Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia
In production since 2021, the Volkswagen T7 multipurpose vehicle is preparing for a refresh. Due in the latter half of 2026 as a '27 model, a prototype has been spotted testing in California specification.
Pictured with Ocean decals on the quarter panels, the camouflaged prototype is undergoing cold-weather testing in Sweden with completely new headlights that are slightly larger than the T7's outgoing units.
Following the camouflage pattern, a continuous light strip is also on the menu, and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles may further make a case for an illuminated Volkswagen logo. The heavily camouflaged front bumper also shows reworked intakes. On the other hand, thermal management is a must for any manufacturer reengineering Euro 6 powerplants to comply with Euro 7 regulations. Going into effect for all new type approvals on November 29, 2026, the latest standard includes very short trips and extreme cold.
Emissions are measured from the moment the key is turned, and many onboard sensors continuously estimate nitrogen oxides and particulate matter during every trip. Given the above, superior thermal management is one of the pillars of achieving Euro 7 compliance.
Volkswagen has also positioned the T7's turn signals higher up. While there are no visible changes at the rear of this prototype, the series-production model is expected to feature different taillights.
Criticized for shoddy infotainment, the T7 Multivan and plusher California should receive new MIB4 systems for '27. The MIB4 designation stands for Modular Infotainment Matrix 4, a standardized hardware and software architecture that includes an Intelligent Digital Assistant with ChatGPT integration, backlit sliders, menu shortcut bars and a more powerful chipset.
When it comes to engine choices, don't expect any big changes from the current 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TSI and 1.5 eHYBRID. Similarly, the manual transmission is unlikely to return to the Multivan and California because Volkswagen's dual-clutch transaxle is more efficient.
The 1.5 eHYBRID uses a six-speed transmission referred to as the DQ400e, whereas the 2.0 TSI and its diesel counterpart are paired with seven-speed units Volkswagen calls the DQ381. Both transmissions feature wet clutches for improved heat management, smoother low-speed gear shifts and increased torque capacity.
Capable of towing up to 3,500 lbs. as a plug-in hybrid or 4,400 lbs. without any sort of electric assistance, the T7 Multivan and California are available with 4MOTION all-wheel drive only if you pay extra for the plug-in hybrid.
The plug-in hybrid is the punchiest T7, producing a combined 242 hp. In all-electric mode, Volkswagen advertises driving ranges of 55 to 59 miles. With a bit of luck, the '27 facelift will crack into the 60s.
