We usually don’t take notice of the IAA commercial vehicle show in Hanover. However, when a concept is unveiled that would appeal to South Africans’ love for the Kombi, it is a different matter.
Called the Tristar, this Volkswagen product is based on the Transporter that forms part of VWSA’s local model range. Featuring all-wheel drive, this concept was built to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the first Syncro concept.
It features a cab-and-half design with a loading bay at the back. Looking at the exterior design, it is quite clear that Volkswagen has given at some extra masculinity to suit its off-road credentials.
The ride height has been increased by 30 mm, while the wheels are covered in off-road tyres.
If you expected a rugged, army-style interior, you would be surprised to find a very luxurious cabin. The interior features leather trim, an infotainment system as well as all the buttons for the 4×4 system and diff-lock settings.
The driver’s seat can also swivel to face the passenger seat while the pop-out table is perfect for a dinner table. The latter forms of the 20-inch tablet used for video conferencing. The cherry on the cake is surely the built-in coffee machine behind the front seats.
Under the short nose of the Volkswagen Tristar is a 2,0-litre turbodiesel engine developing 150 kW and 450 N.m (a future engine for the Amarok?). The seven-speed DSG transmission sends torque to all four wheels via the 4Motion system. The claimed 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 10 seconds before it will top out at 185 km/h.
