In the mid-late 70s Volkswagen began testing 4WD Kombi prototypes in Germany based on the then current Type 2 Bay Window model. 4WD technology was nothing new for the Wolfsburg company having already developed the Type 86 Kommanderwagen and Type 128 Schwimmwagens during WWII, but this would be their first attempt at a commercially viable production version. The first 4WD prototype was completed in 1975, and was fitted with a semi-automatic transmission (stick-shift) coupled to a 2 litre engine via a torque converter and hydraulic clutch. 4WD was achieved through extensive modifications to the front beam and floor area to accommodate a friction diff lock and drive shafts. Despite extensive testing and a demonstration alongside the Audi Iltis launched in 1978, Volkswagen made no firm commitment to put the all terrain Kombi into production.
