The 2001 Volkswagen Eurovan was first introduced in 1993 as a replacement to the rear-engine Vanagon. It featured a 109 horsepower, 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine up front, driving the front wheels with a standard five-speed manual transmission and an optional four-speed automatic made available.
Known in foreign markets under its original moniker Volkswagen Transporter T4, this commercial vehicle was the first by Volkswagen to have a front-mounted, water-cooled engine.
The Range
Body styles: minivan
Engines: 2.8-liter V-6
Transmissions: four-speed automatic
Models: Volkswagen Eurovan GLS, Volkswagen Eurovan MV
What's New
The 2001 Volkswagen Eurovan gets plenty of upgrades, specifically more engine power due to a new multivalve cylinder head and other engine modifications. The 2.8-liter, V-6 engine bounds way ahead from its previous 140 horsepower to a stunning 201 hp. There’s also been some tweaking done to the electronic stability system that automatically applies the brakes and reduces engine power when needed to minimize skidding in turns. It gets some single seats for the second row, standard fog lights, and a new premium onboard sound system.
Exterior
The 2001 Volkswagen Eurovan’s big, boxy, and stout exterior seems to sum up the appearance best. With a wheelbase of 115 inches, it measures 76 inches tall, 72 inches wide, and 188 inches long. Its ground clearance is seven inches, and its curb weight comes in at 4300 pounds. Color choices are decent, and it features a side sliding door and pop-up roof that’s standard on the GLS and optional on the MV.
Interior
The 2001 VW Eurovan GLS get seating for seven, one-touch power windows, central remote door locks, plenty of cup holders, tinted glass, cruise control, a pollen/dust filter, and an AM/FM stereo with six-speakers. Options include leather trim and heated front seats. Meanwhile, the MV nabs consumers a third row of seats that folds into a bed, a small refrigerator, a pair of swiveling bucket captain's chairs, side sliding windows with screens, an additional battery, gas stove, and a sink.
Performance & Handling
The 2001 Volkswagen Eurovan receives a new-and-improved 24-valve, V-6 engine and an impressive power-boost that gains 61 horsepower for a total output of 201. Acceleration is vigorous from a standstill, and the new engine means more gusto and sturdier handling, which is especially welcomed in such a large vehicle that’s quite top-heavy. All-in-all a surprisingly confident, controlled road ride.
Safety
The 2001 VW Eurovan provides standard features that include all-wheel anti-lock brakes, stability/traction control, front/rear headrest, child seat anchors, fog lights, and electronic brake force distribution.
EPA Fuel Economy
Volkswagen Eurovan: 15/18 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Second and third row seats are very roomy
- Good brakes/steering capabilities
- Lots of headroom
- Affordable price tag
You Won't Like
- Poor gas mileage
- Outdated cabin design
- No airbags
- Produces a surprising amount of wind noise on the road
Sum Up
Simply doesn’t measure up to what the competition offers.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Honda Odyssey
- Toyota Sienna
- Nissan Quest
- Mazda MVP
- Chrysler Town & Country