The demise of the SEAT Alhambra signals the beginning of a new era for Volkswagen Group - an era where minivans are no longer part of the company's portfolio. The Spanish model was built at the AutoEuropa plant in Palmela, Portugal but after just two generations, it was recently discontinued. The future doesn't look brighter for the mechanically-related Volkswagen Sharan, which will remain in production only until the end of the year. 

The days of the smaller, Golf-based Touran are also numbered. The model will remain available for the next year or two but will eventually be retired from the Wolfsburg-based brand's range. With the Tiguan Allspace offering similar cabin space but a more appealing SUV shape, Volkswagen believes there's no need for a new Touran. In addition, one of the marque's upcoming electric models is also seen as an indirect successor to the multi-purpose vehicle.