The Volkswagen Transporter T5 range, introduced as the fifth generation of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles in 2002, replaced the T4 Transporter range from April 2003. The T5 range includes the popular people-mover models, Caravelle, and Multivan. While the T5 found success in key markets like Germany, the UK, Taiwan, Russia, France, Turkey, and Singapore, it was notably absent in the United States and Canada due to underwhelming sales of its predecessor, the T4-based Volkswagen EuroVan.

The T5 range brought a fresh design and updated features to the medium-sized light commercial vehicles segment. It offered various configurations to cater to cargo transportation as well as passenger transport needs. With its improved technology and reliability, the T5 range garnered a positive reception in its target markets.

To address the absence of the T5 in the US and Canadian markets, Volkswagen introduced the Routan, a minivan based on the Chrysler RT platform. This strategic move allowed Volkswagen to offer a competitive vehicle for North American consumers while leveraging an existing platform to reduce development costs.

Overall, the Volkswagen Transporter T5 range represented a significant advancement in the commercial vehicles segment, offering a blend of practicality, versatility, and modern design. Its success in key international markets highlighted Volkswagen’s ability to innovate and adapt to varying consumer preferences.

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