on 2/4/03 11:55 AM, Marc Perdue at marcperdue@ADELPHIA.NET wrote:

> I'm confused.  Perhaps someone can clarify this issue for me.  VW is
> introducing the T5, essentially a Eurovan, in March.  The last I heard, there
> was also talk of a new Microbus to be introduced for the 2005 model year.  Is
> the Microbus still going to go into
> production?  If so, why would they introduce the T5 in March, presumably a
> 2003.5 or 2004 model year?
>
> I was hoping they would introduce the Microbus and that there would be a full
> camper version available.  I don't care for the Eurovans and figure I'll be
> about ready for a new camper by 2005-2006 . . .
>
> Marc Perdue
>

While the new T5 looks a lot like the old EuroVan, it is quite different.

It is built on a new platform with fully independent suspension, and is a
little bit wider.

My guess is the Microbus we get will be very close to the T5.  I discussed
this with a rep from VW last fall, our Microbus will have a completely
different body, but still stuck on the T5 platform.  I don't think I will
quite believe this until I see it.

There never was a Vanagon or EuroVan sold in Europe.  They were called
Transporter or Carvelle, and still referred to as a "Bus".  I had guessed we
would get the same T5 badged as the Microbus.

If VW wants to sell a whole bunch of Microbuses here, they need to offer a
wide range of models.  A base model manual shift TDI with rubber floors and
having the same rail options the T4 has in Germany to allow for a variety of
seating and rack options may even compete with the Element.

-- Steve Lashley
SKL Enterprises Inc.
http://EuroCampers.com
PO Box 401
7A Industrial Drive
Pacific MO 63069
636-271-0567 voice
636-257-2067 fax