VW carriers given a bright new look.

FIRST details of the new Volkswagen Caravelle people carrier and California campervan have been released ahead of their world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.

No other manufacturer can compete with Volkswagen's rich heritage of iconic people carriers and campervans, and the enhancements to the latest generation of these models offer the latest technology, comfort and safety features, with lower emissions and improved fuel economy by about ten per cent.

The new models stand out with changes to the external design. These include new rear light clusters, chrome side trims, more aerodynamic door mirrors and a new front using the latest Volkswagen passenger car design for the grille and headlights seen most recently in the new Polo and Golf.

Other new features carried over from Volkswagen's latest passenger cars include comfort and safety items such as three-spoke steering wheels, stylish new instruments, a recommended gear shift display, a USB 'Mediain' interface to connect external devices, and the latest audio and integrated, touchscreen, hard-drive navigation systems.

A new generation ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) with hill-start assist and an emergency brake light function are also introduced across the range, while other new features now available include Volkswagen's Side Assist lane-change system, first seen in the Touareg, which warns the driver of anything in the vehicle's blind spot, and a new TMD (Tyre Monitor Display) to alert the driver to any decrease in tyre pressures.

Refinement is also improved thanks to a new range of four quieter, more economical 2.0-litre fourcylinder common rail TDI engines. These offer power outputs of 84 PS, 102 PS, 140 PS and 180 PS, and all meet the latest Euro V emissions standard.

The new models also benefit from the introduction of Volkswagen's sevenspeed DSG automatic transmission, which will also be available later in 2010 with the 4MOTION all-wheeldrive system with fourthgeneration Haldex coupling for the first time (on selected models).

Prices and specifications for the new Caravelle and California will be released closer to launch. The mod-elwill arrive in selected Volkswagen van centres from January. All Volkswagen van centre locations are available at www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk.

UP TO pounds 34 CASHBACK on car insurance with www.mailcashback.com

CAPTION(S):

Standing out: VW has improved fuel economy by ten per cent and jazzed up the design on its Caravelle (above) and California ranges, due to be launched early next year.