For 2003, the Volkswagen EuroVan remains the same - a 2.8-liter VR6 engine linked to a 4-speed automatic transmission powers all models - it has a unibody construction in steel with two bolt-on front fenders. Its engine is transversely mounted between the front wheels, thus more interior space and better handling. All of the brakes are disc brakes with ABS. We found that as the EuroVan cruised at 55-70 mph on the freeway it seemed to achieve its optimum ride, smooth, quiet, and steady.

The second and third rows of seats were a big hit with passengers, mostly due to the terrific headroom and overall roominess which easily accomodates child car seats. The addition of a driver-side sliding door would be helpful.

At night, the instrument panel is illuminated with comfortable cobalt blue - a vast improvement over the all red or all amber illumination found in some vehicles ( red dials may look good in print, but in real world driving they are ineffective and illogical ). In any case, if you are a camping person, stay tuned for the 2005 VW Microbus which you'll probably see first right here on your friendly neighborhood Auto Channel.

- Editor

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