Review: Volkswagen California
The Volkswagen campervan is an icon of the 1960s and many models in psychedelic livery were often to be seen being driven along the hippy trail. Of course the image of the VW campervan has changed much since those days, but it is kind of appropriate that the latest version of this vehicle is called the California.
The California Volkswagen California can seat and sleep up to four people. It has a pop-up roof sleeping space and can sleep two in the passenger section. And of course you get all that extra equipment that you would expect in a campervan such as a stove and a kitchen sink. There is even a compartment for a refrigerator unit. The living space also has double glazed windows and blackout curtains.
There is a huge amount of storage space for all your camping kit and your clothes. There is a large fresh water tank and a waste disposal tank and you can extend your living space with an awning that attaches to the tailgate where there are also two folding chairs.
The California is powered by a five-cylinder 2.5-litre TDI diesel engine which is available in two versions giving either 130 bhp or 174 bhp. The van comes with either two or four wheel drive and there are manual and automatic sex speed versions available. As you might expect this is not a power vehicle; it will take you around 16 seconds to reach 60; but once you get there cruising comfortable and peaceful. Air conditioning is standard and there are many little extras such as electric windows, sat nav, and cruise control.
If you enjoy driving a van, then you will enjoy driving the Volkswagen California. It has many safety features and has the excellent reliability associated with VW campers.
The Volkswagen campervan is of course a lifestyle vehicle and for many drivers it is their second car. If you like the outdoor life and the feeling of freedom that this type of vehicle promises, then this vehicle ticks all the boxes.