Volkswagen California Returns as a Spacious PHEV Campervan

The all-new Volkswagen California breaks cover as a spacious and luxury plug-in hybrid campervan.

The Volkswagen California is making a comeback, and this time around, this renowned campervan returns with bigger and more luxurious space, plus a built-in tent top across all trim levels. Based on the T7 California concept previewed last year, the new T7-gen California comes with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version for the first time.

Besides both the petrol and diesel ICE versions, the new California also comes with a PHEV powertrain.

Starting with the full-ICE models, the California gets the same 2.0-litre 4-cyl petrol and diesel mills used on the Multivan that make 201 HP and 148 HP, respectively. Meanwhile, the new 1.4-litre 4-cyl PHEV model gets a higher total system output of 241 HP, with said model capable of towing loads at up to 2,000 KG.

Although VW has yet to reveal the California PHEV’s all-electric range, its concept twin boasts an EV-only range of 40 KM, so we can expect the production version to at least match said figure.

In case the built-in tent top is not enough, you can also get the optional awnings on both side of the campervan.

As we mentioned earlier, each and every variant of the new California now comes standard with a pop-up roof tent that offers a comfortable sleeping area for two, featuring a large aperture and side windows with mosquito netting. Besides the tent, the California is also offered with optional awnings that can be installed on either side of the van, creating two outdoor living spaces once its dual-sided sliding doors are opened.

Inside, the baseline California Beach variant gets a standard three-row, six-seater layout, while the higher-spec models get rotating front seats as standard, allowing you to transform your cabin into multiple settings, including dining, bedrooms, and more. Additionally, some of California’s cabin functions, like the lights, can be adjusted via a dedicated control panel at the C-pillar, which can also be connected to your smartphone for more convenience.

Opting for the Beach Tour variant adds a dedicated 40 Ah LiFePo camping battery to the campervan, while the higher-spec Beach Camper variant comes with a compact mini kitchen with a dedicated single-burner stove and a cutlery drawer, both of which can be accessed via the tailgate. 

If cooking while camping is your thing, then you might opt for the California Coast model, which comes with a kitchenette with cabinets and a sink, plus a 28-litre water tank. On top of that, the model also gets a secondary camper battery and a built-in fridge—all at the expense of the third-row seat.

Meanwhile, the range-topping California Ocean gets the same equipment as the Coast variant, plus some additional luxury amenities like heated seats, an auxiliary air conditioner, and a more premium upholstery material for the cabin.

As of now, Volkswagen has yet to reveal the prices for the new VW California campervan, with its pre-sales set to commence later in June this year, followed by its first deliveries later in the second half of 2024. Additionally, VW has also remained tight-lipped about the availability of the new California in other international markets, with this campervan set to be a hit in its native European market.