>Volkswagen says the Microbus, due out late in 2004 as a 2005 model,
>will create a new segment - "a MPV (minivan) combining striking
>design and high functionality with the comfort of a limousine".

What garbage. The Japanese have had such for many years. And the new
7/8-seater Toyota Alphard, which Yoshi was so kind as to send me a
brochure of, is disgustingly luxurious. Obviously taking an
airliner's first-class cabin as inspiration, but with leather, LCD
monitors all over the place (but no manual trans??)... it appears to
be a mildly-restyled Estima (=Previa, Tarago) with panel and
side-glass differences, sold by the Vista dealer network.

>Making the announcement, Pischetsrieder said that "with the Microbus,
>a legend begun some 50 years ago when the first VW bus left the
>production line here is now returning to Hanover.

But it's not a REAL Microbus. The engine & drive are at the WRONG END!!!!!!!

>"The VW bus was never just a means of transport, it has always been
>an emotive cult object. The public's reaction at motor shows combined
>with the findings of market studies already show us that the Microbus
>design has a spontaneous appeal, and that the vehicle will follow in
>the footsteps of its successful predecessor."

It won't. Like other modern VWs, it's automotive whiteware.
--
Andrew Grebneff
165 Evans St, Dunedin 9001, New Zealand
<andrew.grebneff@stonebow.otago.ac.nz>
Seashell, Macintosh, VW/Toyota van nut