Discover the 2024 VW California Camper: Bigger and Smarter

What is it?

Volkswagen has unveiled the latest iteration of its beloved California campervan, boasting significant upgrades in size, technology, and engine options, including a hybrid for the first time. This new model, based on the VW Multivan, aims to enhance the camping experience while maintaining practicality for everyday use.

What’s new?

The 2024 California is longer and wider than its predecessor, providing more interior space without increasing height, ensuring easy access to car parks. One of the standout features is the addition of a left-hand sliding door, designed with the UK market in mind. This extra door not only facilitates safer roadside exits but also expands the living space, allowing for a tent on one side and an awning on the other, creating a versatile three-zone living area.

Inside, the California offers a reimagined kitchen area integrated into a fold-out system to accommodate the new door. The kitchen includes a gas hob, sink, and a refrigerator accessible from both inside and outside the vehicle, enhancing convenience for outdoor cooking.

Engine options and Specifications

Volkswagen has introduced a hybrid powertrain option for the first time in the California lineup. The plug-in hybrid combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 245hp. It offers the ability to drive up to 56 miles on electric power alone. Additionally, traditional petrol and diesel engines are available, with the 150hp TDI diesel and the 204hp TSI petrol ensuring a range of choices for different driving preferences.

Despite the addition of the hybrid system, Volkswagen decided not to use the hybrid battery to power camping amenities. Instead, the vehicle features separate batteries to ensure that essential camping functions are always available.

Trim Levels

The California is available in three main trim levels: Beach, Coast, and Ocean. Each trim offers a different level of amenities and comforts:

Beach: The entry-level trim, including a pop-up roof and basic camping functions.

Coast: Adds more built-in amenities such as a fully equipped kitchenette with a sink and cabinets.

Ocean: The top-tier trim, featuring plusher furnishings, automatic air conditioning, and enhanced interior lighting.

Pricing and Availability

While exact pricing details are not yet confirmed, it is expected that the new California will start at a price higher than the outgoing model, likely exceeding £60,000. Pre-orders will begin in June 2024, with deliveries expected by the end of the year.

Practical Features of the New Volkswagen California Camper

The 2024 Volkswagen California Camper is packed with practical features designed to enhance the camping experience and daily usability. Here are some highlights:

Enhanced Living Space

One of the standout features is the inclusion of two sliding side doors, which is a first for the California range. This design not only facilitates easier entry and exit but also creates a versatile three-zone living area. This configuration allows users to set up a tent on one side and an awning on the other, significantly expanding the usable living space around the campervan. This is a major improvement over previous models, which had only one sliding door.

Reimagined Kitchen Area

The kitchen area in the new California has been cleverly redesigned to incorporate more functionality without sacrificing space. Positioned adjacent to the sliding door, the kitchen includes a gas hob and sink, making outdoor cooking more convenient. Additionally, the fridge is accessible from both inside and outside the vehicle, a feature borrowed from the larger Grand California model. This external access to the fridge is particularly handy when spending time outside the van.

Flexible Seating and Sleeping Arrangements

The new California offers highly flexible seating arrangements. The removal of the manual handbrake in favor of an electric parking brake has freed up space between the driver’s and front passenger’s seats, allowing for more movement and adjustable seating. The rear passenger area features interchangeable individual seats that can be configured to provide additional sleeping space or to accommodate long items like surfboards.

Advanced Technology and Smart Camping Features

Volkswagen has integrated a suite of digital features to enhance the camping experience. The California App, along with new in-car apps and a camper control unit with a 5-inch touch display, allows users to control various functions such as climate control, ambient lighting, and the auxiliary heater. These features ensure that the interior environment is comfortable and customizable, whether parked at a campsite or on the road.

Improved Accessibility and Storage

Storage has been thoughtfully integrated throughout the campervan. New compartments and a redesigned kitchenette layout ensure that essentials are within easy reach and that outdoor and indoor spaces are maximized for functionality. This includes exterior-access storage compartments, which are ideal for quick access to frequently used items.

Verdict

The 2024 Volkswagen California Camper represents a notable evolution in the campervan market, blending enhanced practicality with modern technological advancements. With its increased interior space, dual sliding doors, and hybrid powertrain options, the new California offers significant improvements over previous models. The reimagined kitchen layout, flexible seating, and advanced digital features cater to both camping enthusiasts and those seeking a versatile vehicle for everyday use.

While the addition of a hybrid engine marks a step forward in terms of eco-friendly driving, it’s important to note that the hybrid system does not power the camping amenities, which rely on separate batteries. This separation ensures that essential functions remain operational, highlighting Volkswagen’s thoughtful approach to design.

In conclusion, the new California Camper delivers on its promise of increased comfort and functionality. However, as with any major purchase, potential buyers should carefully consider their specific needs and compare the California with other options in the market to ensure it meets their requirements. For those interested in the latest in campervan technology and design, the 2024 California is certainly worth a closer look.