Review of Multiven T4

History of creation

Introduced in 1990, the T4 was the first Volkswagen van to be equipped with a front-mounted, water-cooled engine. Towards the end of the 70s, the German concern came up with the idea of ​​​​replacing the air-cooled, rear-engine T2 vans with a front-engined, water-cooled design. Thus, the introduction of a front-mounted unit layout was implemented in the T4.

After a slow start, the T4 Transporter has become a very popular model among Volkswagen fans, tradesmen, businessmen using it as a work van, and people looking for a truly multi-functional recreational vehicle.

Specifications

The Transporter T4 minibus can withstand most road irregularities without any problems. The car has good overall balance and is one of the best in its segment with top-notch features. Power steering is standard, making it easy to navigate narrow city streets.

Various power plants are available: petrol engines have 2.0, 2.5 and 2.8 liters, diesel engines - 1.9 and 2.4 liters. Diesel options are more economical. Turbocharged direct injection units are also available: a 2.5 liter TDI engine.

Transmission: four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission.

Technical characteristics are presented in the table

Technical characteristics of VW T6

Power unit

A potential buyer may think that in reality the Volkswagen T6 is not that new. However, there is no need to judge by appearance alone. The technical component has changed dramatically.

The engine compartment received two-liter EA288 Nutz power units, developing 84, 102, 150 and 204 horsepower. There is also a turbocharged petrol variation with a similar volume, which produces 150 or 204 horses.

All engines meet Euro-6 environmental standards and come standard with Start/Stop technology. Fuel consumption has been reduced by an average of 15 percent compared to the previous generation.

Transmission

The power plants were synchronized with a 5-speed manual transmission or with a 7-band DSG robotic gearbox.

Suspension

There is a full-fledged independent spring suspension, which makes driving more comfortable. More energy-intensive shock absorbers were installed.

Brake system

All wheels are equipped with disc brakes. The brakes were a pleasant surprise. Already the basic version includes not only ABS, but also the electronic stabilization system ESP.

Model range and modifications of Volkswagen Transporter T4

Constructed at the Transporter T4 specialist plant in Hannover (Germany), it was available in SWB (short wheelbase) or LWB (long wheelbase). The model range and modifications include the following options:

1. Panel Vans - no windows behind the C-pillar, one row of seats.
2. EuroVan – two side windows, sliding door.
3. Combi-Van – additional windows between B and C pillars, 2 rows of seats.
4. Caravelle – has 5, 7, 8, 9 seats.
5. Single Cab Pickup is a single-seat pickup truck with a cab based on the SWB chassis.
6. Double Cab Pickup - a pickup truck with a double cab based on the LWB chassis
7. Syncro 4×4 is a universal model, suitable for transporting passengers and cargo.

• 1990-1995: several model changes, a choice of petrol and diesel units were offered.
• 1996 – main reconstruction of the model. Changes include rear disc brakes, a one-piece rear bumper, and a 2.5-liter TDI engine.
• The Caravelle VR6 was introduced with a longer hood to accommodate the new engine.
• In the summer of 2003, production of the T4 was discontinued in Hannover to be replaced by the new generation T5.

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Competitors and similar models

T4 Multivan can be purchased for 300,000 – 750,000 rubles (the average price on Avito is around 500,000 rubles). For about the same you can get:

• Subaru Sambar I 0.7 AT;
• Subaru Stella I;
• Suzuki Spacia I;
• Chrysler Voyager IV;
• Citroen C4 Picasso I;
• Honda Mobilio I.

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How can these cars compete with the Multivan? Hard to tell. If you look at all the amenities, then only the younger Multivan can compete with the Multivan. The cars on the list can quite comfortably transport a group of people, but no more.

VW T4 configurations

The design of the T4 is quite practical, its bulky body can accommodate up to 5.4 cubic meters of cargo. Load capacity 800-1200 kg, total vehicle weight 2.5-2.8 tons. Access to the cargo area is easy thanks to sliding side doors and two wide-opening rear doors. The loading height is only 51.5 cm. The dashboard has a minimalist style, the center console is not cluttered.

The basic equipment includes the following:

1. Five-speed manual transmission, four-speed automatic;
2. Transmission The internal combustion engine drives the front wheels;
3. Front triangular suspension, rear independent, leaf spring suspension;
4. Assistive systems ABS (anti-lock braking system);
5. Power steering, hydraulic steering;
6. Tire size 215/60 R16 H, wheel size R16.

The van is equipped with five cylinders, and since 1995 power steering has been included as standard. In addition to the typical VW T4 Transporter model, a recreational vehicle was produced as an MPV in three versions, as well as a motorhome that can be used as a regular transport, for mini-offices, camping, and a family car.

The cargo van, which has become a standard in the field of light-duty cargo transportation, has retained all the best family features. The optimal configuration of the cargo space, the vertical walls of the body, equipment for securing cargo - these elements have remained unchanged.

In the new generation, the number of modifications has been expanded, and now cargo vans are offered in the following 5 options: Short wheelbase (3000 mm) with a normal roof. Cargo volume: 5.8 cu. m. Height (inside): 1410 mm Length (floor): 2543 mm.

Short wheelbase (3000 mm) with medium roof Cargo volume: 6.7 cu. m. Height (inside): 1626 mm Length (floor): 2543 mm. Long wheelbase (3400 mm) with normal roof. Cargo volume: 6.7 cu. m. Height (inside): 1410 mm Length (floor): 2943 mm. Long wheelbase (3400 mm) with medium roof. Cargo volume: 7.8 cu. m. Height (inside): 1626 mm Length (floor): 2943 mm. Long wheelbase (3400 mm) with high roof. Cargo volume: 9.3 cu. m. Height (inside): 1925 mm Length (floor): 2943 mm.

Self-supporting all-steel partially galvanized body. Base frame consisting of spars and traverses.

Two-door cab Sliding cargo door, right Hidden sliding door track Thermal insulating glazing. Full metal rear hinged door. Bumpers are dark gray Exterior mirrors: left - aspherical, right - convex Lockable fuel tank cap (tank capacity 80 l.) Towing eyelets: front screw-in, rear - rigidly fixed to the body

Suspension Independent suspension Front suspension - MacPherson struts; rear - on shortened coil springs Telescopic shock absorbers.

Brakes Hydraulic brake system. Brakes - ventilated discs Anti-lock braking system (ABS)

Steering Power steering. Safety steering column, adjustable for reach and tilt.

Wheels and tires Steel wheels 6.5 x 16. Steel wheels 7J x 17 - with engine 3.2 V6 170 kW Tires 205/65R16 - with engines 63 kW, 77 kW, 85 kW Tires 215/65R16 - with engines 96 kW, 128 kW Tires 235/55 R17 - with engine 173 kW

Safety Gray tinting of the upper part of the windshield Halogen headlights Reversing lights (2 pcs.) Single-tone horn Swivel-and-fold sunshields (2 pcs.) Height-adjustable headrests 3-point automatic diagonal lap belts in the cab (two outermost — with vertical adjustment) Emergency pretensioners of two (outer) seat belts in the cabin Lifting loops for securing cargo: 6 pcs. — short-wheelbase, 8 pcs. -in the long-wheelbase version Driver airbag Anti-lock braking system (ABS) Electronic differential lock (EDS) Anti-traction system (ASR)

Advantages and disadvantages

The Transporter T4 has a clean, purposeful design. The advantages include:

• Wide range of interior finishing options with curtains and seats that convert into a bed;
• Long wheelbase;
• Five-cylinder TDI diesel engine offering up to 56km/h on the 4.5L, a reasonable 144km/h;
• Panoramic view, all obstacles and dangers ahead are visible;
• For the 2.5TDI engine, you can perform chip tuning to improve performance.
• The roof of the body is waterproof, sound insulation and thermal insulation are at the highest level.

Many T4 owners note such disadvantages as:

• It is impossible to stand up straight in the van; when cooking or washing dishes, it is not very convenient;
• Over time, rust forms and paint defects appear;
• The VR6 powerplant consumes too much fuel;

Advantages and disadvantages of cars

Pros:

• Passenger comfort is unrivaled.
• Tenacious and hardy.
• Diesel engines consume little fuel.

Minuses:

• It will be uncomfortable for a tall driver.
• Expensive repairs.
• They have been out of production for a long time, it is difficult to find a “living” car.
• The automatic transmission consumes quite a lot of fuel, because it has 4 speeds.

Typical malfunctions and “sores” of cars

After many years of use, various problems may appear, such as:

• Worn left rear wheel. If a problem occurs, a tire with a tread of less than 1.6 mm should be replaced.
• There is noise from the rear, especially when driving on uneven roads. Most likely, this is a broken rear suspension spring that needs to be replaced.
• Gear Shifting Problems – Difficulty shifting into gears. This is quite common across the Caravelle range. The problem is caused by the gear train. In this case, you will have to adjust the levers and the corresponding gear rod.
• A decrease in power when going uphill is a problem with the air flow meter. The air flow meter will need to be replaced to resolve the problem. Buying a new part can be expensive, but you can save money on a quality used part.
• Side sliding door failure. The fault is caused by the door runners. You can adjust the slides to solve the problem, but if that doesn't work, you'll have to replace the door slides.

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FAQ

1. How many people can fit in a minibus?

The front cabin easily seats 3 people.

2. How reliable is the T4 Conveyor?

The vehicle has a reputation for being one of the most reliable vans on the road.

3. Which of the proposed engines is better?

In factory condition, the 2.5L unit is the best of all those offered.

4. What dimensions does the minibus have?

• Wheelbase is 2920 mm SWB, 3320 mm LWB;
• Length 4,707 mm SWB, 5,107 mm LWB;
• Width 1840 mm, height 1940 mm standard roof, 2430 mm high roof.

5. How much does the Volkswagen T4 weigh?

The payload is 800-1200 kg, depending on the modification. The gross weight of the vehicle is 2.5-2.8 tons.

6. Where is the engine code?

The engine number is indicated on the front of the cylinder block. On a gasoline engine, the number is located below the two spark plugs. The engine number is also located on the timing belt cover and on the nameplate on the door pillar.

7. Where is the chassis number?

Chassis numbers or VIN can be found on the outside of the dashboard.