Golf CDV squares up to Astravan
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• Volkswagen and Peugeot are both preparing new models to be launched next summer.
Volkswagen's contender, a van version of the MkIII Golf, is likely to arouse most particular interest as it is expected to be an estate, competing directly against the new Astravan (CM 1-7 Aug).
Engines are bigger throughout the MkIII range, promising better driveability, with the base petrol unit going from 1.3 to 1.4 litres and the diesel being boosted from 1.6 to 1.9 litres.
Peugeot, on the other hand, is sticking to the hatchback formula with a 106 van which will slot in beneath the 205.
Engines will range from 954 to 1,360cc. Peugeot says there will not be a diesel option in the UK although later on it could fit the 1.4-litre diesel from the Citroen AX. The diesel is based on the same block as the 1,360cc petrol engine.
Details of payload and volume have not yet been released but likely figures are 350/400kg and 1.0m3 respectively — less than the 205 which will continue in production.
Short-wheelbase 800kg and longwheelbase 1,200kg models expand the Transporter van range, along with a long-wheelbase chassis-cab. All models are available with a choice of engines.
The additional Transporters join the 1,000kg van which has been on sale since the spring.
Some models are being deleted, however.
There is no place for a petrol Golf van and still no 4x4 versions of the Taro pickup, which cannot be supplied in sufficient numbers, says Volkswagen.