzzling family cars make less sense as costs continue to rise. More families now prefer hybrid MPVs that combine spacious interiors with better fuel economy. The VW Multivan Hybrid and Ford Tourneo have emerged as two impressive options in this segment. Source
Volkswagen's bold move into the hybrid van segment shows in their Multivan Hybrid, which carries their trademark quality forward. The Ford Tourneo stands strong as a competitor and delivers an impressive blend of practicality and efficiency.
Our team tested both these hybrid MPVs extensively in real-life conditions. The results from daily school runs to weekend adventures will help you choose the right vehicle that deserves your money. See all VW Multivan Hybrid

Hybrid Powertrains Compared VW Multivan Hybrid

Our extensive testing of both hybrid powertrains revealed fascinating differences. Let's take a closer look at their unique characteristics. See VW Multivan Lease

Electric Range and Charging Capabilities

The VW Multivan eHybrid pairs a 1.4 TSI engine with an electric motor to produce a combined output of 218 PS. The Ford Tourneo PHEV generates a total of 233hp. Both vehicles show similar electric-only driving capabilities - the Multivan runs up to 30 miles on pure electric power, while the Tourneo stretches to 33 miles. See all New VW Multivan
Charging capabilities:

• VW Multivan: 3.6 kW charging takes around 3 hours 36 minutes with a wallbox

 

• Ford Tourneo: 2 hours 45 minutes with a commercial Type-2 charger, or 4 hours 20 minutes on domestic supply

Ground Fuel Economy

Our tests showed actual figures differed from manufacturer claims. The Multivan eHybrid reached about 22 miles of pure electric range during city driving and delivered 32mpg with a depleted battery. The Tourneo PHEV achieved roughly 20 miles of electric range under normal conditions, with overall efficiency hitting 25.8mpg in mixed driving.

Performance and Driving Experience

The VW Multivan hybrid provides a smooth, refined driving experience. The powertrain naturally switches between electric and petrol modes. The Ford Tourneo's civilised nature impressed us - its hybrid system runs with remarkable refinement, especially around town.
The Tourneo stands out by combining car-like handling with van practicality. Quick steering and good body control make it exceptional. The Multivan counters these strengths with swift acceleration. Its combined power output makes it a capable motorway cruiser.

Space and Practicality VW Multivan Hybrid

Our weeks-long experience with both vehicles revealed that their space and practicality features make them stand out from regular family cars. These hybrid vans pack some impressive versatility that's worth exploring. Buy VW Multivan

Seating Configurations and Flexibility

The VW Multivan hybrid delivers exceptional versatility through its modular seating system. The rear five seats move and detach based on your needs, and the second row can face backward to create a meeting-style setup. The innovative multi-function table slides smoothly between seating rows and doubles as a centre console.
The Ford Tourneo responds with a flexible setup that accommodates up to 8 passengers. Its track-based seating system enables several arrangements:

• Conference-style seating configurations

 

• Fully removable rear seats

 

• Independent sliding capability for each seat

Cargo Space Comparison VW Multivan Hybrid

Both vehicles boast impressive cargo capacity numbers. The VW Multivan starts with 469 litres behind the third row and expands to 1,844 litres once you remove the rear seats. The full cargo capacity reaches an impressive 3,672 litres.
The Ford Tourneo leads the space race with a massive 5,472 litres of luggage space. This extra room proved extremely useful during our family trip testing.

Access and Loading Features

These vans excel at accessibility. The Multivan comes with easy-open side doors and a tailgate, while staying under 2 metres tall for standard parking garages. The Ford Tourneo matches these features with power-operated sliding doors on both sides, and its lower step-in height makes entry effortless. The hands-free operation, which activates when you kick near the front wheel, are a great way to get inside when your hands are full.

Comfort and Technology VW Multivan Hybrid

These vehicles show clear differences in their comfort and technology approaches. Our daily testing reveals distinct characteristics that set them apart.

Interior Quality and Features

The VW Multivan's cabin stands out with its smart design. The Style trim seats come with microfleece material and electric lumbar support as standard. The dashboard has hard plastics, yet its varied textures create a premium feel. The Ford Tourneo shows sturdy construction with simple materials. Even the Dacia Jogger's cloth and satin chrome elements offer more premium touches.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Both vehicles pack impressive tech features with unique approaches:

• VW Multivan:
  
  
  • 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  
  
  • Digital driver display as standard
  
  
  • Optional 840-watt Harman Kardon system with 13 speakers
  
  
  

The Ford Tourneo comes with a 13-inch touchscreen that features SYNC 4. We found its conversational voice commands easy to use. The Multivan's touch-sensitive climate controls lack illumination, which makes nighttime adjustments difficult.

Driver Assistance Systems VW Multivan Hybrid

Both vehicles offer detailed safety features. The Multivan earned a five-star Euro NCAP rating and includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assistance, and road sign recognition. The Tourneo's driver alert system and pre-collision assist technology proved effective. The Multivan's Style trim includes matrix LED headlights that adapt to avoid blinding other drivers - a feature the Tourneo lacks.

Ownership Costs VW Multivan Hybrid

Our long-term testing of hybrid MPVs has revealed some fascinating financial insights. Here's what you need to think over before making your choice.

Purchase Price and Equipment Levels

The VW Multivan hybrid's base Life trim starts at £48,375, while the Style trim costs over £10,000 more. The Style trim gives you the following premium features:

• Matrix LED headlights and navigation

 

• Heated front seats and steering wheel

 

• Electric sliding doors and tailgate

Running Costs and Efficiency

Our ground testing showed different numbers from what manufacturers claim. The Multivan eHybrid gave us 32mpg with a depleted battery. The charging costs stay reasonable - a wallbox takes just 3 hours 36 minutes.
The Ford Tourneo needs more maintenance money, with full service costs of £202.89 compared to VW's standard rates. The Multivan's hybrid system works best in city driving where it runs on electric power for longer periods.

Residual Values and Maintenance VW Multivan Hybrid

The sort of thing I love about the VW Multivan is its strong resale value - it keeps 62.1% of its worth after three years and 36,000 miles. You can expect to get back £31,650, making it one of the best value-holders in its class.
Volkswagen's three-year/60,000-mile warranty does the job but isn't the best in class. Both vehicles have reasonable insurance costs, with the Multivan ranging between groups 31E and 34E. The Multivan's running costs stay manageable thanks to its efficient hybrid system and solid build quality.

Conclusion VW Multivan Hybrid

These two hybrid MPVs offer compelling options for families who need efficient, spacious transport. The VW Multivan excels with exceptional build quality, advanced tech features, and a strong 62.1% value retention after three years. Our extensive testing revealed the Multivan's refined driving experience and flexible seating configurations.
Ford's Tourneo delivers more cargo space and matches the electric range expectations. However, its interior materials don't match the Multivan's premium quality. The user-friendly SYNC 4 system and convenient sliding doors make the Tourneo an excellent choice, especially when you have a larger family that needs maximum space.
The VW Multivan proved to be our preferred choice after weeks of thorough testing. This premium MPV combines efficiency and comfort with strong resale value that justifies its higher price tag. Quality family transport and driving enjoyment come together perfectly in the Multivan.

FAQs VW Multivan Hybrid

Q1. What is the real-world fuel economy of the VW Multivan Hybrid? In real-world conditions, the VW Multivan Hybrid achieves around 32mpg with a depleted battery. When utilising its electric capabilities, especially in urban environments, it can be significantly more efficient.
Q2. How does the VW Multivan differ from the Volkswagen Transporter? The VW Multivan is a front-wheel drive vehicle designed for passenger comfort, featuring a modular seating system and advanced technology. It comes standard with an automatic transmission, whereas the Transporter, primarily a commercial vehicle, offers rear-wheel drive and manual transmission options.
Q3. What is the electric range of the Ford Tourneo Hybrid? The Ford Tourneo Hybrid promises up to 33 miles of pure electric range. However, in real-world testing, it typically achieves about 20 miles of electric-only driving.
Q4. How flexible is the seating in the VW Multivan Hybrid? The VW Multivan Hybrid offers impressive versatility with its modular seating system. The rear five seats can be moved and removed, and the second row can be fixed in a rear-facing position. It also features an innovative multi-function table that can slide between seating rows.
Q5. Which hybrid MPV offers better value retention? The VW Multivan Hybrid demonstrates excellent value retention, maintaining 62.1% of its value after three years and 36,000 miles. This makes it one of the slowest-depreciating vehicles in its class, with a projected resale value of £31,650 after this period.