The Volkswagen California: turn a British holiday into an adventure
The iconic camper van’s latest evolution is the perfect way to explore the UK – and is now more practical, comfortable and versatile than ever...
There has never been a better time to enjoy a holiday in the UK. With beautiful forests, epic mountains and enchanting coasts the UK has some of the world’s most dramatic and diverse scenery, and there’s no easier way to explore it all than with the Volkswagen California – the stylish and comfortable camper van that turns every road trip into an adventure.
The California’s go-anywhere independence gives you true freedom to shape your holiday. Fancy exploring the depths of the New Forest? How about ascending the heights of the Scottish Highlands? Want to take in a sunset BBQ on the Isle of Skye, or wake to sunrise over Bamburgh Beach? Or maybe you want to head to Europe? Wherever there's a suitable place to camp, with the Volkswagen California you get to pick the view.
Now, Volkswagen’s iconic camper van is even better. The California 6.1 is much more than just a refresh of a well-proven formula. With even sharper standout design, and an enhanced interior that is even more versatile, it's the perfect way to explore the great British outdoors.
Your perfect hotel room, under the stars
The Volkswagen California 6.1 lets you explore your adventurous side in style. It features two sleeping areas – a rear bench that doubles as a reclining sofa in the day then folds into a bed that can sleep two people, as well as an extendable loft containing a fully sprung bed and panoramic openings that let you fall asleep under a million stars, and wake to awe-inspiring scenery.
It’s not just the sleeping arrangements that are hotel-esque. An in-built wardrobe with clothes rail and mirror – allied to a wealth of storage compartments – means your stay will be neither cramped nor messy. With the California, your nights can be as relaxing as your days are exciting.
Your restaurant, your menu
No holiday is complete without great food and a great place to eat it. With the Volkswagen California 6.1's sleek and practical fitted kitchen, you have both.
Two large floor-level compartments offer plenty of room for cooking gear and ingredients, while a 25-litre fresh-water tank and a 42-litre coolbox means food stays fresh and chilled. A flexible worktop delivers plenty of space to prepare your food, while the two-burner gas stove (with a maximum power of up to 1800W) allows for endless meal opportunities.
Stowable camping furniture – with chairs that fit in the rear tailgate, and a table that slots into the sliding door – give you the option of dining out under the sun or stars. Finally, the stainless-steel sink with removable bowl will make washing up quick and simple, so you can get on with the rest of your day.
For some inspiring ideas for great British holidays, check out Volkswagen’s guide to the best camper van destinations here.
A real home from home
The Volkswagen California 6.1 has one more trick up its sleeve. Simply manoeuvre the folding rear bench on its floor-mounted rail system and swivel round the driver and passenger seat to create a cosy living space – perfect for putting your feet up and chilling out, or maybe for bringing everyone together for a board game.
Integrated blinds on the windows provide privacy and shade, while the parking heater let you set the perfect temperature. The California 6.1 also boasts plenty of USB sockets to keep your electronics charged.
The new full-colour overhead digital touchscreen console lets you control key features – including measuring the incline of the vehicle, the pop-up roof on the range-topping California Ocean and the interior heating.
Reach your destination in style
Although the Volkswagen California 6.1 offers all the comfort and convenience of a home from home, it doesn’t feel ‘big’ to drive.
Just under 5m in length, 2.3m in width and with a low 2m roof height, it’s a perfect fit for narrow country roads or tight seaside streets, as well as being incredibly easy to move in a cramped campsite or car park – especially with hands-free automatic Park Assist or Side Protection sensors that warn if you’re getting too close to other cars, obstacles or pedestrians. Trailer Assist lends a helping hand moving towed loads.
From the commanding driving seat there’s all the style, technology and smartphone connectivity you expect in a Volkswagen – including a high-res Digital Cockpit (standard on the Ocean trim), which lets you share key navigation, music and hands-free phone call info from the central touchscreen, positioning it directly in front of you.
The California’s 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine and smooth seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox – available with 148bhp (150PS) or 196bhp (199PS) – is powerful enough to carry a full family and lots of luggage, while the wealth of driving aids – including Adaptive Cruise Control, Active Lane Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition and Crosswind Assist – take the stress out of driving and help keep you safe.
If you really like to head off the beaten track, the ability to choose 4MOTION all-wheel-drive with an optional differential lock and Hill Descent Control provides excellent traction on even the most slippery surfaces.
Go super-size with the Grand California
The Volkswagen California 6.1 is perfect for most epic family adventures, but if you want to take camping to the next level, the Grand California is the vehicle for you.
More of a compact motorhome than a traditional camper van, it’s available as a six-metre-long Grand California 600 – with a double downstairs bed and an optional over-cab bed for two kids. Instead of an over-cab sleeping area, the larger Grand California 680 boasts a longer downstairs bed, making it perfect for couples looking for more space.
Both models include a large feature-packed kitchen and living area, as well as a full wet room with shower, sink and toilet. Even better, until the end of 2020 the Grand California is available with great offers – including free factory options worth up to £2000, four free services, a four-year extended warranty and four years of roadside assistance cover. It’s the perfect excuse to supersize your camper van ambition.
So, whether you’re enjoying the freedom of the Volkswagen California 6.1 or going big with the Grand California – whatever your adventure, there’s a California camper van for you.
Read more: VW California review
Please note: Certain Volkswagen California 6.1 and Grand California features are only available on selected trims. Terms and conditions apply on any offers. Please ask your Volkswagen Van Centre sales team for more information.
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