- Volkswagen has unveiled a new generation of California campervans called the California 6.1.
- The new California is longer and wider than before, and all models now feature a pop-up roof and sliding doors on both sides. VW has also added a plug-in hybrid version.
- There are five trims to choose from: Beach, Beach Tour, Beach Camper, Coast, and Ocean, each offering a unique interpretation of the camper. However, neither will be sold in California or other parts of the United States.
The Volkswagen California isn’t sold in the United States, so forgive us if you’ve never heard of it. However, VW has been offering some form of camper van in Europe for over 20 years. Volkswagen is now completely overhauling its camper van, making the Westfalia, a spiritual successor to his pop-top, longer and wider than before, while also gaining some new technology. This model, called the California 6.1, is equipped with a pop-up roof and sliding rear doors on both sides on all trim levels.
The new California lineup includes five models: Beach, Beach Tour, Beach Camper, Coast, and Ocean, with each model offering a slightly different take on the pop-top camper. The Beach is the least expensive place in California. It has a manual top and can seat six people in a 2+2 configuration in the second and third rows.
Upgrading to the Beach Tour (and trims above it) introduces rotating front seats, pop-up roof lighting, sliding windows in the rear doors, and access to a new 5.0-inch control screen on the C-pillar . Passenger side. The new unit can control the van’s camping features, such as heating and lighting systems, and provide information about power and water levels.
The Beach Camper is configured to seat five people and apparently has a “very compact” mini-kitchen. The kitchen has a hob with a single gas burner, a cutlery drawer and additional storage space to hide small items that get in the way. The Coast model replaces passenger space with practical space. Features a 4-person layout, large kitchenette with cabinets, sink, refrigerator, and single burner stove. Upgrading to the flagship Ocean adds more luxurious interior materials, heated front seats, roof storage and auxiliary heating.
The updated California rides on the same platform as the long-wheelbase Volkswagen Multivan. It’s 10.6 inches longer and 1.6 inches wider than before, but it’s the same height as a traditional van. The new van has three powertrain options, all mated to an automatic transmission. There’s a standard gas-powered 2.0-liter four-cylinder powertrain, a diesel 2.0-liter four-pot option, and new to the California lineup, a plug-in hybrid option that combines an electric motor and 1.5-liter gasoline. engine.
VW says the new California will go on sale in June, with deliveries expected to begin by the end of the year. Unfortunately for our readers back home, Volkswagen has no plans to start selling the California in North America.
Jack Fitzgerald’s love of cars stems from his still-unwavering addiction to Formula One.
After working briefly as a dealer for a local dealership group during college, he decided to pursue a career as an automotive writer, figuring he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn’t afford. Did. By shadowing professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he traveled the state looking for stories about the auto industry and later landed his dream job at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. car and driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of the 2010 Volkswagen Golf.
