What's this then?
This is the Volkswagen Tristar concept built to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the T3 Syncro.
Looks like a Transporter to me.
It sort of is. Despite being based on the underpinnings of the current T5 Transporter there is speculation that this concept previews the look of the T6 model - without the pick-up bed obviously.
So the T6 is going to be a rugged off-roader? Sweet.
No, as I said the official reason for the concept revealed at the IAA show in Hannover is to commemorate the rugged off-road T3 Syncro, but the Transporter that it may spawn will be more van-like without the oversized BF Goodrich tyres and will be available in versions other than the 201hp/450Nm 4Motion all-wheel drive model shown here.
Ok so tell me more about the Tristar then.
Volkswagen describes the concept as the 'Swiss army knife' of utility vehicles as not only can it do the rough and tumble but its pick-up bed is good for transporting up to a Euro pallet worth of goods. When the delivery is done you can sit back in the 'mobile office' inside the cabin that features swivel chairs, a 20-inch tablet built into a moveable table and even an espresso machine.
I'm sorry, a what?
Yeah the Tristar features a built in espresso machine, though we assume if such a car was ever to hit these shores that would be replaced with a kettle and some sort of cubby for PG Tips teabags.
Will the Tristar be built?
In its current format it is unlikely, but as part of an overall Transporter line-up a pick-up version could be offered. Guess we will just have to wait until the T6 is unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next year to find out.
Paul Healy - 23 Sep 2014