Hot Wheels PREMIUM Boulevard 17 Kool Kombi

The Hot Wheels Kool Kombi with catalog number GJT86 is a 1:64 scale collector's model from the premium line, released in the Hot Wheels Boulevard series as #17. The model is aimed at adult collectors, fans of classic Volkswagens, and enthusiasts of surf culture, hot rods, and the Mooneyes brand.

The Kool Kombi casting was designed by Tony Martino and debuted in 2013 in the HW Showroom: HW Hot Trucks series. The casting depicts the first generation of the Volkswagen Type 2 with a split windshield, in a heavily modified, shortened "Shorty" van version: with an open tailgate and surfboards protruding from it, a massive stinger exhaust pipe, and two small wheelie bars at the rear to protect the shortened vehicle from tipping over. It is worth noting that the casting was originally called the Volkswagen Kool Kombi; however, the "Volkswagen" name was only used in the first five mainline releases, after which it was dropped. The GJT86 unit comes from 2020, is yellow, decorated with flames and the Mooneyes logo, and features an unpainted metal chassis, clear windows, a white interior, and gray DISH wheels. The country of manufacture is Thailand.

The model was released in the colors of Mooneyes—a legendary brand of hot rod accessories originating from the Californian company Moon Equipment Company, founded by Dean Moon and currently operated from Japan. The characteristic yellow, the eye logo, and the disc wheel covers are hallmarks of this brand, which is deeply rooted in American custom culture and the surfing scene.

The prototype is the first-generation Volkswagen Type 2, the classic "bus" with a split windshield, produced since 1950 using Beetle components. It was powered by a rear-mounted, air-cooled boxer engine with an output ranging from approximately 25 to over 40 hp, transmitted to the rear axle. Shortening the body, as depicted in this casting, is a classic modification from the custom scene—when one unit was shortened, a stretched limousine version was usually created as well.

The collector value of this release stems from the limited production runs of the Boulevard line, the unpainted metal chassis, and the licensed Mooneyes livery. Classic Volkswagens are among the most sought-after Hot Wheels castings, and versions featuring well-known brands disappear from the market quickly.

FAQ

In which series was the Hot Wheels Kool Kombi GJT86 released?
It is Hot Wheels Boulevard #17 from 2020.

What does the Kool Kombi casting depict?
The casting depicts a shortened version of the Volkswagen Type 2 with a split windshield, featuring an open tailgate with surfboards, a stinger exhaust pipe, and rear wheelie bars.

What was the model originally called?
The first five releases in the mainline were named Volkswagen Kool Kombi; the "Volkswagen" prefix was later removed from the name.