Volkswagen California
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a campervan that doesn’t compromise on everyday usability? The Volkswagen California might be exactly what you need. This versatile campervan blends practical family transport with genuine camping capability, offering a unique solution for those who want one vehicle to handle both school runs and weekend adventures. It’s the perfect choice for families seeking freedom without the complexity of towing a caravan.

What sets the California apart from conversion vans is its factory-built quality and thoughtful design. Every element has been engineered specifically for camping life, from the pop-up roof to the integrated kitchen. The ride quality and driving experience feel more like a premium MPV than a traditional van, making daily driving comfortable and refined. Unlike aftermarket conversions, you get Volkswagen’s full warranty and dealer support network.

The California transforms from a five-seat family car into a four-berth camper in minutes. Its clever interior layout maximises space without feeling cramped, while the kitchen facilities are genuinely practical for real camping. Yes, it costs significantly more than a standard MPV, but you’re getting two vehicles in one. For families who value spontaneous adventures and quality engineering, the California offers an unmatched blend of versatility and camping capability.

How Does the Volkswagen California Drive?

The California is built on Volkswagen’s Multivan platform, giving it car-like driving characteristics that set it apart from traditional van-based campervans. The range of engines includes efficient diesel options and newer petrol units, all designed for smooth, refined performance. The 2.0-litre TDI diesel remains popular for its strong torque and excellent fuel economy, making it ideal for laden camping trips and long-distance touring.

Where the California truly impresses is in its road manners. The steering is precise and well-weighted, making it surprisingly easy to place accurately on narrow country roads. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control, soaking up road imperfections while remaining stable when fully loaded with camping gear and passengers. Wind noise is well-controlled even with the pop-up roof, and the overall refinement makes long journeys genuinely pleasant rather than endured.

Inside the Volkswagen California: Comfort & Features

Step inside and you immediately notice the quality that separates the California from budget conversions. The dashboard and front cabin are lifted directly from Volkswagen’s passenger car range, featuring high-quality materials and intuitive controls. The digital infotainment system includes smartphone integration, making it easy to plan routes and stay connected on camping trips. Everything feels solidly built and designed to withstand years of family adventures.

The seating arrangement is genuinely versatile, accommodating five passengers in comfort for daily driving. The rear bench converts into a double bed, while the pop-up roof provides additional sleeping space for two more. Storage is cleverly integrated throughout, with numerous cubbies and compartments for camping essentials. The kitchen area includes a two-burner gas hob, sink, and decent-sized fridge, making meal preparation genuinely practical rather than a compromise.

The Volkswagen California succeeds brilliantly at being two very different vehicles in one package. As a daily driver, it offers the comfort and refinement of a premium MPV with excellent build quality and car-like driving manners. As a campervan, it provides genuine four-person accommodation with practical cooking and storage facilities. The factory-built quality sets it apart from aftermarket conversions.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Volkswagen California Expensive to Run?

As a premium campervan, the California commands premium running costs, but they’re reasonable considering its dual-purpose nature. The diesel engines deliver impressive fuel economy, typically achieving 35-40 mpg in real-world mixed driving. This efficiency becomes particularly valuable on long camping trips where fuel costs can quickly mount up. Insurance costs are moderate for the campervan class, though higher than a standard MPV.

The main financial consideration is the substantial purchase price, which reflects the California’s factory-built quality and comprehensive equipment. However, this premium pays dividends in reliability and residual values, with well-maintained examples holding their value exceptionally well. Servicing costs follow Volkswagen’s standard passenger car rates, and the widespread dealer network means support is readily available. For those considering car finance, the California’s strong residual values make it attractive to lenders.

Volkswagen California Practicality & Boot Space

For a vehicle that doubles as a campervan, the California is remarkably practical as everyday transport. With the rear bench in place, it easily accommodates five passengers with generous head and legroom. The boot space is adequate for daily needs, though obviously reduced compared to a standard MPV due to the kitchen installation. The sliding doors on both sides make access easy in tight car parks, while the high roofline ensures comfortable entry and exit.

Where the California truly shines is in its camping versatility. The pop-up roof extends the interior space dramatically, providing standing room and additional sleeping accommodation. Storage is thoughtfully distributed throughout, with dedicated spaces for camping chairs, outdoor equipment, and personal belongings. For families seeking one vehicle to handle both daily duties and holiday adventures, the California offers an compelling solution compared to other used Volkswagen cars.

The Volkswagen California stands out in the campervan market by successfully combining everyday practicality with genuine camping capability. It packages sophisticated engineering, premium build quality, and thoughtful design into a vehicle that excels at multiple roles. While the initial cost is substantial, you’re essentially buying two vehicles in one, backed by Volkswagen’s reliability and dealer network.

You choose the California because you want camping freedom without compromise. Its car-like driving experience, quality interior, and clever space utilisation make every journey enjoyable, whether heading to the shops or the Scottish Highlands. It’s perfectly suited for families who value adventures but don’t want the hassle of trailers or the limitations of budget conversions. For those seeking a premium campervan that works as well on Monday morning as Friday evening, the California remains the benchmark.