Volkswagen Unveils the Seventh-Generation California Camper Van
Volkswagen has recently announced the launch of its highly anticipated seventh-generation California camper van. The vehicle is set to hit the market in June, with deliveries expected to begin in the second half of the year. The new California model closely resembles the concept that was showcased by the German automaker in 2023.
One notable change in the design of the new California is that it is now based on the Volkswagen Multivan MPV, rather than the Transporter van. This means that it now sits on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB car architecture. The dimensions of the new model have also been adjusted, with a length of 5173mm and a width of 1941mm. Compared to its predecessor, it is 269mm longer and 39mm wider. However, the height remains the same at 1990mm.
The seventh-generation California introduces several new design and practicality features. For the first time, the camper van comes with two sliding doors as standard, one on each side of the vehicle. This allows for easier access to both sides of the van and enables the kitchen, which includes larger worktops, a hob, a coolbox, and a sink, to be accessible from outside. Optional awnings can also be fitted to either side of the van.
In terms of interior features, the new California boasts a new control unit with a 5.0-inch display. This control unit is located on the passenger-side C-pillar and allows users to raise the pop-up roof, adjust interior lighting, operate the fridge and heater, and check waste and water levels. These features can also be controlled through the driver’s smartphone and the touchscreen infotainment system.
One of the most significant updates in this generation of the California is the introduction of a plug-in hybrid powertrain option. While petrol and diesel engine choices will be available, this is the first time a Volkswagen camper van offers a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The PHEV variants come with Volkswagen’s 4Motion four-wheel-drive system and combine a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine with an electric motor and battery. Although specific details about the battery size and electric-only range have not been confirmed, it is expected to offer similar capabilities to last year’s concept, which had a 13kWh unit and a range of approximately 25 miles.
The California will be offered in five different specification levels: Beach, Beach Tour, Beach Camper, Coast, and Ocean. The entry-level Beach model is essentially a Multivan with a manual pop-up roof and six seats. The Beach Tour model features five seats that can be folded to form a bed, along with additional kitchen elements such as a single-ring gas cooker and a cutlery drawer. The Coast model has four seats and a larger, well-packaged kitchen with a fridge, cabinets, sink, and second camper battery. The range-topping Ocean model includes fabric seats made from recycled materials, an auxiliary air heater, climate control, and a roof-positioned storage box.
While Volkswagen has not yet released pricing details for the new California, it is expected that the new model will be priced higher than its predecessor, particularly the PHEV variants. The current sixth-generation California starts at £61,462 and goes up to £81,208 for the range-topping Ocean model with a 2.0-liter diesel engine and four-wheel drive. The Mercedes-Benz V-Class Marco Polo and Ford Transit Nugget, which are key rivals to the California, start at £83,490 and £76,027 respectively.
For those eagerly awaiting an electric version of the California, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles CEO Carsten Intra confirmed last year that an ID Buzz-based camper will be introduced in 2025. This electric model is expected to offer an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional combustion engine campervans.
In conclusion, the seventh-generation Volkswagen California camper van brings exciting updates and improvements to the iconic model. With its enhanced design, practicality features, and the introduction of a plug-in hybrid powertrain option, it offers a versatile and eco-friendly choice for camping enthusiasts. Although pricing details are yet to be confirmed, it is expected to be a highly sought-after vehicle in the market.
