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The Volkswagen California has developed a cult following, becoming the most-wanted modern campervan for legions of enthusiasts. Based on the VW Transporter and boasting an ingenious interior design, impressive build quality and Volkswagen’s famed campervan history, it is a compelling choice.
What makes the Volkswagen California special is that, unlike many of its rivals, all the conversion work is done in-house by Volkswagen. The Ford Transit Custom Nugget and Mercedes-Benz V-Class Marco Polo, for example, are both made by third-party companies.
In fact, most of the VW California’s competition comes from within Volkswagen. The gigantic Volkswagen Grand California is available for those who need more space, with the compact Volkswagen Caddy California is suited to staycations on a smaller scale.
If you are looking to buy or lease a Volkswagen California, we have all the details you need. Take a look at a VW California for sale on heycar to discover just what’s on offer.
The Volkswagen California has an almost unbeatable heritage behind it, and the latest model has been around since 2015, but does not rest on its laurels. With more technology and very clever storage solutions, the latest facelifted California – introduced in 2019 – proves why it has achieved such legendary status.
The VW California neat packaging solutions include a pair of folding chairs hidden in the huge rear tailgate, along with a folding table stored within the sliding side door. An integrated touchscreen to control the heater and interior lights is useful, and can be operated from the pop-up roof bed.
The overall level of standard equipment is impressive, with features like air conditioning and cruise control fitted across the model range. As the most expensive version, the Volkswagen California Ocean really packs in the extras, with a rear-view camera, wardrobe and even a complete fitted kitchen.
Out on the open road, it’s worth remembering the VW California is based on a Volkswagen van. This means a high driving position, but also handling that is aimed at comfort rather than driving excitement. The pair of diesel engines on offer are both combined with an automatic gearbox, which suits the long-range cruising nature of the Volkswagen California.
The extra weight of all the camping equipment, plus the folding canvas roof overhead, means a measured approach to cornering is needed. But who needs to drive fast if you’re on holiday, right?
The Volkswagen California continues to have a strong following from enthusiasts, and the latest T6.1 version does nothing to change that. Compared to third-party-converted campervans, the VWCalifornia is in another league when it comes to clever design and attention to detail.
Although buying or leasing a Volkswagen California may seem expensive, it does deliver good value for money. It easily matches the build quality of the rival Mercedes-Benz V-Class Marco Polo, and comes with a comprehensive level of equipment that includes almost everything you need (even the kitchen sink if you opt for the Ocean model).
Factor in the ability to drive it everyday if needed, and the Volkswagen California is the true king of the campsite.
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Value for money doesn’t really come into it when you are choosing a Volkswagen California as it is a pretty pricey endeavour regardless of which one you go for. On that basis, there is a strong argument to throw caution to the wind and just go for the one that you want the most and that comes with more kit.
That said, there isn’t really a strong reason to head for the most powerful engine as the 150PS diesel version will take on everything that you choose to throw at it in terms of carrying the Volkswagen California’s bulk and the extra luggage you load it up with. If you plan on winter camping, or heading onto more inaccessible camping spots then the 4WD version might be worth a look, but otherwise keep it basic on that front.
The Volkswagen California’s exterior dimensions are:
The Volkswagen California’s boot space is:
How much you'll pay in Vehicle Excise Duty on your California depends a lot on when it was first registered. The rules for VED (better known as road tax) changed from 1 April 2017, and Californias registered after then will pay a flat rate of £570/year for five years from their second year of tax. This is because they attract a surcharge levied on vehicles costing more than £40,000 when new. After five years, the rate drops back to the standard flat rate, which is currently £180 a year.
Californias registered before April 2017 are charged according to their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. They'll cost you £240, £290 or £320 a year, depending on the model you go for.
Although not the quickest vehicle on the road, the Volkswagen California is still large, desirable and quite expensive to buy. This sees insurance ratings start at group 26 (out of 50) for the entry-level VW California 6.1 Beach Camper, with the Beach Tour in the same bracket. Ocean versions begin at insurance group 29, with the more powerful 2.0 TDI 204 4Motion in group 37.
Read our full Volkswagen California review
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What is the average mileage for Volkswagen California ?
8746
How many Volkswagen California cars are available for sale?
59