The California embodies the spirit of the 1960s Volkswagen Type 2 campervan and has since become an icon of outdoor living. The first generation of the Volkswagen California, the T3, launched in 1988 and has gradually transformed in to the fantastic camper we know today.
This year Volkswagen are celebrating the California's 35th anniversary milestone, marking a journey of many unforgettable adventures for VW California fans.
The Volkswagen California History
Back in the late 1980s, the Volkswagen team wanted to recreate the spirit of the VW Type 2 campervan, but with more power and better technology. The California was launched in 1988 in Europe, and since then, it has gone through many design changes, technology upgrades and has become more reliable. Today, the Volkswagen California remains an all-time favourite for outdoor enthusiasts, weekend warriors, and road trippers alike.
The first-generation California was based on the T3 Transporter, featuring a pop-up roof, a foldable bed, and a sink. The second generation, released in 1991, saw major improvements in technology, with the introduction of upgraded engines and amenities such as an oven, a fridge, and a stove. The third generation, released in 2003, was built on the T5 Transporter, featuring a more refined body, advanced driving assistance systems, and a more efficient engine.
The T6.1 - Today’s California
The most recent California, the T6.1, was introduced in 2015 and came with even more upgrades, including a larger pop-up roof, a comfier bed, better sound insulation, and an array of driver assistance features. The van also comes with a swivel dining table and a well-designed kitchen, making it a real home on the road.
One of the most significant selling points of the Volkswagen California is its versatility. The van can be used for a wide range of outdoor activities, including surfing, hiking, camping, and even kayaking. Its compact size makes it easy to manoeuvre, while its spacious cargo area provides ample room for all your gear. Plus, choose from standard diesel or electric drivetrain options and All-Wheel Drive. It's a vehicle that's ready to take on whatever the road throws your way.
Current Volkswagen California Range
Volkswagen California Beach Tour
Introducing the Volkswagen California Beach T6.1 - your ultimate adventure companion. With its compact yet spacious design, this camper ensures your travels are both enjoyable and hassle-free. Whether you're driving, relaxing, or sleeping, the California Beach T6.1 has got you covered.
Inside, you'll find a generous interior with enough room for the whole family. Comfortably seat up to five passengers, with the option to accommodate six or seven. Stretch out and make the most of your journey. Plus, there's ample storage space for all your adventure gear. Store your belongings securely in the lockable compartment under the passenger seat or the large storage area in the back.
But that's not all - the California Beach T6.1 also features a stowable fold-out mini-kitchen. Equipped with a convenient single gas hob, cooking on the go has never been easier. Experience the ultimate combination of convenience and comfort with the Volkswagen California Beach T6.1. Get ready to embark on unforgettable adventures.
Volkswagen California Ocean T6.1
The California Ocean is a flexible camper van with an upmarket cabin that makes travelling, relaxing and sleeping as enjoyable and simple as possible. Crammed with features, the California ensures that life on the road is never dull.
Ocean is the higher trim of the two available with the California, bringing high-end touches such as a powered pop-up roof, a fully functioning kitchen with gas stove, sink and coolbox, and an auxiliary heater. If you want the most amount of home comforts, this is definitely the specification to opt for.
Read more about the differences between the California Ocean and Beach
Volkswagen Grand California 680
The Grand California is the largest and most premium model in the California range, but it still takes the little luxuries into account. With the spacious interior of the California and the reliable chassis of the Crafter, the Grand California is built to tackle even bigger adventures.
Inside the Grand California, you'll find ample space to bring all the comforts of home on your journey. This versatile vehicle features beds for two adults and two children, allowing everyone to stretch out and relax. The living space is designed with your comfort in mind, complete with a large dining table and swivelling front seats for easy maneuverability.
Step inside the Grand California and be greeted by a sense of brightness and space. The white surfaces throughout create an airy atmosphere, which is further enhanced if you choose the panoramic skylight option. Get ready to embark on your next adventure with the ultimate camper van, the Grand California. Don't miss out on the unparalleled freedom and comfort it has to offer.