What is "Caravel"? Volkswagen Caravel: specifications and reviews

What is "Caravel"? Everyone knows: the so-called high-speed sailboats of the times of great geographical discoveries. However, in 1990, in one of the European car showrooms, as part of the presentation of new models, a "microbus" car, the German concern Volkswagen, was introduced to the general public . A beautiful car with exquisite bodywork was named Caravelle. The history of the development of the new model is characterized by a gradual improvement of technical characteristics, but along with this the car was not modified in full understanding of this word. All the improvements were more of a cosmetic nature, although in a number of cases (as, for example, the adaptation of the car to the business category), the changes significantly improved the image of "Caravelle".

First generation

The model of the first generation "Caravel", the technical characteristics of which in many respects repeated the parameters of the rear-wheel drive minivans of that time, was produced in small series and enjoyed moderate demand for six years. The microbuses glittering with lacquer came off the assembly line, everything was on its way. However concern "Volkswagen" knowingly is one of the largest manufacturers of automobile technics in the world scale. In 1997, the release of the Caravel model, which was not always positive, was suspended, and the car fell into the hands of specialists in restyling. Constructive changes touched the individual elements of the body and the design of the front end. In general, modernization was superficial, but nevertheless "Caravel" was transformed, its rating has grown significantly.

Restyling in 1997

Alleged changes in the technical characteristics of the car were aimed at expanding the engine compartment to accommodate any engine brands from the Volkswagen family, including sports. To do this, the hood parameters were radically changed and the front suspension struts were shifted. Now "Caravel", reviews on which noticeably improved, was equipped with in-line 4- and 5-cylinder gasoline engines or a diesel engine with a turbo-supercharging capacity of 102 liters. With., Which accelerated the car to 160 km / hour. The engine of the "six", with the V-shaped arrangement of the cylinders, allowed to accelerate to 200 km / h, but this speed for the microbus did not make sense.

In addition to the new power plant, the "Caravelle", the characteristics of which have improved significantly by that time, received a softer front suspension, disc-ventilated brakes on all wheels, an efficient ABS system and four airbags, two front and two side airbags. Completing the "Volkswagen Caravel" significantly expanded, the basic set included electric drives of exterior mirrors and door glass, electric heated seats and rear windows, a heater with a timer and a quad-system audio. Privileged complete sets also received additions.

Advantages of the new salon

Salon "Caravelle" markedly ennobled, decorations began to be used more expensive, the seats were covered with high-quality velor, and the upholstery of the doors was a relief leatherette such as "jacquard". In the center of the salon a special module was put forward in the form of an oval table, indispensable for long voyages. In general, the saloon of the eight-seater minivan was comfortable, roomy, with a high degree of ergonomics.

Particularly worth noting is the ventilation system of the internal space "Caravelle" with a developed scheme of air ducts. A compact heat exchanger built-in under the torpedo provided air circulation in three modes: heating of air streams to 22, 27 degrees Celsius and normal room temperature. Air conditioning worked in conjunction with a heat exchanger, which was turned off in the summer. The control panel for ventilation and indoor climate was located on the center console, at the top, to the right of the driver.

The second generation

A new generation of "Caravelle" was introduced in 2002, with a radically modified front end, integrated bumpers in body color, updated optics, a 4-speed automatic transmission (replaced by a 5-speed manual), 4Motion all-wheel drive system and a two-layer Climatronic air conditioner. "Caravel" of the second generation was produced in a long - 5189 mm, and a short version - 4789 mm. The difference in the parameters of the wheelbase was 400 millimeters - 2920 and 3320. The cabin of the "long" car was designed for 9 seats.

What is "Caravel" from the point of view of businessmen

At the same time, in 2002, another modification of the minivan, "Caravel-business" was presented. The car was fully adapted for business trips with the appropriate functions. The car equipment included a stable Wi-Fi Internet, a mobile connection to two independent telephones, a remote fax machine, a TV, a CD player, a VCR, a bar and a refrigerator, under which was a small trash can. This model of "Caravelle" was distinguished by expensive interior trim, natural leather on the seats, soft fluorescent lighting, and excellent noise insulation. The engines for the business-class car were offered two options: a six-cylinder three-liter turbo diesel with a capacity of 150 liters. from. And a 204-horsepower gasoline engine.

What is "Caravel" from the point of view of security

The safety of the latest modifications of "Caravelle", both active and passive, is maintained at the highest level. First of all, the safety of the car at any speed provides a well-balanced undercarriage, front and rear suspension, equipped with effective stabilizers of lateral stability. Thus, the machine is provided with a reliable grip of the wheels with the roadway. Brake system "Caravelle" consists of a dual-circuit hydraulics, a brake force regulator, an anti-lock braking system ABS and brake discs on all wheels. Passive safety includes cushions and belts.

Today minivan "Caravel", customer reviews confirm this, is considered one of the best models in its class. Machine parameters are improving every year. This is the answer to the question: what is "Caravel"?

Owner feedback

"Caravel" - a car of universal purpose, spacious saloon accommodates from seven to nine people. And it's not for nothing that the car was chosen for modification in the category of "business class", with a wide application of communication equipment and special equipment. After the release in 2002 of a new model of the second generation, the demand for "Caravelle" increased sharply. Buyers note the new design advantages of the car, a high level of comfort and impressive driving performance. The acceleration of the car, with a relatively small fuel consumption, pleasantly surprises experienced users, and travel for many hundreds of miles pass unnoticed - passengers do not get tired thanks to the adjusted ergonomic parameters of the seats.