CALIFORNIADreamin'
Volkswagen has unveiled the new California campervan – here’s your first look at a new take on a classic
Words ❚ Peter Vaughan
NEW CAMPERVANS
It first appeared as a concept last summer – now the new-generation VW California campervan has made its debut in production form and the first deliveries are promised to arrive later this year.
The new model introduces innovations such as sliding doors on both sides, an optional hybrid drivetrain and a touchscreen control panel in the living area. But the biggest news, perhaps, is that the new California is, for the very first time, in no way related to the Transporter van. Instead, the new campervan is based on the Multivan MPV – a passenger car.
As previously, a range of California Beach, Coast and Ocean models will be available. Prices have not been announced but expect an increase over the outgoing T6.1 variants, which range from £61,642 to £81,208 (before adding options).
REINVENTING A BEST-SELLER
The California is the world’s best-selling campervan, with over 280,000 units built so far, from the first T3 models of the 1980s through T4, T5 and T6 to the T6.1 that has just gone out of production. All versions of the new California come with a pop-up roof featuring a front window and large front opening, as well as two additional side windows (all with mosquito nets).
Also new are individual back seats instead of a rear bench seat. As the seats slide or remove individually, it is now possible to carry bikes inside.
Last but not least, all new Californias from the Beach Tour upwards are also equipped with a brand-new campervan control unit in the C-pillar. All the campervan's functions can be controlled and checked through this display. Another novel detail is that all the LED and background lighting in the camper's interior can be switched off at the same time with a brief double tap on one of the numerous light switches.
All new Californias will be built on the long version of the Multivan, which is longer and wider than the T6.1. The new model is 5.17m long (versus 4.90m), while width increases from 1.90m to 1.94m. However, at 1.99m, its height is identical to its predecessor, which means it is again able to go into many height-restricted car parks.
A wide range of driver assist systems is available for the new California, including oncoming vehicle braking when turning function to Travel Assist, which offers semi-automated driving.
Carrying on a tradition of duo-tone paint finishes,
