Volkswagen California
Expert Rating:
Introduction
With its specification list including a kitchen sink, two double beds and a cooker, the VW California is a vehicle you can really live in. We reckon it's about the coolest car (or van) we've ever driven.
What are its rivals?
There are a huge number of van-based camper conversions around, though the California is the only one we know of officially sold by the company that makes the base vehicle. Obvious rivals include campers based on Ford's Transit and any other van of similar size. You'll need to go to a specialised dealer to pick up one of them though, while the California can be bought and serviced at almost any VW dealer.
How does it drive?
Remember that the California is a van first and a house second and it's difficult not to be impressed with the way it drives. Power comes from a 2.5-litre turbodiesel that, while a bit noisy, is lusty and willing. There's four-wheel drive in this 4Motion model too, which is more useful in a wet camping field than it is on the road. The steering is light and accurate, the ride's firmness resulting in some rattling from all the kit you'll be hauling in the California's cupboards and drawers behind you. It does mean that it's actually remarkably roll-free in the bends though, bends you can typically see through and around thanks to the high seating position. The gearshift is slick and well positioned, the California surprisingly car-like to drive - despite its size.
What's impressive?
The California is a demonstration in smart interior packaging. The way VW has incorporated a fridge, cooker, sink and two big sleeping areas is impressive. Add lots of useful storage and the California is both clever and practical. Demonstrating VW's attention to detail is the brilliant use of the rear door to house a pair of deckchairs, these sliding into a zipped compartment out of the way when not in use.
There's a battery on board to provide power when you're not able to plug into a campsite's supply, it keeping the fridge cool and providing light. There's a heater too, which means even on cold nights you'll be snug.
The pop-up roof rises at the touch of a button, and there's lots of space up there for two to sleep comfortably. VW vans have always been cool and although the California doesn't have the retro charm of its split screen and bay window relatives it's still a hugely desirable vehicle.
What's not?
Getting up into the roof area to sleep can be a bit of a struggle, as can be turning around the front seats to face into the living area. The engine isn't the quietest diesel we've driven and the inclusion of four-wheel drive on the 4Motion model does impact on the economy - officially the California 4Motion returns 30.7mpg on the combined consumption cycle. It's a big vehicle meaning parking can be fraught if you've not opted for rear parking sensors.
The rear seat is rather flat for sitting on, and you'll need to be friendly with the passenger beside you whether sitting or sleeping on it. A fifth interior chair can be paid for, but it sits right in the middle of the cabin and needs removing if you're stopping to camp.
Should I buy one?
We'd have a California in a heartbeat. VW's Caravelle is a decent enough drive and hugely practical in the first place; adding beds, cupboards, a cooker, sink and fridge only makes it more appealing. One for all you wannabe hippies who can afford the £40,000 list price, the California is a seriously capable and cool vehicle.
